The owner of the St James Theatre has acquired two adjacent properties located at 57 Lorne Street and 330-332 Queen St. The Auckland Notable Properties Trust purchased these properties from Edward and Alice Newman. The total council valuation of the properties is $7.6 million. The purchase is expected to simplify the restoration of the St James Theatre. The article was published on May 14, 2026. The article also includes information about subscription options. The author is Brent Melville.