After being closed since 2007 - re-build work on Auckland's historic St James is expected to start this year

The government announced last July, it would match Auckland Council funding ... demolition and planning work's taken place since.

Owner Steve Bielby says phase one secures the building, with funding covering the structural rebuild - while phase two will involve a conversation about what the theatre's used for.

He thinks that will change over time - probably starting with being used for concerts and comedy.