Accessibility - Baycourt - where the arts come alive
 

Accessibility

We want everyone to experience the magic of a live performance and we’re here to make your visit as easy and comfortable as possible.

Seating at Addison Theatre

Arriving at the venue

Two mobility parks are available on Durham Street, right outside Baycourt. 

View the Tauranga city centre access map (201kb pdf) showing all the mobility parking spaces around Tauranga’s city centre. Or download the free Tauranga Access Map app on your phone which will guide you to accessible parking, restrooms, playgrounds, local businesses, council facilities and more. Baycourt's page on Access Maps is where you can see what's on and discover more about our accessibility.

Baycourt’s main entrance, foyer, bathrooms and X Space are all level with the footpath.

The back row of the Addison Theatre (row T) is also on the same level. There are then 34 rows of steps to reach the front row and there is lighting and hand rails on one side of the aisle to guide you.

Seating inside the X Space can be configured in a number of different ways depending on the needs of the event/show. So while the floor is level with the foyer, there may be a small number of stairs to reach your seat. Our front of house staff are here to help if you need any assistance.

Service dogs

Certified disability assist dogs are welcome at Baycourt. Please contact us before booking your tickets so we can arrange a suitable seat for you and your four-legged friend.

Wheelchair access

The Addison Theatre has six dedicated wheelchair spaces in the back row (row T), closest to the entranceway. To book these seats, please pop into our box office or call us on (07) 577 7188. Alternatively, you can email baycourtboxoffice@tauranga.govt.nz.

We can usually help anyone who requires wheelchair or reduced mobility seating in the X Space too. Please get in touch before booking your tickets so we can discuss the best seating options.

Two wheelchairs are available at Baycourt for patrons use. Simply ask our front of house team when you arrive and they will fetch one for you.

Bathrooms are in the main foyer and have three wheelchair accessible cubicles for you to use. There is one gender-inclusive, stand-alone cubicle, and one each in the women’s and men’s bathrooms.

Accessibility

Hidden disabilities sunflower initiative

Are you wearing a hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard or badge? We see you. Baycourt is a proud partner of this international initiative which supports people with non-visible conditions (such as neurological, neurodevelopmental, visual, auditory, sensory or processing difficulties and chronic health issues like arthritis). Wearing a lanyard lets us know you might need a helping hand or a little more time and understanding. Our front of house team will have your back. If you’ve forgotten your lanyard, no drama, you are welcome to borrow one of ours from the Box Office.

Hidden disability sunflower lanyard

Hearing loops

Connect your hearing aid to our wireless audio system inside the Addison Theatre so you don’t miss a thing! Simply change your hearing aid to the ‘telecoil’ setting, sit back and enjoy the show.

The hearing loop covers most of the Addison Theatre (rows F to S), so you'll have plenty of seating option. Please note that the front five rows and the very back row are outside the coverage area.

While the X Space doesn't have a hearing loop, it's a more intimate venue, so you'll be closer to the performance and may still find it easy to follow along.

Sensory needs

We understand that noise, crowds and bright lights can be overwhelming for some patrons.

If you have sensory sensitivities, let us know how we can make your visit as stress-free as possible. We’re happy to provide a venue tour in advance or give advice on what seats might work best for you. Some of our local and touring shows also offer low-sensory performances so keep an eye out for those!

Get in touch with our team at (07) 577 7189 or baycourt@tauranga.govt.nz to see how we can help.

Safe Space Alliance

Baycourt is proud to be a member of the Safe Space Alliance, and we're committed to being a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for the LGBTQI+ community. Everyone deserves to feel respected and supported here - whether you're attending a show, performing on stage or just stopping by. To learn more go to Safe Space Alliance.

Accessibility queries

We’re always looking for ways to ensure Baycourt is as accessible as possible. We understand that everyone’s needs are different, so if you have any specific requirements, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our box office before booking your tickets. You can email us at baycourtboxoffice@tauranga.govt.nz or call us on (07) 577 7188 - we're here to help make your visit comfortable and enjoyable.