Iconic Wurlitzer organ facing extinction

(Photo: 3 News)
(Photo: 3 News)

A piece of movie history is under threat, with the Hollywood Cinema in Auckland up for sale.

And one of the casualties is a Wurlitzer organ, which supporters fear could soon fall silent forever.

Generations have fallen in love with the priceless Wurlitzer.

Nearly 3000 Wurlitzers were built to replace orchestras for silent movies. New Zealand now has three.

The Organ Trust raised $100,000 to restore it but it'll cost a similar sum to relocate and $50,000 just to store it.

Few come out in one piece. Many become spare parts for other Wurlitzers, the ultimate "organ" donors.

More information on how to donate is available here.

Watch the video for the full 3 News report.