Toitoi - Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre

Metaphorically, but also in the literal sense, Toitoi - Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre is at the cultural heart of Hastings and provides a gathering point for both visitors and locals alike. Spanning an entire city block, the Toitoi precinct is made up of seven different venues, each offering a diverse mix of performing arts and events for the community. The vibrant and stylish space is also graced by a number of hospitality and retail tenants, which only adds to the ambience and appeal.   

All events are exclusively catered for by Dish (except for those with cultural or religious requirements), and visitors to shows and events can expect a fully-stocked bar with tasty snacks and drinks that focus on local suppliers and recyclable packaging. Audiences are encouraged to share the love and visit the other hospitality businesses housed within the precinct, including Long Island Delicatessen, Cellar 495, Craft and Social, and Cedric’s, an intimate cocktail bar partial to some occasional live music.   

Toitoi’s journey started back in 2014, following the closure of the earthquake-prone Opera House and Municipal Building. Extensive community consultation occurred, and the overwhelming response was to restore and save these two Category 1 heritage buildings. Cue: the smart decision to future-proof the complex; resulting in the creation of a leading performing arts and events precinct. A staggered opening (thanks mostly to the pandemic) saw the entire venue open to the public from August 2022.   

Serving as a home and a host for the local and wider Aotearoa cultural community, Toitoi’s vision is to be the most vibrant and significant arts, culture and events facility in New Zealand. The wide variety of events and shows at Toitoi range from business breakfasts and award-winning theatre to the annual comedy festival, Laugh Your A** Off, and a newly added Kids’ Festival, launching in early 2024. Of course, local community events are also a mainstay — school productions, cultural celebrations and dance productions. And if you want to hire the venue for a wedding or a celebration of your own, enquiries are welcomed.