About
The Turner Centre is a multi-purpose community hub, conference facility and performing arts centre that serves the Far North region. It is managed by the KCT, whose vision for the Turner Centre is: “Te Ranga Toi Waka – To be the waka that weaves all of the arts together – for our community”.
Since opening in 2005, the Turner Centre has hosted over 2000 events – from kapa haka, cabaret and comedy to opera. With a theatre that seats 408 people and an events space that can host 970 people, The Turner Centre offers Northlanders the opportunity to experience locally-produced events and programmes and high-quality touring acts. We programme events and activities for all ages, cultures and interests, welcoming 30,000+ visitors annually, who come from all over Northland – from Kaitāia and Hokianga to Whangārei.
On June 1, 2023, ownership of The Turner Centre’s building was officially transferred to the Far North District Council (FNDC). Under the new agreement, the charitable company, The Centre At Kerikeri Limited, will continue to manage and operate the Turner Centre, focusing on delivering arts and cultural activities that benefit the community. This includes providing spaces for hire. Meanwhile, FNDC will be responsible for the ownership and maintenance of the property.
History
The Turner Centre has been open and operating since August 2005, but our story starts in the early 1980’s.
Recognising the need for a modern centre to serve the community, a group of highly motivated individuals worked for years to realise their vision. The collective and visionary minds of Doug Turner, Martyn Evans and John Dalton and the integral support and assistance of a group of Directors, Trustees, Business minds and Volunteers got us to where we are today.
In 1992 local architect Martyn Evans started to produce concept drawings for our multipurpose building.
By 2003, contributions from Julian Robertson, FNDC, Foundation North (ASB Trust), NZ Lotteries, The Dalton Trust, Oxford Sports Trust, local businesses, individuals and other charitable trusts deemed sufficient to proceed with Stage 1 of the building. Stage 1 included the build of our Auditorium, Theatre Bar, Foyer and Event Centre.
In August 2005, The Turner Centre was officially opened by the Prime Minister The Right Honourable Helen Clark.
Further fundraising led to the build of Stage 2, nowadays known as The Plaza.
Governance
Our board members are:
- Carol White – Chair
- Joanne Roberts – Trustee
- Mariao Tehuranga Hohaia – Trustee
- Kylie Mooney – Trustee
- Cara Pinny – Trustee
- Rachel Smith – Trustee
- Jenni Prisk – Trustee
- Babe Kapa – FNDC Council Observer