Accessibility

We are committed to guaranteeing that the magic of theatre remains financially accessible to a wider audience. Hāpai, CSC cardholders, Children (under 18), Students with ID, and Seniors (65+) are eligible for discounted prices. Hāpai Access Card holders can book a free seat for their essential companion, including guide dogs.

The Court Theatre provides accessible toilets on all three levels, each equipped with drop-down safety rails. Baby changing facilities are available in all accessible restrooms, making it easy for families to attend performances. Our Front of House team can guide you to the nearest facilities at any time during your visit.

The theatre has two ground-level entrances through sensor glass doors, giving easy access to the foyer. Public spaces are spread over three levels and connected by stairs and a lift, ensuring all areas—including bars, seating, and auditoria—are fully accessible. The Ground Floor houses the Box Office, the main Bar and Restaurant, accessible restrooms, and entry to the Stewart Family Theatre and Wakefield Family Front Room. Level 1 features The Bard bar, additional seating, accessible restrooms, and access to the Lower Balcony and mezzanine. Level 2 provides accessible restrooms and access to the Upper Balcony in the Stewart Family Theatre.

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in both auditoria. The Stewart Family Theatre accommodates four wheelchairs in the stalls, two in the lower balcony, and one in the upper balcony, with adjacent seats that can be removed for companions. The Wakefield Family Front Room can accommodate up to 50 wheelchairs on the ground floor and one on the mezzanine. Patrons are encouraged to use their own wheelchairs, though the theatre has two available for use on request.

Hāpai Access Card holders with a +1 symbol are entitled to a complimentary ticket for an essential companion to provide support during the performance. Assistance dogs are welcome, and a reserved seat is provided free of charge; we ask that dogs remain on the floor during shows. Box Office and Front of House staff are available to provide support with seating, queuing, or navigating the building.

Audio Description
For patrons with visual impairments, selected performances include pre-show touch tours and live audio descriptions via headphones by a trained audio describer, providing detailed narration of sets, costumes, and actor movements. Front of House staff can assist patrons in navigating signage and written information, with key directional signs also available in Braille.

Assisted Listening
For patrons with hearing impairments, a Wi-Fi-based audio streamer is used for assistive listening via the Wavecast app on your mobile device. This is available in the Stewart Family Theatre, Wakefield Family Front Room, and Rātā Foundation Studio.

New Zealand Sign Language Interpretation
Selected performances also offer real-time New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) interpretation with a trained NZSL interpreter.

Relaxed Performances are designed for patrons who benefit from a low-pressure environment, including those who are neurodiverse, have sensory sensitivities, or learning difficulties. Adjustments are made to a performance’s sound and lighting to create a welcoming environment for these patrons. This includes the freedom to move, make noise, and take breaks during the performance.

Communication-Friendly Performances provide additional support for patrons with communication challenges, ensuring theatre remains accessible to all.

While The Court Theatre does not have dedicated parking, mobility parking spaces are available nearby, and 10-minute drop-off zones are provided on Colombo and Gloucester Streets. Patrons planning a taxi pick-up after a performance are advised to pre-book, and our Box Office team can assist with arranging this. For more information, visit our Getting Here page.