Night Flicks Drive-In Cinema Tour

Overview

With cinemas currently closed due to stringent gathering and social distancing limitations, several film festivals and event organisers are looking at alternative ways of working. Both the New Zealand International Film Festival and Documentary Edge Festival are heading online for 2020, while across the globe drive-in cinemas are popping up everywhere from vacant airport runways to yacht clubs.

After hosting New Zealand's biggest drive-in movie theatre in January, the hallowed turf of Mount Smart Stadium will once again welcome the classic cinematic experience. The event from Night Flicks Outdoor Cinema and Vivid Event Production will arrive at the stadium from 28–30 May — assuming the Government's transition to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 is given the green light.

On Thursday, 28 May, audiences will watch 80s sci-fi classic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial while still social distancing from comfort of their vehicles, and the following night will see 2018 rom-com Crazy Rich Asians hit the 33-square-metre big screen. The film for Saturday, 30 May is yet to be confirmed.

To create the classic drive-in experience, an FM radio station will be created so that film-goers can tune in on their car radios. Tickets cost $50 per vehicle with a limit of four passengers. General admission and outdoor seating options are not available.

Night Flicks and Vivid Collective have also designed the tour to comply with the current Ministry of Health guidelines — precautions include contactless entry and purchase of food and beverage. Restroom facilities will be available at the venue with staff on site to ensure regular cleaning and to make sure social distancing is being observed. You will be able to remain in your vehicles unless you have to use restrooms.