Reading Cinemas. Photo: Maxime Vasuta
The lights are on but nobody's home? Lit up signs on the derelict Reading Cinemas building in central Wellington has caused speculation on when it might reopen.
The cinemas complex on Courtenay Place had sat unused since it was closed due to earthquake risks in 2019.
In January it was announced that Primeproperty Group bought the site after a $32 million council deal spearheaded by Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau to buy land underneath the building fell through.
In recent weeks, Wellingtonians had noticed that the complex's large signs had been lit up, with many speculating online whether development was around the corner.
RNZ approached Primeproperty group and in a statement, it said that it had noticed "a little bit of chatter online about Reading having its lights on overnight".
Photo: Maxime Vasuta
The company said that it wasn't a sign of an imminent reopening.
"We are getting the right people through the venue to commence architectural and design work.
"Unfortunately, they left the lights on, which caused a little stir."
The statement said that Primeproperty Group was working hard to strengthen the building over the coming months and was working closely with Reading Cinemas to create a "new version of the venue that will excite and entice Wellingtonians".
"These things take time and a little more effort than turning the lights back on!"
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
