Disaster was narrowly avoided at a historic cinema after a fire broke out earlier this month.

A newly installed fire alarm system and a swift response from firefighters are credited for saving the Roxburgh Entertainment Centre on Scotland St after fire broke out on January 3.

The entertainment centre is home to a 258 seat cinema - believed to be the world's longest running, continuously holding movie showings since December 11, 1897.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand fire investigator Matt Jones said the damage to the building would have been significantly worse had a recent upgrade not been carried out. 

"This is a great example of fire protection in action."

The building, which is owned by the Central Otago District Council (CODC) and operated by volunteers recently underwent upgrades, including the installation of a fire alarm system.

Council acting group manager – planning and infrastructure Lee Webster said the alarm system and swift response from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) prevented a “serious fire”.

"The swift action taken by Fire and Emergency, combined with our upgraded fire protection system, highlights the importance of investing in safety measures which comply with the building code.’’

Council’s property team was working closely with Fenz to ensure the building was restored to “full operational safety’’, he said.

“We are committed to ensuring the Roxburgh Entertainment Centre is fully operational again as soon as possible, and we appreciate the community’s patience during this time. 

‘’An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage.”

The Entertainment Centre is temporarily closed until further notice as assessments and repairs are made.

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