News

SkyCity Entertainment Group has formally taken possession of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) from Fletcher Construction.

The NZICC, located between Hobson Street and Nelson Street in Auckland’s CBD, represents a significant strategic asset for SkyCity and for New Zealand’s tourism and events sector.

SkyCity Chief Executive Officer, Jason Walbridge, says, “This is a major milestone for SkyCity, and we’re delighted to finally have the keys.

“We can't wait to deliver world-class experiences for everyone who visits, whether it be an international conference for 3,000 delegates, national awards ceremonies, or more local or community events. It’s a spectacular building and we look forward to welcoming everyone in February.

“The NZICC is set to be a powerful catalyst for growth not just for Auckland, but for the entire New Zealand economy. The NZICC will create more than 300 permanent and part-time roles, while driving significant benefits for tourism, hospitality, retail, and hundreds of local suppliers and businesses.

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has played a role in creating and bringing to life the NZICC. It’s been a journey with complex challenges, but together we’ve created something truly unique that we can all be very proud of.”

Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston, says, “This world-class venue will help bring more visitors and events to New Zealand, boosting tourism and our economy.

“I can’t wait to see the first conferences and concerts filling these spaces and showcasing the very best of New Zealand.”

Once officially open, the NZICC will be the largest and most versatile conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue in New Zealand, with capacity for up to 4,000 attendees. The NZICC theatre will be the largest seated theatre in the country, seating 2,850 people, while the hall will be able to host 3,300 people for a banquet.

To date, over 100 events have been confirmed for 2026, including two of Australasia’s largest association conferences – The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).

The NZICC will carry the New Zealand FernMark as part of its branding, the only convention centre in New Zealand to do so, signifying its alignment with and connection to New Zealand.

SkyCity will now start operational testing and commissioning ahead of its official opening in February 2026.

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This announcement has been authorised for release by Phil Leightley, General Counsel & Company Secretary.

Download photo: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, NZICC General Manager Prue Daly, Hon Louise Upston, and SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge stand in front of master carver and sculptor Lyonel Grant’s 17-metre waka, proudly displayed in the atrium of the NZICC.