The funding was promised by Auckland Council in 2016. Photo: RNZ / Soumya Bhamidipati
The mayor of Auckland has reluctantly moved to re-commit $15 million in funding to restore the St James Theatre.
The historic theatre in the middle of Auckland's CBD has been in a state of disrepair since a fire in 2007.
The 1920s theatre has hosted some of the world's biggest acts including James Brown, Miles Davis and Joni Mitchell.
The funding was promised by Auckland Council in 2016 and has been confirmed again after a vote this evening.
Mayor Wayne Brown said he had mixed feelings about the project.
"Well I wouldn't have supported to original decision to commit public funding to St James, I am clear that the best chance we have to make a real difference to our mid-town right now is to get on with it.
"We can no longer accept the eyesore it has become and must make the best use of a difficult situation."
The exterior of the St James Theatre in Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Leonard Powell
Brown reiterated that the funding was only for the restoration, and the council wouldn't pay any operating costs.
Auckland's city centre business association head said the restoration will play a crucial role in renewing the area around it.
Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck said the group has been long-standing supporters of the theatre's restoration.
"There is a big opportunity with the City Rail Link aheead and really creating an outstanding arts and cultural precinct.
"So we're pretty excited - it's a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Beck said she foresees a renovated St James as a new tourist attraction for Auckland.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
