Last updated October 2026
Step into Nelson’s city centre and discover State Cinemas Nelson, a long-established cinema complex that has entertained locals and visitors for decades.
Located at 91 Trafalgar Street, the venue offers a mix of mainstream blockbusters, independent films and local productions across nine screens. It operates as a locally owned independent cinema and remains a popular entertainment destination in the heart of Nelson. Online booking is available, and the complex includes accessibility features such as wheelchair access.
Practical Information
- Address
- 91 Trafalgar Street, Nelson
- Screens
- 9
- Ownership
- Locally owned independent cinema
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance and lift
- Booking
- Online via official website or phone (03) 548 3885 / (03) 548 8123
- Contact
- https://www.statecinemas.co.nz/
About State Cinemas Nelson
State Cinemas Nelson occupies a central position on Trafalgar Street in Nelson’s CBD. The complex provides a wide selection of films, including major releases, art-house titles and New Zealand productions, making it a key entertainment option for the region.
The cinema has operated for many years and has expanded over time to its current nine-screen configuration. It continues to serve as a community gathering place for film enthusiasts in Nelson.
Visitors can purchase tickets online or by phone. The venue maintains standard health and safety protocols and offers a convenient central location with nearby parking options.
History and Development
State Cinemas Nelson has been part of Nelson’s entertainment scene since the mid-1930s. Contemporary reports from 2011 noted that the cinema had reached approximately 75 years of operation by that time, having opened around Valentine’s Day with a screening of the film The 39 Steps.
Over the decades the single-screen theatre evolved into a multi-screen complex to meet changing audience demands and cinematic technology. This adaptation has allowed it to remain relevant while preserving its role as a local landmark.
The State Building
The cinema occupies the State building on the corner of Trafalgar and Halifax Streets. Designed by H. Francis Willis and built by James Baird, it opened in February 1936 as the State Chambers. It is an example of the Art Deco, or Art Moderne, style, with streamlined, stripped-back lines.
The building was first leased to Amalgamated Theatres and later became part of Hoyts Empire, owned by the Moodabe family. It then passed to Mike Schaab, a former projectionist, and is now owned by a Nelson-based partnership. It was redeveloped in 1992 and refurbished in 2012, and the original exterior has been kept. The Prow, Nelson’s local history site, records that the building has a Heritage B Historic Places Trust listing.
Facilities and Amenities
The nine screens feature modern projection and sound systems suitable for both standard and 3D presentations on selected screens. The central location makes it easy to combine a film with other activities in Nelson’s CBD.
Accessibility features include a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a lift serving upper screens. The cinema welcomes a broad range of patrons and maintains inclusive practices.
Where to Learn More
State Cinemas official website: Current session times, online ticket booking and cinema information.
Uniquely Nelson listing: Local directory details, contact information and visitor resources for Nelson.
Flicks.co.nz cinema page: Session times and additional booking options for State Cinemas Nelson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be booked online through the official State Cinemas website or via partner sites such as Flicks.co.nz.
Does the cinema offer discounts?
Discounted tickets are available for seniors, students and other groups. Current pricing and offers are listed on the official website.
What types of films are shown?
The cinema screens a mix of mainstream blockbusters, independent films, local New Zealand productions and occasional special events or festivals.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, State Cinemas Nelson provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a lift to upper screens.
Can I host a private event?
Enquiries about private screenings or venue hire can be made directly through the cinema’s contact channels listed on the official website.
Are there food and drink options?
Standard cinema refreshments are available. Visitors should check the venue for current café or bar offerings.
How do I find current session times?
Session times and coming attractions are published on the official website and local listings such as Uniquely Nelson.
Is parking available nearby?
The central CBD location offers access to nearby public parking options in Nelson.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.