State Cinemas: A Legacy of Entertainment in Nelson
State Cinemas stands as a pillar of entertainment and culture in Nelson, embodying both historical charm and modern cinematic innovation. As New Zealand’s largest independent cinema, it combines mainstream blockbusters with art house gems, offering a unique experience that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Mark Christensen is the Director of the cinema and has navigated decades of industry changes, always staying true to its core mission of delivering immersive, shared viewing experiences and entertainment to the community.
Built in 1936 by the Baird family and leased to Amalgamated Theatres, the cinema’s Art Deco design speaks to the golden age of film. Mark reflects, “The Art Deco architecture not only gives the building character but also connects us to an era when cinema was central to people’s lives. We’ve preserved this historical charm, enhancing it over the years to create a blend of nostalgia and contemporary comfort.” Today, State Cinemas is not just a place to watch movies; it’s a local landmark and a vibrant gathering place.
In the early 1990s, Christensen spearheaded a transformation that would set State Cinemas apart from others. Originally a single-screen theatre with around 900 seats, it was re-envisioned as a four-screen complex in 1992, marking Nelson’s first venture into the multiplex model. “People were sceptical,” Christensen recalls. “Some thought we’d never fill four screens in a town like Nelson, but the community proved them wrong. Our attendance numbers quickly surpassed projections, making us one of the highest attendance per-capita cinemas in New Zealand until the pandemic hit.”
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 era, State Cinemas adapted, leaning into its unique position as an independent cinema. With major studios halting blockbuster releases, State Cinemas embraced independent films and New Zealand-made productions, maintaining its role as a cultural touchstone in Nelson. “Indie films sustained us through the tough times,” Christensen explains. “We found that audiences appreciated the diversity and storytelling depth that independent cinema offers.”
As technology continues to evolve, State Cinemas has kept pace, incorporating state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment to create an unparalleled viewing experience. “Our main auditoriums are fitted with some of the best sound systems in the Southern Hemisphere,” says Christensen. “I attended the NZ premier of Top Gun: Maverick in Auckland’s newest cinema with a 36-channel Atmos system, but when I returned to Nelson, it sounded better here on our HPS4000 sound systems. People think that bigger cities have better theatres, but that’s not always true.”
State Cinemas offers more than just Hollywood films. Throughout the year, it hosts numerous international film festivals, including the French Film Festival, the British and Irish Film Festival, the Italian Film Festival, and the New Zealand International Film Festival, among others. “We’re proud to bring the world to Nelson,” says Christensen. “There’s something special about sitting down to watch a foreign film and feeling a part of something much larger. It enriches our cultural understanding and connects us globally.”
Reflecting on his journey, Christensen says, “My fascination with film grew over time. I initially got into entertainment through presenting live performance and theatre shows. But film is an extension of live performance and it also brings people together in a profound way. Whether it’s a big blockbuster or a small indie film, cinema offers a unique shared experience.” He notes that one of the joys of running State Cinemas is seeing audiences become engrossed in the magic of film. “In a darkened theatre, you’re truly immersed—unlike at home, where distractions are constant. It’s a total escape.”
Apart from film screenings, State Cinemas also provides a comprehensive entertainment experience with Stefano’s fully licensed Italian pizzeria, cafe and bar, offering everything from wine to authentic Italian pizza. In fact, State Cinemas was the first in New Zealand to introduce a cafe-bar model. Christensen remarks, “The idea was to create a comprehensive “evening out” experience, similar to a night out at the theatre. You can grab a pizza, enjoy a glass of wine, and then immerse yourself in a movie. It’s more than just going to the movies—it’s a social event.”
Reflecting on the community spirit of Nelson, Christensen shares, “Nelson has always been a place with big-city amenities and a small-town feel. We have world-class venues like the Theatre Royal, the Suter Art Gallery, and the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, and, of course, State Cinemas. I think we sometimes underestimate what we have here, but the community’s support for the arts and entertainment is strong.”
Looking ahead, Christensen is optimistic about the future of cinema, especially as Hollywood production picks up following recent industry strikes. He is excited about the return of more big releases, such as Gladiator II, Wicked, and Moana 2, which promise to draw audiences back in droves. “We are going from famine to feast,” he says. “with a packed schedule of new releases, there’s a renewed energy in the industry. After a period of uncertainty, it feels like we’re entering a renaissance for cinema.”
In a world where digital streaming continues to rise, State Cinemas remains committed to the authentic theatre experience. “Watching a film in a cinema is unmatched,” Christensen insists. “At home, you can pause, get distracted, or even turn it off. But here, you’re part of an immersive experience without distractions that only a cinema can offer. It’s why people still flock to concerts, and it’s why they still come to the movies. The magic of cinema endures.”
Ultimately, State Cinemas stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of shared storytelling. For Nelson residents and visitors alike, it offers not just movies but moments of connection, nostalgia, and excitement. Mark Christensen and his team are ready to welcome audiences into the next chapter of this cinematic journey, keeping the lights bright on Nelson’s giant cinema screens for generations to come.
For more information visit https://www.statecinemas.co.nz/now-playing
Explore the virtual tour at State Cinemas Nelson
This Post Has 0 Comments