“Why would you see a movie on vacation?“

While having breakfast with some of the other guests at the Crosshill geo domes, a couple told us about their evening checking out the local movie theater. Now seeing a movie while on vacation isn’t normally something we’d do, however based on their recommendations, we just had to check out Cinema Paradiso in Wanaka, and trust me, it wasn’t the actual movie peaking our interest.

The Cinema Paradiso isn’t your typical theater with reserved seating, ultra size screens and state of the art sound. The theater is in an old church and has kept a lot of the original features from arches, pews and stained glass windows. This small theater has just 3 screens with a variety of unconventional style seats like lazy boys and couches that people get there early to claim. They also offer up another thing you won’t find at the big theaters, an intermission during the movie with warm cookies. Why is this not a more common thing??

Before you ask, yes, Jason had two cookies

Once you arrive at the theater, you place your order for a cookie, or cookies because no one is judging here, and receive a ticket. When the movie abruptly stops, someone walks in with a sign letting you know it’s intermission, and you head to the concession counter to collect your fresh baked delicious warm cookies. As always, chocolate is the best choice.

The intermission is actually a brilliant idea. It gives you that planned time to stand up, stretch your legs, head to the restroom or refresh your snacks without missing any of the movie.

Gladiator II is an enjoyable movie especially when warm cookies are involved

This was such a fun unique experience and nothing like we have back home. Definitely one of our highlights and recommendations when visiting Wanaka.

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