Theatre-lovers could be back inside the Auckland St James in a matter of months.

The 39-story St James Suites apartment project moves up another gear today, with the opening of a show suite.

Part of the project includes the restoration of the crumbling Queen Street theatre.

Development manager Mike Gibbon says they're committed to progressing the project.

"Hopefully working towards a first stage of an opening within the next few months."

It's understood that first stage, would be along the lines of a cafe in the theatre's foyer.