SKYCITY Entertainment GroupSKYCITY Entertainment Group

OUR BUSINESS
A PLATFORM FOR GROWTH

AT THE HEART OF SKYCITY’S BUSINESS LIES A COMMITMENT TO CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR). WE ARE COMMITTED TO SHOWING LEADERSHIP IN THIS AREA

About SKYCITY

SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (“SkyCity” or “SkyCity Group”) is New Zealand’s largest tourism, leisure and entertainment company and is dual listed on the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges.

As one of three major publicly listed casino operators in Australasia, SkyCity operates integrated entertainment complexes in New Zealand (in Auckland, Hamilton and Queenstown) and in Adelaide, Australia - each featuring casino gaming facilities and premium restaurants and bars, which appeal to both domestic and international visitors alike.

SkyCity also offers award-winning hotel accommodation in Auckland at The Grand by SkyCity and SkyCity Hotel. SkyCity has recently opened Eos by SkyCity, a new 120-room luxury hotel in Adelaide, South Australia. SkyCity's hotel offering will shortly be complemented with Horizon Hotel, a new 300-room 5-star hotel now expected to be completed in Auckland during 2022 (having been impacted by the significant fire that broke out at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in October 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic).

In August 2019, SkyCity launched SkyCity Online Casino, an offshore online gaming business for New Zealanders, as a logical extension of its land-based casino operations. Whilst the business is still very much in its infancy, SkyCity is encouraged by SkyCity Online Casino's performance since launch. As at 31 August 2020, there were over 35,000 registered SkyCity Online Casino customers.

SkyCity employs over 4,200 staff across its operations in New Zealand and Australia across more than 180 job types, with around 2,500 staff based at its flagship property in Auckland.

OUR Strategy

Our refreshed Group medium term strategy has a clear focus on the creation of both sustainable shareholder returns and enhanced social and sustainability initiatives critical to the long term viability and success of SkyCity.

What's important to us

Shareholder Value

Delivering sustainable total shareholder return that rewards long-term investment with us.

Superlative Experience

Exceeding our customers’ expectations by delivering a world-class entertainment experience.

Community Benefit

Providing demonstrable economic and social benefits to the communities in which we operate.

Corporate Sustainability

Being a good corporate citizen, whilst operating a sustainable and successful business model.

Board of Directors

Senior Management

Rob Campbell
Chairman

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Chair of the Governance and Nominations Committee, Member of the Audit and Risk Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee, Member of the Sustainability Committee and Member of the People and Culture Committee. 

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in June 2017

Rob Campbell was appointed Chairman of the SkyCity Board effective from 1 January 2018 following Chris Moller’s retirement from the Board.

Rob is currently the Chair of Tourism Holdings Limited, New Zealand Rural Land Company Limited, Ara Ake Limited and WEL Networks Limited and a director of Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited. Rob has over 30 years’ experience in capital markets and is a director of, or advisor to, a range of investment fund and private equity groups in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and the United States of America.

Rob holds a Bachelor of Arts with First Class Honours in Economic History and Political Science and a Masters of Philosophy in Economics.

Sue Suckling
Director

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Chair of the Sustainability Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in May 2011

Sue Suckling is an independent director and consultant with over 25 years in commercial corporate governance. She is recognised for her leadership in the technology innovation space and her deep governance experience.

Sue is currently the Chair of the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme Commission, Jacobsen Holdings Limited, Eat My Lunch, Rubix Limited, Taska Prosthetics Limited and Jade Software Corporation Limited. Previous governance roles include chairing NIWA, the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and AgriQuality Limited, and as a director of Restaurant Brands Limited, Westpac Investments Limited and the New Zealand Dairy Board. She was awarded an OBE for her contribution to New Zealand business.

Sue is a Chartered Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and a Companion of the Royal Society of New Zealand

 

Jennifer Owen
Director

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Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, Member of the People and Culture Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in December 2016

Jennifer Owen has more than 30 years’ experience in the areas of accountancy, audit, finance, treasury and equities research. She has specific specialist knowledge of the New Zealand and Australian gaming and entertainment sectors through her previous roles as Director of Equities Research at Citigroup Global Markets, with a specialist focus on the Australasian gaming sector, and as Equities Research Analyst at Macquarie Group focusing on the tourism/leisure sector, and a wide network within the gaming industry and has a strong understanding of industry and investor issues.

Jennifer is currently a Principal of Owen Gaming Research, an independent research firm specialising in the gaming and wagering markets, and a director of Aspire Child Care (Mascot) Pty Limited.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Business from the Queensland Institute of Technology and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Queensland, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Diploma course and is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

 

Murray Jordan
Director

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Chair of the People and Culture Committee, Member of the Audit and Risk Committee, Member of the Sustainability Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in December 2016

Murray Jordan is currently a director of Chorus Limited, Metcash Limited, Stevenson Group Limited, Asia Pacific Village Group Limited, Southern Cross Benefits Limited, Southern Cross Hospitals Limited and the Southern Cross Medical Care Society. He is also a trustee of Southern Cross Health Trust, Starship Foundation, Foodstuffs ’Members Protection Trust and The Foodstuffs
Co-operative Perpetuation Trust.

Prior to embarking on a governance career in2015, he held various senior management roles at Foodstuffs Limited from 2004 to 2015, including Managing Director of Foodstuffs North Island and Managing Director and General Manager Retail, Sales and Performance of Foodstuffs Auckland Limited. In 2013, he led the merger of the Auckland and Wellington businesses of Foodstuffs to create what is now known as Foodstuffs North Island and established and oversaw the integration programme.

His early career was in the property sector, including as General Manager of Telecom NZ’s property business and General Manager of AMP Capital Investors NZ Limited’s property portfolio. Murray has a Masters degree in Property Administration from the University of Auckland.

Silvana Schenone
Director

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Member of the People and Culture Committee, Member of the Sustainability committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in June 2021

Silvana Schenone is a corporate partner at MinterEllisonRuddWatts in Auckland where she leads the firm’s Corporate division. She has extensive expertise in mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, takeovers, scheme of arrangements, capital raisings and corporate governance matters. Ms Schenone is recognised internationally for her commercial acumen and negotiation skills, and is a thought leader on corporate governance issues.

Committed to championing greater diversity, Ms Schenone is a founding member of OnBeingBold. She is also a Board member of the New Zealand Takeovers Panel and holds a Master of Laws from Harvard University.

Prior to joining MinterEllisonRuddWatts in 2007, Ms Schenone was a corporate lawyer at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP in New York and prior to that at Cariola Diez Pérez-Cotapos in Chile.

Chad Barton
Director

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Member of the Audit & Risk Committee, Member of the People and Culture Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in June 2021

Chad Barton has extensive experience across finance, capital markets, mergers, acquisitions and property development having been the Chief Financial Officer of
ASX-listed companies The Star Entertainment Group Limited from 2014 to 2019 and Salmat Limited from 2009 to 2014. Prior to this, he was Chief Financial Officer of the Australia and New Zealand business of Electronic Data Systems from 2006 to 2009.

Mr Barton, as founding Chairperson, established Women in Gaming & Hospitality Australasia to achieve gender equity and support the development and success of women in the gaming industry.

He is currently a director of NeuRA (Neuroscience Research Australia) Foundation and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Chartered Accountants ANZ and holds a Bachelor of Business from the University of Technology in Sydney.

Julian Cook
Director

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Member of the Audit & Risk Committee, Member of the People and Culture Committee, Member of the Governance and Nominations Committee

Appointed a Director of SkyCity in June 2021

Julian Cook is the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of Summerset Group Holdings Limited. Prior to becoming Chief Executive Officer in 2014, he was Summerset’s Chief Financial Officer where he oversaw the company’s transition to become a publicly listed company on the New Zealand Stock Exchange and Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

Prior to joining Summerset in 2010, Mr Cook was an Associate Director at Macquarie Group where he gained significant experience in the energy, industrial services, tourism and aged care sectors over a 12-year career.

Mr Cook is currently a member of the Executive Committee for the New Zealand Retirement Villages Association and holds a Master of Finance from Victoria University and a Master of Science from the University of Waikato.

Michael Ahearne
Chief Executive Officer

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Michael joined SkyCity in December 2017 as Group Chief Operating Officer and was appointed Chief Executive Officer in November 2020.

Michael has significant global experience in the gaming industry across both land-based and online casinos, as well as retail and online sports betting. Prior to joining SkyCity, Michael held a number of senior commercial, operational and product leadership roles at Paddy Power Betfair, one of the world’s leaders in sports betting and gaming. Prior to this, Michael enjoyed a 13-year career in the Australasian gaming and entertainment sector – 10 years of which were spent at The Star Casino, Sydney, where he held a variety of senior management positions and, following that, three years as Chief Operating Officer for Aristocrat in the Australia and New Zealand regions.

Michael is a qualified accountant and holds an MBA from the University of Technology, Sydney.

Julie Amey
Chief Financial Officer

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Julie joined SkyCity in May 2021 and is our Chief Financial Officer, responsible for the financial management of SkyCity, including reporting, treasury, risk management and corporate development.

Julie is a highly experienced executive who has worked in senior finance roles with the Shell Group internationally, and previously held positions at Fletcher Challenge Energy, BBC Worldwide Publishing and Deloitte & Touche.

Julie is a University of Waikato graduate and is a Chartered Accountant (Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand). 

 

Callum Mallett
Chief Operating Officer New Zealand

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Callum Mallett, our Chief Operating Officer New Zealand, takes on the operating responsibility for the New Zealand businesses and day-to-day operations of SkyCity Auckland.

Mr Mallett has held a number of senior roles at SkyCity, including General Manager SkyCity Darwin and General Manager SkyCity Auckland Hotels, Convention Centre and Sky Tower, and is currently Executive General Manager Hospitality at SkyCity Auckland.

In his current role, Mr Mallett facilitated the recently opened All Blacks Experience and Weta Unleashed attractions at SkyCity Auckland and Emirates Team New Zealand partnership.

David Christian
Chief Operating Officer Australia

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David was appointed General Manager Adelaide Casino in April 2019 and oversees the operations of SkyCity’s second largest property in Adelaide.

David has previously held several significant positions within the SkyCity Entertainment Group, including General Manager SkyCity Darwin from June 2016 - April 2019, General Manager Adelaide Casino from 2008 - 2014 and, prior to that, General Manager SkyCity Auckland and General Manager SkyCity Hamilton.

David has more than 30 years’ experience in hospitality, hotel and casino management, including working in several Australian States and Singapore.

Claire Walker
Chief People & Culture Officer

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Claire was appointed General Manager Human Resources in August 2016 and Chief People and Culture Officer in April 2019. She is responsible for leading the development and implementation of best practice human resource strategy across SkyCity. She also has executive responsibility for sustainability at SkyCity.

Prior to joining SkyCity in 2016, Claire was Chief People Officer at Sanford Limited where she established the human resources function and led the sustainability and integrated reporting activities for the organisation and, prior to that, Claire led the human resources and employee relations function for the SkyCity Auckland business. Claire has also held senior human resource roles with Carter Holt Harvey and Downer after several years working in the education sector.

Jo Wong
General Counsel and Company Secretary

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Jo joined SkyCity as Senior Legal Counsel in January 2009 and was subsequently appointed as Deputy General Counsel before being appointed as General Counsel and Company Secretary in September 2016. As General Counsel and Company Secretary, Jo is responsible for SkyCity’s legal, company secretarial, regulatory affairs and anti-money laundering functions.

Jo has more than 20 years’ experience in both private practice and in-house legal roles. Before joining SkyCity in 2009, she held General Counsel and Group Corporate Counsel roles in the New Zealand financial services industry and was a Senior Solicitor at Russell McVeagh, one of the leading law firms in New Zealand.

Jo is a graduate of the 2017 Global Women Breakthrough Leaders Programme, is a member of New Zealand Asian Leaders and holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Criminology and Japanese) from Victoria University of Wellington.

Matthew Ballesty
Chief Casino Officer

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Matt joined SkyCity Entertainment Group in 2013 and has held several senior operational and strategic roles.

As Chief Casino Officer Matt is responsible for managing the casino operations at SkyCity's largest property in Auckland and providing strategic direction on all gaming products and initiatives across the SkyCity Entertainment Group.

Hailing from Australia, Matt has experienced a diverse 27-year career in the casino and hospitality sector having held senior executive positions in Australia, New Zealand, Macau and Canada. 

Nirupa George
Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

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Nirupa joined SkyCity as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer in June 2021 and is responsible for leading SkyCity’s corporate affairs activities, including government, community and industry stakeholder relations and SkyCity’s public policy and advocacy.

Nirupa joined SkyCity from the Office of the Mayor of Auckland, where she was Chief of Staff. Prior to this, she ran Mayor Phil Goff’s successful mayoral campaign in 2016 and worked in Parliament as a Political and Media Advisor. Early in her career, she was a Senior Solicitor specialising in refugee and humanitarian law.

Nirupa holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Health Science from the University of Auckland.

Simon Jamieson
Group General Manager, NZICC Development & Tourism

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Since joining SkyCity in September 2007, Simon has held a number of roles, including General Manager Adelaide Casino, General Manager Hotels SkyCity Auckland and Acting General Manager SkyCity Auckland.

As General Manager NZICC, Simon oversees the development of SkyCity’s New Zealand International Convention Centre and Horizon Hotel project in Auckland. He is also responsible for health and safety at SkyCity.

With more than 30 years’ experience in large-scale hospitality businesses, Simon brings a wealth of commercial experience and tourism know-how to the SkyCity business.

Glen McLatchie
Chief Information Officer

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Glen joined SkyCity in 2016 as Chief Information Officer and is responsible for lifting the digital capability of the organisation to be able to respond to future innovation initiatives and growth strategies.

Prior to joining SkyCity, Glen was General Manager ICT with Meridian Energy where he transformed and modernised their aging technology footprint and digital capability. He has 25 years of technology experience from across several industries globally, having worked in and out of the UK, France, USA, Australia, Malaysia, India, China and the Middle East.

Glen holds a Master of Information Systems from Swinburne University of Technology, Australia, and a Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey University, New Zealand.

Stewart Neish
Group General Manager International Gaming

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Stewart Neish was appointed President of International Business in June 2017 and is responsible for the positioning and development of SkyCity’s international gaming business.

Stewart has operational experience across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Africa and Latin America and has extensive experience in VIP gaming operations and customer development strategies. Stewart holds a Bachelor of Business and an Advanced Diploma in International Hotel Management.

Michelle Baillie
General Manager SkyCity Hamilton

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Michelle has over 24 years’ experience in the casino and hospitality industries in New Zealand, and has held various senior managerial roles within SkyCity predominantly in casino operations, but also in hotel operations and project management positions.

Michelle was appointed General Manager SkyCity Queenstown in May 2008 and relocated to Hamilton in April 2014 to take up the position of General Manager SkyCity Hamilton. Michelle has overseen a number of positive changes to the Hamilton business achieving record results and winning awards, including Michelle being awarded CEO of the Year in the 2017 Waikato Business Awards.

Michelle has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of Canterbury. She was a Board member of the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce from 2012 - 2013 and was on the Executive Committee of the Hamilton Central Business Association from 2015 – 2016. Michelle is currently a trustee of the SkyCity Hamilton Community Trust and a board member of Women in Gaming and Hospitality Australasia.

Jonathan Browne
General Manager SkyCity Queenstown

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Jonathan Browne joined SkyCity in May 2015 and is responsible for overseeing the operations of SkyCity Queenstown Casino and SkyCity Wharf Casino in Queenstown. Commencing his career in tourism, Jono travelled widely before returning to New Zealand and a role with Lion Nathan in Wellington. Jonathan progressed to Area Manager with Lion Nathan before joining the gaming industry in 2008.

Jono has since held roles as National Accounts Manager for International Gaming Technology (NZ) and more recently General Manager for United Gaming while balancing his role as director for a hospitality venue company. He holds qualifications in Marketing and Tourism, a post graduate certificate in Management and an MBA from Victoria University.

Governance

Corporate governance at SkyCity encompasses the company's decision-making structures and the mechanisms used to manage the organisation.  

The Board of SkyCity has a comprehensive set of corporate governance practices and procedures in place to ensure that these responsibilities are met.  

The SkyCity Board Charter sets out the corporate governance framework for the Board and its committees.

Below is a summary of SkyCity's Board and committee structure and membership information as well as the Board Charter and associated documents.

Audit and Risk Committee

The primary objective of the Board’s Audit and Risk Committee is to assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its responsibilities relating to accounting and reporting, external and internal audit, tax planning and compliance, treasury, gaming regulatory compliance, and risk management.

Members

Jennifer Owen (Chair)

Rob Campbell

Murray Jordan

The primary objective of the Board’s Audit and Risk Committee is to assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its responsibilities relating to accounting and reporting, external and internal audit, tax planning and compliance, treasury, gaming regulatory compliance, and risk management.

Members

Jennifer Owen (Chair)

Rob Campbell

Murray Jordan

People and Culture Committee

The Board's People and Culture Committee oversees the management of the human resource activities of the company, the senior management structure, senior executive performance, remuneration and incentivisation, and succession planning.

Members

Murray Jordan (Chair)
Jennifer Owen
Rob Campbell

 

The Board's People and Culture Committee oversees the management of the human resource activities of the company, the senior management structure, senior executive performance, remuneration and incentivisation, and succession planning.

Members

Murray Jordan (Chair)
Jennifer Owen
Rob Campbell

 

Governance and Nominations Committee

The Board's Governance and Nominations Committee monitors the overall governance of the business, Board (and committees) composition and performance, director independence, conflicts of interest, the ethics of the organisation, protection of the company's casino licences, statutory compliance, host responsibility and problem gambling programmes and initiatives.

The Committee's responsibilities include development and review of the corporate governance principles and framework for the company. The Committee is also responsible for monitoring shareholder relationships and employee shareholding matters and policies.

Members

Rob Campbell (Chair)
Sue Suckling
Jennifer Owen
Murray Jordan

The Board's Governance and Nominations Committee monitors the overall governance of the business, Board (and committees) composition and performance, director independence, conflicts of interest, the ethics of the organisation, protection of the company's casino licences, statutory compliance, host responsibility and problem gambling programmes and initiatives.

The Committee's responsibilities include development and review of the corporate governance principles and framework for the company. The Committee is also responsible for monitoring shareholder relationships and employee shareholding matters and policies.

Members

Rob Campbell (Chair)
Sue Suckling
Jennifer Owen
Murray Jordan

Sustainability Committee

The Board's Sustainability Committee is responsible for monitoring the organisational integrity of business operations to ensure the maintenance of a high standard of ethical behaviour. This includes ensuring that SkyCity operates in compliance with its Code of Business Practice, which sets out the guiding principles of its relationships with stakeholder groups such as regulators, shareholders, suppliers, customers, community groups and employees.

Members

Sue Suckling (Chair)

Rob Campbell

Murray Jordan 

The Board's Sustainability Committee is responsible for monitoring the organisational integrity of business operations to ensure the maintenance of a high standard of ethical behaviour. This includes ensuring that SkyCity operates in compliance with its Code of Business Practice, which sets out the guiding principles of its relationships with stakeholder groups such as regulators, shareholders, suppliers, customers, community groups and employees.

Members

Sue Suckling (Chair)

Rob Campbell

Murray Jordan 

Board Charter and Documents

Ownership Profile

 SkyCity currently has over 17,500 independent shareholders.  

 

 

The majority of SkyCity's current shareholder base, by value, is represented by institutional investors (both domestic and offshore), with the balance predominantly held by New Zealand retail. ~77% of SkyCity stock is held by the top 20 shareholders as at 1 August 2020, with SkyCity's largest single shareholder holding around ~18%.

 

 

 

Twenty largest shareholders as at 1 August 2020.

Total ordinary shares on issue as at 1 August 2020 were 760,205,209 of which 1,178,582 were held in aggregate by Public Trust on behalf of eligible and future participants pursuant to the SkyCity Senior Executive Long Term Incentive Plan and 2018 SkyCity Executive Long Term Incentive Plan. The ordinary shares are quoted on both the NZX Main Board and ASX under the ticker code 'SKC'. No shares were held by the company directly as treasury stock.

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

137,576,780 | 18.097

JP Morgan Nominees Australia Limited

79,722,766 | 10.487

HSBC Nominees (New Zealand) Limited A/C State Street – NZCSD

44,365,094 | 5.836

Accident Compensation Corporation – NZCSD

43,885,498 | 5.773

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

42,817,823 | 5.632

Citibank Nominees (New Zealand) Limited – NZCSD

40,841,912 | 5.372

HSBC Nominees (New Zealand) Limited – NZCSD

31,474,586 | 4.14

JPMorgan Chase Bank NA NZ Branch – Segregated Clients Acct – NZCSD

23,470,685 | 3.087

BNP Paribas Noms Pty Limited

21,405,119 | 2.816

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited

19.954,863 | 2.625

ANZ Custodial Services New Zealand Limited – NZCSD

14,686,488 | 1.932

BNP Paribas Nominees (NZ) Limited – NZCSD

13,408,250 | 1.764

New Zealand Depository Nominee Limited

11,616,795 | 1.528

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

10,017,024 | 1.318

HSBC Nominees A/C NZ Superannuation Fund Nominees Limited – NZCSD

9,441,124 | 1.242

BNP Paribas Nominees (NZ) Limited – NZCSD

8,905,204 | 1.171

National Nominees Limited

8,345,807 | 1.098

ANZ Wholesale Australasian Share Fund – NZCSD

8,216,900 | 1.081

Masfen Securities Limited

5,750,986 | 0.757

UBS Nominees Pty Limited

5,629,253 | 0.74

Regulatory Environment

In New Zealand, casino gaming activities are regulated by the Department of Internal Affairs and Gambling Commission in accordance with the Gambling Act 2003. In Australia, casino gaming activities are regulated by the relevant State and Territory governments.

New Zealand

Casino licensing in New Zealand is governed by the Gambling Act 2003, which is administered by the Department of Internal Affairs and Gambling Commission.

Under the Gambling Act, two licences are required to operate a casino in New Zealand:

  • a site-specific casino venue licence; and
  • a casino operator’s licence.

A casino venue licence typically runs for an initial term of 25 years from the date of opening of the relevant casino. However, a casino venue licence may be renewed for further successive periods of 15 years each under the Gambling Act. A casino venue licence has been issued for each of SkyCity’s New Zealand casinos.

SkyCity Casino Management Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited) holds a casino operator’s licence for each of SkyCity’s New Zealand casinos..

SkyCity’s casino venue licences and casino operator’s licences can be viewed at the Gambling Commission's website.

SkyCity has a venue licence for each of its three venues in New Zealand - Auckland, Hamilton and Queenstown.  The table below outlines the significant dates associated with the licences.

SkyCity Casino

Date Venue Licence Granted

Term of Venue Licence for Casino

Operational Start Date of Casino

Expiry Date

Auckland

24 April 1995

25 yrs from date of operation

2 February 1996

30 June 2048 (1) & (2)

Hamilton

10 December 1999

25 yrs from date of operation

19 September 2002

18 September 2027 (1)

Queenstown

18 June 1999

25 yrs from date of operation

7 December 2000

6 December 2025 (1)

Queenstown (Wharf Casino)

 18 June 1999

25 yrs from date of operation 

11 September 1999

Acquired by SkyCity
23 July 2013

11 September 2024 (1)

(1) The casino licences may be renewed for a further period of 15 years as provided by section 138 of the Gambling Act 2003.

(2) As extended by the New Zealand International Convention Centre Project and Licensing Agreement dated 5 July 2013.

Casino licensing in New Zealand is governed by the Gambling Act 2003, which is administered by the Department of Internal Affairs and Gambling Commission.

Under the Gambling Act, two licences are required to operate a casino in New Zealand:

  • a site-specific casino venue licence; and
  • a casino operator’s licence.

A casino venue licence typically runs for an initial term of 25 years from the date of opening of the relevant casino. However, a casino venue licence may be renewed for further successive periods of 15 years each under the Gambling Act. A casino venue licence has been issued for each of SkyCity’s New Zealand casinos.

SkyCity Casino Management Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited) holds a casino operator’s licence for each of SkyCity’s New Zealand casinos..

SkyCity’s casino venue licences and casino operator’s licences can be viewed at the Gambling Commission's website.

SkyCity has a venue licence for each of its three venues in New Zealand - Auckland, Hamilton and Queenstown.  The table below outlines the significant dates associated with the licences.

SkyCity Casino

Date Venue Licence Granted

Term of Venue Licence for Casino

Operational Start Date of Casino

Expiry Date

Auckland

24 April 1995

25 yrs from date of operation

2 February 1996

30 June 2048 (1) & (2)

Hamilton

10 December 1999

25 yrs from date of operation

19 September 2002

18 September 2027 (1)

Queenstown

18 June 1999

25 yrs from date of operation

7 December 2000

6 December 2025 (1)

Queenstown (Wharf Casino)

 18 June 1999

25 yrs from date of operation 

11 September 1999

Acquired by SkyCity
23 July 2013

11 September 2024 (1)

(1) The casino licences may be renewed for a further period of 15 years as provided by section 138 of the Gambling Act 2003.

(2) As extended by the New Zealand International Convention Centre Project and Licensing Agreement dated 5 July 2013.

Australia - Adelaide

Casino licensing in South Australia is governed by the Casino Act 1997, which is administered by the Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner (Consumer & Business Services).

In February 2000, SkyCity Australia Pty Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited) was the successful bidder for Adelaide Casino Pty Limited, the holder of the casino licence for South Australia. The Adelaide Casino licence currently runs until 2085, with casino exclusivity in the State of South Australia until 2035.

The Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement can be viewed at the South Australian Department of Treasury and Finance website, click here to view the site.

Casino gaming in South Australia is regulated by Consumer and Business (CBD)

Casino licensing in South Australia is governed by the Casino Act 1997, which is administered by the Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner (Consumer & Business Services).

In February 2000, SkyCity Australia Pty Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited) was the successful bidder for Adelaide Casino Pty Limited, the holder of the casino licence for South Australia. The Adelaide Casino licence currently runs until 2085, with casino exclusivity in the State of South Australia until 2035.

The Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement can be viewed at the South Australian Department of Treasury and Finance website, click here to view the site.

Casino gaming in South Australia is regulated by Consumer and Business (CBD)

History

SkyCity came into existence in 1996 when Sky City Limited became the owner of the SkyCity Auckland complex. In 1998, it took over the operations from the previous gaming operator Harrah's Entertainment. Since opening its original Auckland casino, SkyCity has expanded its operations to several New Zealand cities and Australian cities. 

SKYCITY 25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY HIGHLIGHTS

1996 SkyCity opens its flagship Auckland complex and lists on the New Zealand stock exchange

1997 Sky Tower opens, becoming the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere

1999 SkyCity lists on the Australian stock exchange

2001 Sky Jump opens in Auckland

2003 Bar 3 and Play open in Auckland

2005 The Grand by SkyCity opens along with SkyCity’s first signature restaurant ‘dine by Peter Gordon and East Day Spa

2006 Bellota opens, a contemporary Spanish tapas bar designed by Peter Gordon

2007 Sky Walk opens

2009 Bar 3 becomes twentyone

2011 Al Brown’s Depot and Red Hummingbird and The Grill open after the redevelopment of Federal Street

2013 Peter Gordon opens The Sugar Club on Level 53 of the Sky Tower

         Al Brown opens Federal Delicatessen and Nic Watt opens MASU on Federal Street

2014 Gusto at The Grand opens as SkyCity achieves Rainbow Tick certification for the first time

2015 Andy’s Burgers opens in revitalised Auckland atrium space

2016 The first sod is turned on the New Zealand Convention Centre and Horizon Hotel

2019 SkyCity New Zealand installs facial recognition technology across its sites, becomes Carbon neutral and launches online casino SkyCity Malta

2020 SkyCity opens a Green Fund to reduce its carbon emissions, opens Flare bar on the main gaming floor and welcomes Weta Workshop Unleashed and The All Black Experience to Federal Street

2021 SkyCity ‘Official Hotels and Entertainment partner’ for the Emirates Team NZ defense of the 36th America’s Cup 

SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited - History

  • March 2020: COVID-19 pandemic temporarily closes all SkyCity properties in New Zealand and Adelaide, South Australia
  • October 2019: A significant fire broke out at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (under construction).
  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.
  • July 2019: SkyCity unveils re-brand.
  • May 2019: SkyCity announces plans to offer online casino gaming via international iGaming company Gaming Innovation Group Inc. 
  • April 2019: SkyCity has entered into a binding agreement to sell a long-term concession over its Auckland car parks to Macquarie Principal Finance Group for $220m. 
  • April 2019: SkyCity sells its Darwin business to Delaware North for A$188 million.
  • December 2019: SkyCity announces plan for share buy-back during 2019. 
  • May 2018: SkyCity signs construction contract for Adelaide expansion with Hansen Yuncken.
  • May 2018: SkyCity signs unconditional agreement to sell Federal Street car park for NZ$40 million to ICD Property Investment Limited.
  • October 2017: SkyCity acquires NPT Limited's Interest in AA Centre (12,000m2) in Auckland for NZ$47 million.
  • November 2016: Graeme Stephens appointed Chief Executive Officer.
  • May 2016: SkyCity signs an Early Works Agreement with the South Australia Government as part of the expansion of the Adelaide Casino and the broader development of the Adelaide riverbank precinct.
  • May 2016: SkyCity completes a NZ$263 million capital raising through an accelerated renounceable entitlement offer to existing shareholders.
  • April 2016: Nigel Morrison resigns as Chief Executive Officer, with John Mortensen appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer.
  • January 2016: SkyCity plans for the expansion of the Adelaide Casino are approved by South Australia’s Development Assessment Commission.
  • November 2015: SkyCity lodges its plans for the exterior design of the Adelaide Casino expansion with the South Australian design approval body, the Development Assessment Commission.
  • November 2015: The regulatory concessions under the New Zealand International Convention Centre Agreement with the New Zealand Government become available to SkyCity following signing of the building works contract with Fletcher Construction Limited for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • October 2015: SkyCity appoints Fletcher Construction Limited as the main contractor for the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Hobson St Hotel developments.
  • September 2015: SkyCity announces that the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Hobson St Hotel projects received resource consent approval from the Auckland Council.
  • September 2015: SkyCity allots NZ$125 million of unsubordinated, unsecured, redeemable, fixed rate, seven year bonds.
  • September 2015: SkyCity launches a Level 1, Sponsored American Depository Receipts programme with the Bank of New York Mellon.
  • August 2015: SkyCity announces its intention to issue up to NZ$100 million (plus up to NZ$25 million of oversubscriptions) of unsubordinated, unsecured, redeemable, fixed rate, seven year bonds.
  • July 2015: SkyCity announces that the Northern Territory Government’s gaming tax rate review for the SkyCity Darwin Casino has completed and new tax rates confirmed.
  • July 2015: SkyCity announces that its resource consent application for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre, the Hobson St Hotel, additional car parks, and a pedestrian laneway will proceed on a non-notified basis.
  • May 2015: SkyCity and the New Zealand Government agree the preliminary design and execute an amended agreement for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • April 2015: The Northern Territory Government imposes a Community Benefit Levy on SkyCity Darwin.
  • March 2015: SkyCity agrees commercial terms for the Adelaide Casino car park lease.
  • March 2015: SkyCity announces that it and the New Zealand Government have formally agreed to extend the last date for approval of the preliminary design of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • February 2015: SkyCity agrees to review the design of the New Zealand International Convention Centre following discussions with the New Zealand Government.
  • December 2014: SkyCity lodges its resource consent application for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre, Hobson St Hotel, additional car parks and a pedestrian laneway.
  • August 2014: Rob Hamilton appointed Chief Financial Officer.
  • August 2014: SkyCity announces approval of its concept design for the New Zealand International Convention Centre and its intention to build a new 300 room, 5 star hotel adjacent to the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • May 2014: James Burrell resigns as Chief Financial Officer.
  • February 2014: SkyCity’s Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement with the South Australian Government for the Adelaide Casino expansion project come into effect.
  • December 2013: SkyCity is included in the S&P/ASX 200 index.
  • November 2013: New Zealand Parliament passes the New Zealand International Convention Centre legislation allowing SkyCity to design, build, own and operate the New Zealand International Convention Centre adjacent to SkyCity Auckland in Auckland.
  • October 2013: South Australian Parliament passes legislation allowing SkyCity to undertake a significant expansion of the Adelaide Casino, including a new 6 star boutique hotel and VIP gaming suites.
  • June 2013: SkyCity acquires Wharf Casino in Queenstown.
  • March 2013: SkyCity short listed for new tourism development on the Gold Coast, Australia.
  • December 2012: SkyCity sells its shareholding in Christchurch Casino and acquires full ownership of SkyCity Queenstown.
  • December 2011: SkyCity announces NZ$185 million new unsecured bank facility.
  • February 2011: Christchurch Casino temporarily closed due to a devastating earthquake in February.
  • June 2011: SkyCity announced by the New Zealand Government as the preferred developer of a national convention centre in Auckland.
  • May 2011: James Burrell appointed as Chief Financial Officer.
  • April 2011: SkyCity wins Variety International Corporate Award for services to charity.
  • February 2010: SkyCity completes the sale of its cinemas business to Amalgamated Holdings Limited.
  • August 2009: SkyCity completes a further buy back of US$62.5 million (NZ$93 million) of US private placement debt.
  • July 2009: SkyCity completes a buy back of US$53 million (NZ$84.5 million) of US private placement debt.
  • May 2009: SkyCity completes a further NZ$43 million placement to retail investors under a share purchase plan and top up offer.
  • April 2009: SkyCity completes a NZ$185.3 million underwritten institutional placement of 71 million ordinary shares.
  • May 2008: Alistair Ryan appointed as Chief Financial Officer.
  • March 2008: Nigel Morrison appointed as Chief Executive Officer.
  • May 2006: SkyCity acquires remaining 50% of cinema joint venture from Village Roadshow.
  • June 2004: SkyCity purchases the Darwin casino and hotel, which is re-branded SkyCity Darwin.
  • 2004: SkyCity acquires a 40.5% shareholding in Christchurch Casino.
  • 2003 – 2004: “Sky City” is rebranded “SkyCity” group-wide.
  • September 2002: Sky City Hamilton opens.
  • September 2001: Renamed Sky City Entertainment Group Limited to reflect the group’s broadening scope.
  • March 2001: Sky City acquires a 50.2% interest in Force Corporation Limited, a cinema entertainment company, which is renamed Sky City Leisure Limited.
  • June 2000: Sky City acquires the Adelaide Casino in South Australia.
  • December 2000: Sky City Queenstown opens.
  • February 1996: Sky City Limited begins operation and lists on the NZX.
  • 1994 to February 1996: Sky City founded by Harrah's Entertainment & Brierley Investments Limited.
  • March 2020: COVID-19 pandemic temporarily closes all SkyCity properties in New Zealand and Adelaide, South Australia
  • October 2019: A significant fire broke out at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (under construction).
  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.
  • July 2019: SkyCity unveils re-brand.
  • May 2019: SkyCity announces plans to offer online casino gaming via international iGaming company Gaming Innovation Group Inc. 
  • April 2019: SkyCity has entered into a binding agreement to sell a long-term concession over its Auckland car parks to Macquarie Principal Finance Group for $220m. 
  • April 2019: SkyCity sells its Darwin business to Delaware North for A$188 million.
  • December 2019: SkyCity announces plan for share buy-back during 2019. 
  • May 2018: SkyCity signs construction contract for Adelaide expansion with Hansen Yuncken.
  • May 2018: SkyCity signs unconditional agreement to sell Federal Street car park for NZ$40 million to ICD Property Investment Limited.
  • October 2017: SkyCity acquires NPT Limited's Interest in AA Centre (12,000m2) in Auckland for NZ$47 million.
  • November 2016: Graeme Stephens appointed Chief Executive Officer.
  • May 2016: SkyCity signs an Early Works Agreement with the South Australia Government as part of the expansion of the Adelaide Casino and the broader development of the Adelaide riverbank precinct.
  • May 2016: SkyCity completes a NZ$263 million capital raising through an accelerated renounceable entitlement offer to existing shareholders.
  • April 2016: Nigel Morrison resigns as Chief Executive Officer, with John Mortensen appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer.
  • January 2016: SkyCity plans for the expansion of the Adelaide Casino are approved by South Australia’s Development Assessment Commission.
  • November 2015: SkyCity lodges its plans for the exterior design of the Adelaide Casino expansion with the South Australian design approval body, the Development Assessment Commission.
  • November 2015: The regulatory concessions under the New Zealand International Convention Centre Agreement with the New Zealand Government become available to SkyCity following signing of the building works contract with Fletcher Construction Limited for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • October 2015: SkyCity appoints Fletcher Construction Limited as the main contractor for the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Hobson St Hotel developments.
  • September 2015: SkyCity announces that the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Hobson St Hotel projects received resource consent approval from the Auckland Council.
  • September 2015: SkyCity allots NZ$125 million of unsubordinated, unsecured, redeemable, fixed rate, seven year bonds.
  • September 2015: SkyCity launches a Level 1, Sponsored American Depository Receipts programme with the Bank of New York Mellon.
  • August 2015: SkyCity announces its intention to issue up to NZ$100 million (plus up to NZ$25 million of oversubscriptions) of unsubordinated, unsecured, redeemable, fixed rate, seven year bonds.
  • July 2015: SkyCity announces that the Northern Territory Government’s gaming tax rate review for the SkyCity Darwin Casino has completed and new tax rates confirmed.
  • July 2015: SkyCity announces that its resource consent application for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre, the Hobson St Hotel, additional car parks, and a pedestrian laneway will proceed on a non-notified basis.
  • May 2015: SkyCity and the New Zealand Government agree the preliminary design and execute an amended agreement for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • April 2015: The Northern Territory Government imposes a Community Benefit Levy on SkyCity Darwin.
  • March 2015: SkyCity agrees commercial terms for the Adelaide Casino car park lease.
  • March 2015: SkyCity announces that it and the New Zealand Government have formally agreed to extend the last date for approval of the preliminary design of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • February 2015: SkyCity agrees to review the design of the New Zealand International Convention Centre following discussions with the New Zealand Government.
  • December 2014: SkyCity lodges its resource consent application for the development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre, Hobson St Hotel, additional car parks and a pedestrian laneway.
  • August 2014: Rob Hamilton appointed Chief Financial Officer.
  • August 2014: SkyCity announces approval of its concept design for the New Zealand International Convention Centre and its intention to build a new 300 room, 5 star hotel adjacent to the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • May 2014: James Burrell resigns as Chief Financial Officer.
  • February 2014: SkyCity’s Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement with the South Australian Government for the Adelaide Casino expansion project come into effect.
  • December 2013: SkyCity is included in the S&P/ASX 200 index.
  • November 2013: New Zealand Parliament passes the New Zealand International Convention Centre legislation allowing SkyCity to design, build, own and operate the New Zealand International Convention Centre adjacent to SkyCity Auckland in Auckland.
  • October 2013: South Australian Parliament passes legislation allowing SkyCity to undertake a significant expansion of the Adelaide Casino, including a new 6 star boutique hotel and VIP gaming suites.
  • June 2013: SkyCity acquires Wharf Casino in Queenstown.
  • March 2013: SkyCity short listed for new tourism development on the Gold Coast, Australia.
  • December 2012: SkyCity sells its shareholding in Christchurch Casino and acquires full ownership of SkyCity Queenstown.
  • December 2011: SkyCity announces NZ$185 million new unsecured bank facility.
  • February 2011: Christchurch Casino temporarily closed due to a devastating earthquake in February.
  • June 2011: SkyCity announced by the New Zealand Government as the preferred developer of a national convention centre in Auckland.
  • May 2011: James Burrell appointed as Chief Financial Officer.
  • April 2011: SkyCity wins Variety International Corporate Award for services to charity.
  • February 2010: SkyCity completes the sale of its cinemas business to Amalgamated Holdings Limited.
  • August 2009: SkyCity completes a further buy back of US$62.5 million (NZ$93 million) of US private placement debt.
  • July 2009: SkyCity completes a buy back of US$53 million (NZ$84.5 million) of US private placement debt.
  • May 2009: SkyCity completes a further NZ$43 million placement to retail investors under a share purchase plan and top up offer.
  • April 2009: SkyCity completes a NZ$185.3 million underwritten institutional placement of 71 million ordinary shares.
  • May 2008: Alistair Ryan appointed as Chief Financial Officer.
  • March 2008: Nigel Morrison appointed as Chief Executive Officer.
  • May 2006: SkyCity acquires remaining 50% of cinema joint venture from Village Roadshow.
  • June 2004: SkyCity purchases the Darwin casino and hotel, which is re-branded SkyCity Darwin.
  • 2004: SkyCity acquires a 40.5% shareholding in Christchurch Casino.
  • 2003 – 2004: “Sky City” is rebranded “SkyCity” group-wide.
  • September 2002: Sky City Hamilton opens.
  • September 2001: Renamed Sky City Entertainment Group Limited to reflect the group’s broadening scope.
  • March 2001: Sky City acquires a 50.2% interest in Force Corporation Limited, a cinema entertainment company, which is renamed Sky City Leisure Limited.
  • June 2000: Sky City acquires the Adelaide Casino in South Australia.
  • December 2000: Sky City Queenstown opens.
  • February 1996: Sky City Limited begins operation and lists on the NZX.
  • 1994 to February 1996: Sky City founded by Harrah's Entertainment & Brierley Investments Limited.

Locations

5 CASINOS across 4 LOCATIONS AND DIGITAL 

Auckland

Adelaide

Hamilton

Queenstown

SkyCity Online Casino

SKYCITY Locations

  • Auckland
  • Adelaide
  • Hamilton
  • Queenstown
  • DIGITAL

Auckland

SkyCity Auckland Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited, holds the casino venue licence for SkyCity Auckland.  This casino venue licence currently runs until 30 June 2048 (having been extended by the New Zealand International Convention Centre Project and Licensing Agreement dated 5 July 2013).

SkyCity Auckland is currently authorised to operate up to 150 gaming tables, 1,877 gaming machines and 240 fully automated table games.

Go to SKYCITY Auckland

SKYCITY Auckland History

  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.
  • January 2016: SkyCity Auckland celebrates its 20 year anniversary.
  • December 2015: Andy’s Burgers & Bar opens in a revitalised Auckland Atrium space.
  • December 2015: SkyCity and Kapiti partner to create a new Sky Café experience in the Sky Tower.
  • November 2015: SkyCity Auckland wins the Innovative Youth Employer Award at the inaugural ‘Young at Heart’ Youth Employer Pledge Awards.
  • September 2015: East Day Spa awarded both Oceania’s Best Hotel Spa and New Zealand’s Best Hotel Spa in the World Spa Awards.
  • September 2015: SkyCity Grand Hotel named as a finalist in the 2015 NZ Tourism Industry Awards for the Visitor Experience Category.
  • August 2015: SkyCity agrees to new guaranteed minimum hours for SkyCity Auckland staff.
  • August 2015: SkyCity confirms its plan to enhance its Auckland property with a major upgrade of its main Atrium space, costing approximately NZ$24 million.
  • June 2015: SkyCity commences a new shuttle service between its Auckland hotels and the Auckland Airport’s international and domestic terminals.
  • April 2015: Depot named as supreme award winner at the Metro Peugeot Restaurant of the Year Awards, with six Federal Street restaurants featuring in the Top 50.
  • March 2015: Federal Street restaurant pop-up brand, The Kitchen c/o SkyCity, officially launched.
  • November 2014: The revitalised Federal Street precinct is officially opened with a public festival.
  • October 2014: SkyCity achieves a Rainbow Tick certification, recognising it as an employer that encourages and affirms lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, takatāpui and intersex (LGBTTI) staff.
  • October 2014: SkyCity announces a new partnership with AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand that is to take over the operation of the iconic Sky Tower’s SkyJump and SkyWalk adventure tourism activities.
  • October 2014: SkyCity New Zealand Badminton Open brings 240 international players to Auckland.​
  • April 2014: SkyCity celebrates second annual Poppy Partnership with the Auckland RSA the RSA’s centennial year.
  • February 2014: SkyCity hosts ‘The Height of Fashion’ at The Sugar Club in Auckland.
  • October 2013: SkyCity Grand Hotel named as New Zealand’s Leading Business Hotel in the World Travel Awards in Dubai.
  • December 2013: New Black VIP gaming room opens.
  • October 2013: Nic Watt opens Japanese Robata restaurant MASU in the Federal Street dining precinct.
  • August 2013: The Federal Street dining precinct continues to expand with the opening of Al Brown’s Federal Delicatessen.
  • May 2013: Peter Gordon opens The Sugar Club on Level 53 of the Sky Tower.
  • November 2012: SkyCity Auckland Community Trust grants NZ$2.5 million to Auckland community programmes.
  • August 2012: Sky Tower celebrates 15 years as an icon on the Auckland skyline.
  • 2011: Redevelopment of levels 5 and 6 of the SkyCity Hotel into new VIP gaming spaces, EIGHT and Horizon.
  • September 2011: SkyCity and Steinlager open new sports bar, The Nation’s Clubrooms.
  • February 2011: Redevelopment of Federal Street with the introduction of three new restaurants - The Grill by Sean Connolly, Al Brown’s Depot and Red Hummingbird.
  • August 2011: Depot by Al Brown & Red Humingbird by Luke Dallow open on Federal Street.
  • August 2011: New Diamond Room opens.
  • August 2011: EIGHT opens as phase 2 of a major redevelopment of the VIP gaming facilities above the SkyCity Hotel.
  • July 2011: High-end International VIP ‘Horizon’ Suites and gaming salons open as part of a NZ$30 million development on top of the SkyCity Hotel.
  • May 2011: New Platinum Room opens.
  • 2009: SkyCity Auckland voted Australasia’s Leading Casino Resort at the 16th Annual World Travel Awards.
  • February 2008: Main Gaming Floor's first major refurbishment since opening is completed.
  • November 2007: SkyWalk, the new Sky Tower adventure experience, opens to thrill seekers.
  • December 2006: Bellota, a contemporary tapas bar designed by Peter Gordon, opens.
  • 2005: The SkyCity Grand Hotel opens for business, offering 5 star+ accommodation and a signature fine dining restaurant Dine by Peter Gordon.
  • 2004: The SkyCity Auckland Convention Centre opens to become the newest and most technically advanced convention centre in New Zealand.
  • 1997: Sky Tower, the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere, opens.
  • 1996: SkyCity Auckland casino and entertainment complex opens.
  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.
  • January 2016: SkyCity Auckland celebrates its 20 year anniversary.
  • December 2015: Andy’s Burgers & Bar opens in a revitalised Auckland Atrium space.
  • December 2015: SkyCity and Kapiti partner to create a new Sky Café experience in the Sky Tower.
  • November 2015: SkyCity Auckland wins the Innovative Youth Employer Award at the inaugural ‘Young at Heart’ Youth Employer Pledge Awards.
  • September 2015: East Day Spa awarded both Oceania’s Best Hotel Spa and New Zealand’s Best Hotel Spa in the World Spa Awards.
  • September 2015: SkyCity Grand Hotel named as a finalist in the 2015 NZ Tourism Industry Awards for the Visitor Experience Category.
  • August 2015: SkyCity agrees to new guaranteed minimum hours for SkyCity Auckland staff.
  • August 2015: SkyCity confirms its plan to enhance its Auckland property with a major upgrade of its main Atrium space, costing approximately NZ$24 million.
  • June 2015: SkyCity commences a new shuttle service between its Auckland hotels and the Auckland Airport’s international and domestic terminals.
  • April 2015: Depot named as supreme award winner at the Metro Peugeot Restaurant of the Year Awards, with six Federal Street restaurants featuring in the Top 50.
  • March 2015: Federal Street restaurant pop-up brand, The Kitchen c/o SkyCity, officially launched.
  • November 2014: The revitalised Federal Street precinct is officially opened with a public festival.
  • October 2014: SkyCity achieves a Rainbow Tick certification, recognising it as an employer that encourages and affirms lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, takatāpui and intersex (LGBTTI) staff.
  • October 2014: SkyCity announces a new partnership with AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand that is to take over the operation of the iconic Sky Tower’s SkyJump and SkyWalk adventure tourism activities.
  • October 2014: SkyCity New Zealand Badminton Open brings 240 international players to Auckland.​
  • April 2014: SkyCity celebrates second annual Poppy Partnership with the Auckland RSA the RSA’s centennial year.
  • February 2014: SkyCity hosts ‘The Height of Fashion’ at The Sugar Club in Auckland.
  • October 2013: SkyCity Grand Hotel named as New Zealand’s Leading Business Hotel in the World Travel Awards in Dubai.
  • December 2013: New Black VIP gaming room opens.
  • October 2013: Nic Watt opens Japanese Robata restaurant MASU in the Federal Street dining precinct.
  • August 2013: The Federal Street dining precinct continues to expand with the opening of Al Brown’s Federal Delicatessen.
  • May 2013: Peter Gordon opens The Sugar Club on Level 53 of the Sky Tower.
  • November 2012: SkyCity Auckland Community Trust grants NZ$2.5 million to Auckland community programmes.
  • August 2012: Sky Tower celebrates 15 years as an icon on the Auckland skyline.
  • 2011: Redevelopment of levels 5 and 6 of the SkyCity Hotel into new VIP gaming spaces, EIGHT and Horizon.
  • September 2011: SkyCity and Steinlager open new sports bar, The Nation’s Clubrooms.
  • February 2011: Redevelopment of Federal Street with the introduction of three new restaurants - The Grill by Sean Connolly, Al Brown’s Depot and Red Hummingbird.
  • August 2011: Depot by Al Brown & Red Humingbird by Luke Dallow open on Federal Street.
  • August 2011: New Diamond Room opens.
  • August 2011: EIGHT opens as phase 2 of a major redevelopment of the VIP gaming facilities above the SkyCity Hotel.
  • July 2011: High-end International VIP ‘Horizon’ Suites and gaming salons open as part of a NZ$30 million development on top of the SkyCity Hotel.
  • May 2011: New Platinum Room opens.
  • 2009: SkyCity Auckland voted Australasia’s Leading Casino Resort at the 16th Annual World Travel Awards.
  • February 2008: Main Gaming Floor's first major refurbishment since opening is completed.
  • November 2007: SkyWalk, the new Sky Tower adventure experience, opens to thrill seekers.
  • December 2006: Bellota, a contemporary tapas bar designed by Peter Gordon, opens.
  • 2005: The SkyCity Grand Hotel opens for business, offering 5 star+ accommodation and a signature fine dining restaurant Dine by Peter Gordon.
  • 2004: The SkyCity Auckland Convention Centre opens to become the newest and most technically advanced convention centre in New Zealand.
  • 1997: Sky Tower, the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere, opens.
  • 1996: SkyCity Auckland casino and entertainment complex opens.

Adelaide

On 30 June 2000, SkyCity assumed ownership and operational control of the Adelaide Casino. The Adelaide casino licence currently runs until 2085, with exclusivity in the State of South Australia until 2035.

SkyCity Adelaide is currently authorised to operate 200 gaming tables and 1,500 gaming machines.

Go to SKYCITY Adelaide

SKYCITY Adelaide History

  • May 2016: SkyCity signs an Early Works Agreement with the South Australia Government as part of the expansion of the Adelaide Casino and the broader development of the Adelaide riverbank precinct.
  • January 2016: SkyCity plans for the expansion of the Adelaide Casino are approved by South Australia’s Development Assessment Commission.
  • December 2015: Creation of new, contemporary ‘Horizon’ gaming salons to accommodate international gaming.
  • November 2015: SkyCity lodges its plans for the exterior design of the Adelaide Casino expansion with the South Australian design approval body, the Development Assessment Commission.
  • March 2015: SkyCity agrees commercial terms for the Adelaide car park lease.
  • January 2015: SkyCity completes the interim redevelopment of the Adelaide Casino with the establishment of new contemporary gaming spaces (including the Platinum, Black and Barossa gaming rooms) and two new signature restaurants, Madame Hanoi and Sean’s Kitchen.
  • February 2014: SkyCity’s Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement with the South Australian Government for the Adelaide Casino expansion project come into effect.
  • October 2013: South Australian Parliament passes legislation allowing SkyCity to undertake a  significant expansion of Adelaide Casino, including a new 6 star boutique hotel and VIP gaming suites
  • 2012: Introduction of Cent City, featuring 185 1c gaming machines and creation of the Backyard Bar, an outdoor bar at the northern end of the building featuring a large outdoor LED screen and overlooking the River Torrens.
  • 2011: Adelaide Casino awarded South Australia’s ‘Major Tourist Attraction’.
  • 2009: A A$5 million revamp of Marble Hall and the Chandelier Bar unveiled and opened to public.
  • 2005: SkyCity launches new facilities – new gaming areas, North restaurant, LOCO bar and a new entrance on North Terrace.
  • 2004: A A$20 million redevelopment of North Terrace 'South Side' commences.
  • 2000: SkyCity purchases the Adelaide Casino.
  • 1985: The Adelaide Casino, owned by the South Australian Government, opens for business.
  • May 2016: SkyCity signs an Early Works Agreement with the South Australia Government as part of the expansion of the Adelaide Casino and the broader development of the Adelaide riverbank precinct.
  • January 2016: SkyCity plans for the expansion of the Adelaide Casino are approved by South Australia’s Development Assessment Commission.
  • December 2015: Creation of new, contemporary ‘Horizon’ gaming salons to accommodate international gaming.
  • November 2015: SkyCity lodges its plans for the exterior design of the Adelaide Casino expansion with the South Australian design approval body, the Development Assessment Commission.
  • March 2015: SkyCity agrees commercial terms for the Adelaide car park lease.
  • January 2015: SkyCity completes the interim redevelopment of the Adelaide Casino with the establishment of new contemporary gaming spaces (including the Platinum, Black and Barossa gaming rooms) and two new signature restaurants, Madame Hanoi and Sean’s Kitchen.
  • February 2014: SkyCity’s Approved Licensing Agreement and Casino Duty Agreement with the South Australian Government for the Adelaide Casino expansion project come into effect.
  • October 2013: South Australian Parliament passes legislation allowing SkyCity to undertake a  significant expansion of Adelaide Casino, including a new 6 star boutique hotel and VIP gaming suites
  • 2012: Introduction of Cent City, featuring 185 1c gaming machines and creation of the Backyard Bar, an outdoor bar at the northern end of the building featuring a large outdoor LED screen and overlooking the River Torrens.
  • 2011: Adelaide Casino awarded South Australia’s ‘Major Tourist Attraction’.
  • 2009: A A$5 million revamp of Marble Hall and the Chandelier Bar unveiled and opened to public.
  • 2005: SkyCity launches new facilities – new gaming areas, North restaurant, LOCO bar and a new entrance on North Terrace.
  • 2004: A A$20 million redevelopment of North Terrace 'South Side' commences.
  • 2000: SkyCity purchases the Adelaide Casino.
  • 1985: The Adelaide Casino, owned by the South Australian Government, opens for business.

Hamilton

In June 2005, SkyCity completed the acquisition of full ownership of SkyCity Hamilton which opened in 2002. Previously, SkyCity was a joint venture partner (70%) with Perry Developments Limited (30%). The Hamilton casino licence currently runs until September 2027.

SkyCity Hamilton is currently authorised to operate 23 gaming tables and 339 gaming machines.

Go to SKYCITY Hamilton

SKYCITY Hamilton History

  • December 2015: Five new restaurants and bars opened at the City Co-Op space in SkyCity Hamilton’s beautifully restored Atrium space.
  • June 2015: SkyCity announces its plan to develop an exciting food and beverage precinct in the central city.
  • June 2015: Successful investment in new gaming facilities, including development of contemporary premium gaming spaces.
  • December 2014: SkyCity contributes NZ$450,000 to Hamilton community groups.
  • August: Four SkyCity Hamilton chefs dominate the 2014 Waikato Culinary Fare with Benjamin Liu awarded 2014 Commis Chef of the Year.
  • April 2014: Michelle Baillie appointed General Manager.
  • 2012: SkyCity considers development of new hotel in Hamilton, but ultimately decides not to proceed with the project.
  • 2011: Renovated Silk and Rebo restaurants open.
  • 2007: Rebo Restaurant and Bar opens.
  • 2007: Vue Bar opens.
  • 2006: Zone Sports Bar opens.
  • 2005: Riverside Entertainment Centre acquired.
  • 2005: Additional shares are purchased to achieve 100% ownership of the Hamilton complex.
  • 2002: Casino and entertainment complex opens.
  • December 2015: Five new restaurants and bars opened at the City Co-Op space in SkyCity Hamilton’s beautifully restored Atrium space.
  • June 2015: SkyCity announces its plan to develop an exciting food and beverage precinct in the central city.
  • June 2015: Successful investment in new gaming facilities, including development of contemporary premium gaming spaces.
  • December 2014: SkyCity contributes NZ$450,000 to Hamilton community groups.
  • August: Four SkyCity Hamilton chefs dominate the 2014 Waikato Culinary Fare with Benjamin Liu awarded 2014 Commis Chef of the Year.
  • April 2014: Michelle Baillie appointed General Manager.
  • 2012: SkyCity considers development of new hotel in Hamilton, but ultimately decides not to proceed with the project.
  • 2011: Renovated Silk and Rebo restaurants open.
  • 2007: Rebo Restaurant and Bar opens.
  • 2007: Vue Bar opens.
  • 2006: Zone Sports Bar opens.
  • 2005: Riverside Entertainment Centre acquired.
  • 2005: Additional shares are purchased to achieve 100% ownership of the Hamilton complex.
  • 2002: Casino and entertainment complex opens.

Queenstown

In December 2012, SkyCity acquired full ownership of Queenstown Casinos Limited. the venue licence holder for SkyCity Queenstown Casino (which opened in 2002). Previously, SkyCity was a joint venture partner (60%) with Skyline Enterprises Limited (40%). The Queenstown casino licence currently runs until December 2025. 

In June 2013, SkyCity acquired Otago Casinos Limited from Lasseters (NZ) Limited.  Otago Casinos Limited holds the casino venue licence for the rebranded SkyCity Wharf Casino, which opened in September 1999. The Wharf casino licence currently runs until September 2024.

SkyCity Queenstown is authorised to operate 12 gaming tables and 86 gaming machines and SkyCity Wharf Casino is authorised to operate 6 gaming tables and 74 gaming machines.

Go to SKYCITY Queenstown

SKYCITY Queenstown History

  • March 2015: Jono Browne appointed General Manager. 
  • April 2014: Richard Callander appointed General Manager.
  • March 2014: Major interior refurbishments at both SkyCity Wharf Casino and SkyCity Queenstown Casino completed, including an extensive upgrade to the Queenstown ‘Horizon’ room for international VIP customers.
  • September 2013: More than 40 community organisations across the Queenstown Lakes district benefit from SkyCity Queenstown Casino Community Trust grants totalling more than NZ$95,000.
  • July 2013: SkyCity acquires Wharf Casino in Queenstown.
  • June 2013: SkyCity sponsors New Zealand’s third annual Winter Games.
  • March 2013: SkyCity brings back the Queenstown Winter Festival Ball.
  • 2012: SkyCity sells its shareholding in Christchurch Casino and acquires full ownership of SkyCity Queenstown. 
  • 2011: SkyCity Queenstown hosts SkyCity Snowfest alongside Pokerstars.net. 
  • 2000: Casino and entertainment complex opens.
  • March 2015: Jono Browne appointed General Manager. 
  • April 2014: Richard Callander appointed General Manager.
  • March 2014: Major interior refurbishments at both SkyCity Wharf Casino and SkyCity Queenstown Casino completed, including an extensive upgrade to the Queenstown ‘Horizon’ room for international VIP customers.
  • September 2013: More than 40 community organisations across the Queenstown Lakes district benefit from SkyCity Queenstown Casino Community Trust grants totalling more than NZ$95,000.
  • July 2013: SkyCity acquires Wharf Casino in Queenstown.
  • June 2013: SkyCity sponsors New Zealand’s third annual Winter Games.
  • March 2013: SkyCity brings back the Queenstown Winter Festival Ball.
  • 2012: SkyCity sells its shareholding in Christchurch Casino and acquires full ownership of SkyCity Queenstown. 
  • 2011: SkyCity Queenstown hosts SkyCity Snowfest alongside Pokerstars.net. 
  • 2000: Casino and entertainment complex opens.

SkyCity Online Casino

SkyCity Online Casino provides a safe and fun place to play your favourite casino games online. SkyCity Online Casino is home to over 1,300 online games including big names like Evolution's Lightning Roulette table, the Mega Moolah Jackpot from Microgaming, and Quickspin's Sakura Fortune slot machine. A collection of IGT games can also be found on the site which are exclusive to SkyCity Online Casino. SkyCity Online Casino is operated out of Malta by Gaming Innovation Group on behalf of SkyCity Malta Limited (an independently operated subsidiary of the SkyCity Entertainment Group).

Go to SKYCITY Online Casino

SKYCITY Online Casino History

  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.
  • August 2019: SkyCity Malta launched SkyCity Online Casino operated by Gaming Innovation Group.

THE NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE

The New Zealand international Convention Centre ("NZICC") will be the country's premier convention centre.

Go to NZICC Site

The New Zealand International Convention Centre will be the country’s premier convention centre. It is the first dedicated space to cater for more than 1,000 people, enabling New Zealand to attract major international conferences as well as having capability for sporting events, theatre and musical performances.

SkyCity’s investment in Auckland totals more than NZ$700 million, which includes the NZICC facility, an adjacent laneway, expansion of car parking facilities and the development of a new 300 room, 5 star hotel.

There will be more than 1,000 jobs created during the construction phase and 1,140 jobs once the NZICC and Hobson St Hotel open, contributing to Auckland’s growth and reputation as a vibrant, internationally competitive city.

LetsPlay.Live

LetsPlay.Live (LPL) is one of Australasia’s leading esports entertainment companies in Oceania with over 350,000 registered gamers on their online tournament platform. Since July 2019 LPL is 100% owned by SkyCity Entertainment Group.

LPL is a leading tournament organiser, publisher, broadcaster and live activations business focused on developing esports content and competitive video game tournaments within the ANZ region. Esports is one of the fastest-growing entertainment sectors in the digital world and a multi-billion dollar industry as reported by Financial Times.

Go to LetsPlay.Live

LetsPlay.Live Auckland History

  • July 2019: SkyCity Entertainment Group increases to 100% ownership of Let’s Play Live
  • January 2018: World-class esports broadcast studio opens in the base of the Sky Tower in Auckland – ‘the home of esports’
  • October 2017: SkyCity Entertainment Group forms JV with Let’s Play Live Limited taking a 40% in the business
  • July 2019: SkyCity Entertainment Group increases to 100% ownership of Let’s Play Live
  • January 2018: World-class esports broadcast studio opens in the base of the Sky Tower in Auckland – ‘the home of esports’
  • October 2017: SkyCity Entertainment Group forms JV with Let’s Play Live Limited taking a 40% in the business