I was first introduced to Wild Style Cafe within a couple of days of arriving into New Zealand back in April 2007. From then until the middle of 2011 it was one of those places that i would spend a few moments on days off having coffee, catching up with family and friends whilst watching the world go by in all weathers.
It was always the place where the Lyall Bay Coast Care Group would meet either before or after a beach clean up. On those wonderful coastal day you could sit outside attempting the 5 minute quiz in the DomPost whilst cars would come and go dropping people for either a coffee or a walk along the beach.
From its large front window that looked out to the Cook Straits you would be able to see all types of weather that this part of the coast would show.
From its large front window that looked out to the Cook Straits you would be able to see all types of weather that this part of the coast would show.
Many new friends were made including Russell (the owner) and his staff who would make you feel welcome and they became part of your life for a few minutes, for some even longer.
You could read a child’s book, a paper, browse the Internet or play Connect with those who felt the need.
Surf lessons could be booked for all ages and experience and had a small selection of surfboards and clothing.
Surf lessons could be booked for all ages and experience and had a small selection of surfboards and clothing.
Apart from coffee it a had a great selection of cakes etc and during the winter a varied selection of soup.
It will be missed by many. Thank you Russell for making the visits an enjoyable one.
It will be missed by many. Thank you Russell for making the visits an enjoyable one.
What is known to date is the building was built around 1909/10 but more than likely 1910. It was built as a cinema and is reported to be the 2nd one that was built in the Wellington area.
The cinema was in use up to around the 40’s(?) when it became a Tea Room. The cinema was called the Sea Side Picture Theatre and when it became Murdoch Tea Rooms.
It may seem odd that Lyall Bay would have a cinema, but as this was classed as a destination resort which was opened up with the introduction of the trams.
The building was sold and after a long renovation it has now been turned into a house which has a stunning frontage.
wildbaynz/lyallbaynz 2013
Originally posted 2011
Updated 12/13
WildBay 
The theatre was named the Tatler theatre when I was a child and there was always a good crowd attending in the weekends. The last person to run the theatre was a Mr. Flemming. He and his family lived upstairs in the building.
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Yeah. Was built by my great grandparents. Was also a skating rink.
Stephen via email.
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