The Green Party has launched a campaign to save St James Theatre in Auckland following a recent break-in that has left a raft of damage.
Green MP for Auckland Central Chlöe Swarbrick released a video on Sunday, touring around the decrepit theatre with owner Steve Bielby.
In the video, Bielby spoke about the trail of destruction left by a recent break-in.
"They've stolen gutters, flashings, all the electrical wiring, copper water pipes, everything out of the building," which Bielby says threatens the time left to save the St James Theatre.
Swarbrick said in a statement it's a "once-in-a-generation" opportunity to revive the theatre.
"This decision can't be kicked down the road anymore, with recent break-ins and damage exposing the building to weather and rain, meaning it's fast accumulating foundation-eroding dampness."
The theatre tour showcases the extent of the damage, red theatre carpet now lays covered in mould and mushrooms have grown from beneath it, all a result of three weeks worth of bad weather.
"All the floors are absolutely soaked, perfect conditions for fungi," Bielby said.
The Auckland Central MP says it's the venue Auckland has been missing, especially for artists who don't want a large venue like Spark Arena.
"Sitting between Queen Street and our Central City Library, its revival is the revival not only of that entire block, but secures the street’s status as a buzzing destination."
She added there's "never been a lack of ferocious support" for the theatre, instead "inexplicable" political delays to meet Auckland Council's $15 million commitment to bring the theatre back to life.
"The buck stops here. We will lose this Category A historical building if we do not get urgent action."
In an open letter to the associate Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Kiri Allan last year Swarbrick asked the Government to match the council's $15 million contribution to "bring this theatre back to life".
The open letter has just over 5000 signatures, with a goal of 7000.
