Discober what's behind the gates at the North Harbour Stadium

Aucklanders and visitors alike will soon get the chance to go behind the scenes at one of the region’s largest sports arenas, with North Harbour Stadium opening its doors for a free community open day on Sunday 7 December.

The event will be co-hosted by Auckland Stadiums, alongside Auckland Conventions and the stadium’s resident tenants — North Harbour Rugby, Moana Pasifika, and Auckland FC - each offering interactive experiences throughout the day.

Discover What’s Behind the Scenes

Visitors will have the opportunity to take guided tours through normally restricted areas of the stadium, including going pitch side via the players’ tunnel, sitting in the dugouts, and visiting the hallowed home changing rooms.

Tamariki can get active with skills, drills, and games on the oval training field, led by representatives from the sports teams themselves. Families can also relax and enjoy local food and live music in a festival-style atmosphere throughout the day.

Celebrating a Community Asset

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s Director of Auckland Stadiums, James Parkinson, said the free Open Day is a rare opportunity to experience what happens beyond the grandstands.

“North Harbour Stadium has been the home of unforgettable moments and major community events for almost thirty years,” said Parkinson.
“On a day-to-day basis, North Harbour Stadium has become one of the busiest venues in Auckland, hosting training and playing for elite sports teams across two codes. The Open Day is about giving visitors a sneak-peak inside to see what happens behind the curtain. We’re excited to invite the public to a day that celebrates the spirit of this fantastic community asset.”

Community at the Heart

Anna Atkinson, Chair of the Upper Harbour Local Board, is looking forward to seeing the community enjoy the facilities in Albany.

“The North Shore community loves North Harbour Stadium and has contributed to a standout year for the venue that has included the incredible Moana Pasifika season, international sport and NPC rugby. Now it’s great to have the stadium open its doors to the people who love it most, giving the public the chance to explore behind the scenes.”

Alexis Poppelbaum, Chair of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, is equally enthusiastic about the event.

“The Open Day will be fantastic for families across the North Shore to enjoy free activities while adventuring through the halls of North Harbour Stadium. This stadium is at the centre of community sport in the region and hosts elite sport year-round, from North Harbour Rugby and Moana Pasifika through to Auckland FC’s training base. Now visitors from Auckland and beyond will have the chance to share those same changing rooms and get a glimpse of what it feels like to head down to the hallowed turf.”

Event Details

The North Harbour Stadium Open Day will run from 10am – 2pm on Sunday 7 December, with free entry and free parking on site.

We hope to see you all there!