A New Chapter Begins Starlight Cinema
Where Community and Film Meet Our Story
We didn’t set out just to own a cinema; we set out to protect a community treasure. Our love for film and our love for this town collided in the best possible way, and that’s how Starlight Cinema came into our lives. We wanted to keep the spirit of a place that’s meant so much to so many and transform it into a modern hub for connection, creativity, and shared experience.
While we may have temporarily lost the original building to yet another outerwear store (we’re still not over it), the heart of Starlight never disappeared. We’re bringing it back the jingle, the nostalgia, the 1960 logo (glow-up included) – all preserved and re-imagined for today.
Building the New Cinema The Journey
So we pivoted. And after countless site visits, rejected plans, and a nine-month design process, we finally broke ground and built something we're truly proud of. The construction itself? Surprisingly smooth thanks to an incredible team that shared our vision and made the impossible feel easy.
Meet the Owners Charlie & Tamasin
Charlie grew up in Texas, turned pro in 2001, and spent a decade as a club pro in Dallas.
Tamasin grew up in Taupō and spent more hours in the old cinema than she cares to admit! Golf eventually took her to the US on a scholarship which is where fate, film, and fairways collided.
They met in Dallas in 2010, got married, welcomed three gorgeous boys, and spent ten years there before returning home to Taupō in 2020, ready to raise their family, and bring the Starlight back to life.
Beyond the Screen Our Guiding Stars
We’re not just running a cinema. We’re building a space for stories yours, ours, and everyone who walks through the doors.
Our Vision for Starlight Cinema:
- Keep film culture alive in Taupō
- Support local events & independent filmmakers
- Create experiences worth leaving the house for
- Make space for connection, celebration, and nostalgia
