“Another round of New Zealand Angels Choreographed Routines, please.” That is something you may overhear at The White House Adult Entertainment Centre. But there is much more to this building than meets the eye.
The White House Adult Entertainment Centre stands on 371 Queen Street. It is an Auckland icon next to Myers Park. But did you know that this magnificent building has a very interesting past?
Once upon a time, this building housed The New Zealand Theosophical Society. The society focused on “The Wisdom of the Divine.” Now, it offers entertainment of a different kind.
In 2000, Brian Le Gros visited Auckland. He is well known in Wellington entertainment circles. Brian sought a location fitting for his vision. He wanted to change the perception of the striptease industry. His goal was to elevate it to a level never before seen in New Zealand.
Brian Le Gros found his building at 371 Queen Street. Then began the arduous task of total renovation. He transformed the interior and exterior of the old building. From furnishings to paintings, The White House oozes class.
Some neighboring businesses opposed the project. They had perceptions of the “dark side” of the entertainment industry. This opposition slowed plans somewhat. Still, work continued day and night. It was no easy task.
For nearly two years, Brian Le Gros operated The White House. He had council resource consent for an entertainment facility. He spent $5 million making a rat-infested old building beautiful.
The White House employs many people. There are ten bar managers and staff. Forty working girls and sixteen dancers contribute to the business. The White House paid a lot of tax.
The Auckland City Council once considered a bylaw. This bylaw would ban sex industry premises near preschools, schools, and homes. The White House is next to the Kinz in the Park child care centre. Brian Le Gros worried his club would be forced to close.
Tanya Harvey is the licensee of the Auckland Kindergarten Association. It runs the child care centre in Myers Kindergarten building. She said The White House had not been a troublesome neighbor.
Mr. Le Gros improved the kindergarten’s safety. He installed security lighting. He arranged nightly patrols. Also he cleaned up graffiti.
The Salvation Army is another neighbor. Major Ross Gower is the divisional commander for the northern region. He said The White House presented “minor difficulties”. The staff tried to be courteous neighbors.
Whether you are drawn by its history or its current entertainment. The White House Adult Entertainment Centre offers a unique experience. It is an Auckland landmark.