The Civic (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is The Civic?
What makes it 69% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free on a lap, and parents find nursing rooms, change tables and pram parking, but buggies are barred inside seating and loud effects, darkness or long acts may unsettle an infant.
Positives:
- Family-friendly amenities: Free nursing rooms, baby-change tables and pushchair parking make visits smoother.
- Virtual planning tools: Use the complimentary online 3D tour to familiarise yourself with stroller routes.
Challenges:
- Long show durations: Mainstage performances run over two hours with limited break options.
- Pram storage limits: Prams must stay in designated parking outside the seating area; cannot be taken inside.
What is The Civic?
- A restored 1929 purpose-built theatre on Queen Street in central Auckland
- A grand auditorium featuring elaborate Indian palace–inspired architecture with Moorish garden and temple motifs
- A cultural landmark and one of Australasia’s premier venues designed to host operas, musicals, concerts and dramas
What is so special about The Civic for with baby?
- Infants under 2 sit free on lap tickets
- Moorish-style foyer open 60 minutes pre-show
- Free nursing rooms and change tables
- Online 3D tour to plan stroller routes
- Light café bites with highchair on request
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A short performance plus foyer visit and café break fits around a baby’s nap and feeding schedule.
Baby-Friendly Activities in The Civic
Book lap tickets for baby:
Reserve lap tickets for infants under 2 to sit on a caregiver’s knee.
Tip: Call the Box Office at least a week in advance to confirm lap-seat availability.
Explore the Moorish-style foyer:
Wander the foyer’s intricate carvings and starry ceiling before the show.
Tip: Arrive 60 minutes early to avoid crowds and give your baby space to move.
Use nursing and changing rooms:
Find baby-change tables and nursing rooms near Stalls Door B and Circle Door D.
Tip: Ask front-of-house staff on arrival for directions to the nearest facilities.
Plan with the 3D virtual tour:
Preview lifts, seating and restrooms online to map stroller-friendly routes.
Tip: Review the virtual map at home to reduce surprises during your visit.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Civic
- Choose weekday matinees: Opt for daytime shows on weekdays to avoid peak crowds and late schedules.
- Arrive early: Getting there 60 minutes before showtime helps you settle the baby and explore quietly.
- Request highchairs: Ask at Stark’s Café for a highchair or booster cushion when ordering snacks.
Reviews of The Civic
Kelly Avaiki
A beautiful place. We watched Kirk Franklin perform recently. It was an amazing experience. The Civic is such a beautiful iconic, historic building.
Richard Chen See
Beautiful, classic Art Deco style theatre. Great sound system and large stage house to accommodate most performance companies.
Padma Akula
I’ve just completed the 10AM Civic Tour led by James and warmly ushered by Katie. What an absolutely glorious experience. I say ‘performance’ by James because the tour itself unfolded like a beautifully crafted show. I loved every minute — the rich historical details, the humour, the storytelling. I would highly recommend this as a must-do cultural attraction for anyone wanting to experience Auc...
Michał Zegar
Kia Ora. Thanks do much for pleasant and enjoyable to cenimy seeing „A Christmas Carol” on the stage. I was enchanted with acting quality, plot Construction with so much humor in it and special effects in a wonderful atmosphere that makes me count the days down on the way to Christmas. PS. Thanks for letting me takę so many pictures after the show in this historical theatre. I’ve covered at about ...
Duncan Andrews
I recently visited the Civic to see Bill Bailey, and once again this iconic venue reminded me why I’ve always loved it over the years. The theatre may be small and old, but it is incredibly well maintained, full of character, and absolutely excellent in every way. The seating is extremely comfortable, with great views from all around the theatre, making it a truly enjoyable place to watch any act...
When is the best time to visit The Civic (Auckland, New Zealand)?
Book matinee shows during school holidays when the theatre is less crowded. Look for relaxed-session performances in festival seasons (e.g., October’s We The Young).
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult show tickets (2 @ NZD 55) | NZD 110 |
| Café snack & drink | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 130 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Civic
Address: Cnr of Queen Street &, 269-287 Wellesley Street West, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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