A Guide To Venues

One of the city’s iconic central venues, the Town Hall will be home to immersive exhibitions and The Industry Programme during the festival.

With its convenient location, you'll have plenty of wining and dining options nearby. Check out Victoria Street for pre-show drinks at local favourites including Boo’s or The Dirty Land. If you're feeling hungry following your film, indulge in delicious Asian Fusion at The Dish or authentic Greek flavours at The Athens Yacht Club.

Experience the perfect blend of history and art at Lumiere Cinema, located in the historic Arts Centre. The beautiful location is home to two screens, as well as the Bijou Bar where you can enjoy an array of craft beers and wine, as well as cheeseboards and gelato during your film.

Wanting to make a night of it? It’s not a visit to the Arts Centre without an experience at Cellar Door, right next door. Set in the charming south quad of the Arts Centre, Cellar Door is a haven for wine lovers or simply those who appreciate thoughtfully crafted food and a sophisticated setting. For more casual dining, wander down to Riverside Market where you will be spoilt for choice by the many vendors.

A fitting venue for Doc Edge is of course Christchurch’s home of art, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. Combine your love for art, documentaries and compelling storytelling as you engage with thought-provoking films in the impressive space.

For a side of beautiful architecture with your art, try The Thirsty Peacock restaurant right in the Art Gallery. Or the short walk to many of the city’s dining hot spots means you won’t have any trouble finding a place for drinks and nibbles after your Doc Edge experience. Just across the road is Fiddlesticks – a great spot for dining, complete with a roaring outdoor fire for ultimate ambience.

Step into Alice Cinema, one of Christchurch’s quirky movie theatres that has been operating since 1985. The theatre traditionally offers an extensive collection of foreign films, documentaries, cult classics, and mainstream favourites, making it a perfect venue for Doc Edge screenings. Enjoy your film while sipping on a drink from the licensed bar and indulging in cinema snacks.

Afterwards, why not cross the road over to Little High? A vibrant food court style eatery, Little High is home to an array of delightful dining options. Choose from dumplings, woodfire pizza, burgers, sushi, and so much more.

Right in the heart of the central city is EntX, the ultimate indoor entertainment hub in Ōtautahi. Catch a documentary screening at Hoyts cinema and then explore mini golf, bowling lanes, and an arcade for some extra fun.

Unleash your competitive spirit at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq or test your putting skills at Holey Moley mini golf before grabbing a bite from the diner-style eatery.

Immerse yourself in innovation and collaboration by visiting this vibrant community space on High Street. With the aim to foster an environment where people from diverse backgrounds come together to share knowledge and ideas, the space is an exciting addition to Doc Edge. It will also serve as the festival’s information hub.

Located on High Street means wining and dining before or after couldn't be easier. The Monday Room is always a winning option for dinner, or why not try Little Monday (right next door), their casual wine bar featuring a monthly rotation of pop-up menus.

One of the city’s most loved and utilised central spaces, Tūranga Library is Christchurch’s hub for learning, arts, culture and community. Engage with captivating exhibitions, attend workshops and presentations, or simply soak up the Doc Edge atmosphere within these inspiring surroundings.  

While you are close by, be sure to check out New Regent Street, where you will find plenty of great cafes for all of your coffee, hot chocolate, scone and muffin needs, as well as an array of unique stores to browse.