In 1881, the Westport Coal Company was founded in Dunedin. By the end of the century, it became New Zealand’s largest. In 1916, they retained Francis Penty to design a brick masonry building for their Wellington office. Unfortunately, by 1948, the coal industry declined and was then nationalized leading to the demise of Westport Coal. The building was demolished in 1994 except for the façade. It was moved to the square along Cable Street shared with the Museum of New Zealand. That same year, the Circa Theatre created their stages behind the historic exterior. This professional acting company – founded by Carolyn Henwood in 1975 – annually presents an exciting schedule of New Zealand plays, musicals and dance.
