Hibiscus Coast App

North Harbour Stadium Seeks New Operator

Hibiscus Coast App

Staff Reporter

21 January 2025, 1:31 AM

North Harbour Stadium Seeks New OperatorCall for submissions on stadium operations

Locals on the Hibiscus Coast and North Shore are invited to take part in shaping the future of North Harbour Stadium and Domain Precinct, as an open expression of interest (EOI) process begins today.


The EOI invites submissions from parties or organisations interested in assuming some or all operational responsibilities for the stadium and precinct from mid-2025.


Currently operated by Auckland Council-controlled organisation Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), the process aims to explore opportunities for new operators who can drive positive outcomes for the facility, its community, and its users.





Anna Atkinson, Chairperson of the Upper Harbour Local Board, described the development as “an exciting step for the stadium’s future.”


She added that a working group comprising local and expert stakeholders has been actively involved in the process.


“Whether it’s through increased use of the stadium or engagement with the local community, we are hopeful this EOI is the start of positive change at North Harbour Stadium,” said Atkinson.


Chairperson of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, Alexis Poppelbaum, highlighted the importance of the stadium to the region.


“We want North Harbour Stadium to thrive for the North Shore and the whole of Auckland. Successful parties will need to demonstrate plans to improve the venue’s financial performance while fostering connections with the local community and existing users,” said Poppelbaum.


L-R: Nick Hill (Chief Executive Tataki Auckland Unlimited), Gary Brown (Upper Harbour and Bays Local Board Deputy Chair), Anna Atkinson (Upper Harbour Local Board Chair), Alexis Poppelbaum (Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Chair) and Uzra Casuri Balouch (Upper Harbour Local Board Deputy Chair).


TAU Chief Executive Nick Hill emphasised the venue’s role as one of the busiest in the region, hosting Super Rugby’s Moana Pasifika, NPC’s North Harbour Rugby, and A-League football’s Auckland FC.


Hill also stressed the potential for expanding the stadium’s use for ticketed events.


Submissions meeting the pre-conditions of the EOI will be reviewed by an evaluation panel of local board members, TAU representatives, and independent experts.





If a preferred proposal is identified, the TAU Board will consider entering negotiations, with contracts expected to be in place by mid-year.


Hill assured locals that TAU would continue managing the stadium in the interim, delivering events like last year’s All Whites fixture, upcoming Super Rugby matches, and the Black Ferns test in May.


This EOI marks the first stage of a larger process, focusing on the short-term operational management of the stadium.


Stage two will involve determining the long-term vision, governance, and potential improvements for the precinct.



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