This small classic movie theatre located in Wanaka is a real find.
Wanaka is well-known for its lake and stunning mountain backdrop. But it’s getting more and more well-known for its cinema.Y’see, Wanaka doesn’t have an every day, run-of-the-mill cinema. Oh no! Wanaka has a cinema unlike any other you’ve probably been in before.Instead of the usual regulation big screen complex, Cinema Paradiso has comfy old sofas, armchairs you can sink into, airline seats, a lazyboy and even three seats inside an old yellow Morris Minor. Now you don’t see that every day.
So once you’ve found a good spot, go and check out the cinema’s café and bar, where you can enjoy a scrummy meal either before, during or after the movie. There’s melt-in-the-mouth freshly baked cookies still warm from the oven, a selection of dips, garlic bread, home-made pizza and wraps or, for the really hungry, there’s Thai yellow curry, Paradiso lasagne, fish pie or a steak sandwich.
And it doesn’t stop there. You can wash it all down with a cold beer or chilled wine, or warm yourself up with a freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate. Oh, and don’t forget the yummy cakes, slices and ice-cream!
"just like the good old days, there’s an intermission"
The best thing is, just like the good old days, there’s an intermission. So if you get the munchies half way through the film, you can stock up during the break. Or if you didn’t have time to have dinner beforehand, order it before the show and it will be ready at half-time! You could even order a dessert to enjoy after the movie ends. Magic! It’s just like being round your mates’ house, except you’re watching the movie with a whole theatre-full of randoms and you can’t beat it for the comfort factor!
• Cinema Paradiso is in Ardmore Street, Wanaka.
• The Cinema and Cafe are open half an hour before the start of the first movie, 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year. The opening times are; Mon - Fri : 3.30pm and Sat - Sun : 1.30pm.
• For reservations call 03 443 1505 or email info@paradiso.net.nz or visit www.paradiso.net.nz
Rachel stayed at the home-from-home Purple Cow Hostel, 94 Brownston Street, Wanaka, with great views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
For more information call Freephone 0800 772 277 or 03 443 1880 or email info@purplecow.co.nz or visit www.purplecow.co.nz
