About ASB Greenlane Showgrounds
ASB Greenlane Showgrounds (formerly Auckland Showgrounds) is a major exhibition and events centre in the heart of Auckland. It occupies an 8-hectare site (owned by the Cornwall Park Trust and leased to the Auckland A&P & Industrial Shows Board) and offers over 18,000 m² of configurable indoor exhibition space (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.aucklandnz.com ). The complex is centred around the historic Logan Campbell Centre, an indoor arena that can be arranged for theatre audiences of about 3,000 people (www.scoop.co.nz ) (and banquet seating up to ~3,500 (www.scoop.co.nz )). The grounds also feature an outdoor “Village Green” forecourt and multiple large column-free pavilions.
The venue’s history is deeply tied to Auckland’s past. Its predecessor shows date back over 160 years (www.scoop.co.nz ) (newsroom.co.nz ), making it one of the city’s oldest event sites. The first Auckland A&P (Agricultural & Pastoral) shows were held on Auckland Domain in 1843 (nzhistory.govt.nz ). In 1910 the shows moved to Greenlane, when one of Auckland’s founding figures, Sir John Logan Campbell, secured a perpetual lease for the site (aucklandaandp.co.nz ) (nzhistory.govt.nz ). During World War II (1940–45) the grounds were even used as a military base (aucklandaandp.co.nz ) (nzhistory.govt.nz ). In 1972 an Act of Parliament formally protected the Showgrounds for the community, and “Royal” status was granted in 1989 as part of the newly-branded Royal Easter Show (aucklandaandp.co.nz ).
In the 2000s ASB Showgrounds underwent a major redevelopment to modernise its facilities. In 2006 a government grant (with Auckland City and ASB Bank as partners) launched a $26–$31 million upgrade (www.beehive.govt.nz ) (www.scoop.co.nz ). By 2010 this final stage was completed, adding a new sheltered entry front, entry foyer and high-roofed pavilions. Today a broad pedestrian “Logan Campbell Way” links the entrances at either end of the site, on axis with One Tree Hill (archipro.co.nz ). The renewal increased the flexible exhibition area and added a large food court, wine bar, meeting rooms and a massive covered concourse. As a result, ASB Showgrounds now serves as Auckland’s premier large-event venue, routinely hosting major trade shows and community festivals (www.scoop.co.nz ).
Owned and operated by a not-for-profit shows board (with ASB Bank holding naming rights since 2006 (www.scoop.co.nz )), the venue prides itself on blending heritage and versatility. The Logan Campbell Centre’s grandstand and scoreboard hint at its agricultural-show roots, while the adjacent 5,500 m² pillar-free pavilion can handle a sit-down gala for 3,500 people (www.scoop.co.nz ). A custom-built on-site Wi-Fi network ensures high connectivity for exhibitors and guests (www.scoop.co.nz ). In short, ASB Showgrounds is celebrated locally for its extensive capacity, historic charm and central location beside the rolling fields of Cornwall Park.
Events and Programming
ASB Showgrounds hosts a very broad mix of events, making it a year-round hub of activity. You’ll find consumer expos, trade fairs, markets, sport and entertainment events, corporate conferences and even unique festivals here. Major annual highlights include the Auckland Easter Show (a family festival with farm animals and carnival rides), the Auckland Food Show (culinary expo), the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, the Auckland Home & Garden Show, and the Armageddon Pop Culture Expo. Specialized events – such as Big Boys’ Toys, GABS Craft Beer festivals, bridal shows and sporting expos – also regularly fill the halls. Many ethnic and community organizations hold markets and cultural expos here too. In a typical non-pandemic year, the Showgrounds hosted well over 140 different exhibitions and attracted more than 1.2 million visitors (www.beehive.govt.nz ).
By design it is a versatile “multi-dimensional” venue. One week it might be a big industrial trade fair, the next a hipster market or high-tech conference. Its main halls are set up for booths and demonstration areas, while the Logan Campbell Centre stage has been used for concerts, comedy acts and award shows. (Notably, in 2018 international R&B star SZA performed here during a legendary summer concert run (thespinoff.co.nz ).) However, pop concerts can be hit-or-miss: some gig-goers have complained that the venue can be cold and acoustically echoey (thespinoff.co.nz ). As a result, promoters increasingly favour outdoors or purpose-built amphitheatres for big music acts.
Events at ASB Showgrounds range widely in ticket price. Family expos or farm shows often charge a modest entry fee (NZ$10–$25), and some have discounted family tickets. Mega-events like the Easter Show will typically have paid admission (often with children and concession rates). For example, general adult entry to the Food Show runs about NZ$30 (with early-bird sales around NZ$28 (foodshow.co.nz )), while VIP and preview day passes cost more (foodshow.co.nz ). Armageddon and other consumer fairs usually sell weekend passes or day passes (often NZ$20–$40). Usually tickets go on sale months in advance – it’s wise to book online early, since the bigger shows can sell out. Always purchase through the official promoter or ticketing agent to avoid scams. Throughout the year, you can find details on upcoming events via the AucklandNZ event site or on posters at the venue itself.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at ASB Showgrounds are generally purchased online through official channels. For most shows, you will buy tickets via the event’s box office or through major NZ ticket sites like iTICKET or Eventfinda. There is no permanent public box office at the Showgrounds – each event handles its own ticketing. Once tickets are released (often 2–3 months ahead), you can usually pre-purchase them on the promoter’s website or via iTICKET. Popular events like the Easter Show or big expos often offer early-bird discounts for advance purchases.
When booking, note that prices often vary by day and age. Weekend or “prime day” passes are typically a few dollars higher than mid-week. Kids’ tickets (or family packages) are common – for example, child tickets for preview days or kids’ days can be about half the adult price. VIP or “all-access” passes (if offered) might include extra perks (like lounge access or fast-track entrance) and cost more (as high as ~$100 for multi-day events (foodshow.co.nz )). Always read the fine print for any event – some festivals have strict age limits (e.g. 18+ only) or require you to print or show ID. Late in the day or at the gate, “door sales” are sometimes available but usually at a higher price, and can sell out early if the event is full. The safest strategy for sold-out shows is to get on a waiting list or last-minute resale site well before the date.
Many ASB Showgrounds events also occasionally allow on-site purchases. For example, the Easter Show has a physical ticket booth at the entrance during show days. However, it’s still advisable to line up early or go online – on busy days the booth can have long queues. Finally, keep an eye on social media or local press for announcements (especially for free community events or charity expos where tickets may not be needed, or where door sales and giveaways happen).
Seating and Layout
The ASB Showgrounds layout is sprawling and flexible. At its core is the Logan Campbell Centre – a large 3,000-seat indoor auditorium with bleacher-style seating and an end-stage configuration (www.scoop.co.nz ). This centre has retractable seating on a large flat floor; it is used for any event requiring a stage or grandstand. For concerts or formal presentations, the best seats are mid-to-front sections facing the stage. Note that some singers’ fans avoid the very back or under the overhang, as these areas have limited visibility and weaker sound. In fact, the Logan Campbell Centre has earned a reputation for “horse-trough” acoustics and a cold draft under the high roof (thespinoff.co.nz ), so long-sleeve clothing is wise for concerts.
Surrounding the Logan Campbell Centre are several interconnected exhibition halls and halls (over 18,000 m² in total (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.aucklandnz.com )). These halls are largely open-floor – most exhibitors will build temporary booths or kiosks along a central walkway. In a typical trade show, there are no fixed seats; visitors roam the booths. The best viewing spots in general admission events are simply at the front of each booth row or along the central concourse. For expos, “front rows” or corners near entrances often attract most footfall.
ASB Showgrounds has no traditional upper balcony or VIP sections like a stadium, but it does include new hospitality rooms and balconies added in the renovation. For example, higher platform areas along the concourse may be reserved for VIP guests during conferences. During large public shows, the grounds can also be configured festival-style; portable fencing can divide off premium standing areas or children’s zones in the Village Green. In most cases, whether an event is seated or general admission will be specified on its listing. If you need a guaranteed seat, choose a ticketed performance with assigned seating (often only the Logan Campbell Centre events have numbered seats). Otherwise, arrive early to stake out your spot on the floor or bring a portable chair where allowed.
One unique feature is the central concourse introduced in the last upgrade (archipro.co.nz ). This wide, covered pedestrian mall (Logan Campbell Way) runs the length of the venue, linking all halls and outdoors. It offers easy circulation and multiple entry points (front and back), making it simple to walk from the carpark to any exhibition hall. Acoustically, the halls have been engineered for events, but note that trade shows often have loud music or announcements; ear protection may be helpful for kids. In summary: for best sightlines, stick to mid-front areas facing stages or displays, avoid the extreme rear corners, and enjoy the vast open interior that can accommodate everything from 3,000 concert-goers to an 18,000-strong expo crowd (www.scoop.co.nz ).
Getting There and Parking
Location: ASB Showgrounds is at 217 Greenlane West, Epsom, Auckland (www.onlynz.co.nz ). It sits just beside Cornwall Park and Alexandra Park Racecourse, about 5 km south of downtown Auckland. By car, you can reach it via Green Lane West (off the Southern Motorway exit at Greenlane) or via Manukau Road. The venue is only minutes from the motorway (15–20 min from the CBD in off-peak traffic (www.aucklandnz.com )), making it convenient by road.
Driving and Parking: Onsite parking at ASB Showgrounds itself is limited and usually reserved for exhibitors or VIPs. Most eventgoers park at nearby Alexandra Park Raceway, which has a large lot (~2,000 spaces) and a designated event-parking service. For example, Alexandra Park offers full-day parking for around NZ$15 (www.alexandrapark.co.nz ). Access is via Campbell Crescent (off Manukau Road) or via Greenlane West; helpful attendants guide traffic on event days. Otherwise, normal street parking near Cornwall Park is very restricted. If you use a rideshare (Uber/Taxi), the main drop-off point is usually at the Gate 1 entrance on Greenlane West. Arriving 30–60 minutes early is wise on busy days to get a good spot in the Alexandra Park lot or nearby.
Public Transport: Several frequent bus routes serve the venue. Route 70 (Britomart ↔ Botany), route 30 (Queen St ↔ Onehunga), route 321 (Britomart ↔ Middlemore), and the free city-loop OuterLink all stop on Greenlane Road within a block of the grounds (www.onlynz.co.nz ). For example, you can take the City-to-Onehunga bus and alight near the Greenlane–Manukau intersection. Service run every 10–15 min during the day, but be sure to check schedules as frequency can drop late in the evening. The nearest train station is Greenlane (Southern/Airport Line), about 2.5 km away (~30 min walk) (www.onlynz.co.nz ) – you could catch a taxi from there. In summary: if you use transit, a Ⓜ train or bus to Greenlane/Onehunga station plus a short bus or taxi is often best, or take one of the direct bus lines along Green Lane West.
Accessibility: Ramps and drop-off areas are provided for disabled access. The Showgrounds has accessible parking bays on-site (ask the attendant for directions) (www.onlynz.co.nz ). Wheelchair users can enter through all main gates, which are flat at grade. Inside, all halls, stages and restrooms are wheelchair-friendly. Strollers and mobility scooters are common at family events. (If in doubt, call the box office of your event in advance to confirm any access needs.)
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: Standard entry procedures apply. On arrival, you’ll find multiple gates and ticket-check points. Security staff may do bag searches for large events, especially for concerts or the Easter Show. It’s best to travel light (small bags allowed, large luggage is not). Photography is usually permitted freely, except where explicitly restricted by the event promoter. Although the venue is not outdoors, it can be chilly under the high steel roof, so cardigan or jacket is advisable in cool weather.
Atmosphere and Layout: The interior vibe depends on the event. Trade exhibitions feel like big convention halls – rows of booths, bright lighting, AV presentations – buzzing with networking. Festivals like the Easter Show or GABS beer fest have more carnival energy, often with stages, music and thematic decor. The 2010 upgrade added a central food-court complex and lounge areas, giving the indoor space a more festive feel. There is usually a mix of open seating areas and standing-room plazas. Flooring is flat and level throughout, with wide aisles between exhibits. The ceilings are very high, so sound can carry; overall it feels very spacious and less cramped than a typical stadium.
Food and Drink: ASB Showgrounds boasts a large, purpose-built food hall, courtesy of the last redevelopment (www.scoop.co.nz ). This on-site food court offers hot and cold meals, snacks and coffee, and can seat hundreds (it was designed to serve up to 3,500 people (www.scoop.co.nz )). Outside the food court there are often temporary snack stands, food trucks or pop-up bars depending on the event. For example, at the Easter Show you’ll find carnival food stalls and international cuisine vendors; at beer festivals, local breweries and drink stands. The venue also has a permanent wine and cocktail bar in the main concourse (installed in 2006) (www.scoop.co.nz ). Alcohol is usually served only in designated areas (look for wristband-only or age-checked sections at festivals). If you want a sit-down meal before or after the event, nearby Alexandra Park has “The Alex Bar & Eatery” (a pub/restaurant) and The Paddock Bar, both popular for drink and dinner (www.alexandrapark.co.nz ).
Restrooms and Facilities: Clean, modern restrooms are conveniently scattered throughout the grounds – you should find at least one every few hundred metres. All contain accessible stalls and baby-change tables. There is typically no coat check at expos (it’s largely indoor, so coats just hang on chairs), but at formal events or large conventions you might find staffed cloakrooms at the entrance. A safe tip is to travel with minimal valuables since coat/check may not be available.
Connectivity and Services: A key feature is free Wi-Fi covering the entire complex (a result of the rebuild) (www.scoop.co.nz ). You can expect solid mobile coverage from all NZ carriers as well. Major events often have on-site info desks or an “info bus” for queries. ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS are accepted everywhere: food stalls and trades often take EFTPOS, and there are usually a few ATMs around the concourse in case you need cash. If attending a trade fair, bring business cards and a notebook (or device) – this venue is known for networking, and you’ll likely make a few valuable contacts.
Nearby Amenities
Just outside ASB Showgrounds is beautiful Cornwall Park, an urban oasis around One Tree Hill. It’s a great spot for a relaxing stroll or picnic before (or after) an event (www.aucklandnz.com ). In fact, local families often combine an Easter Show visit with a wander through the park’s rose garden. Right next door is Alexandra Park Raceway. Aside from parking, the Alex precinct has amenities: the **The Alex Bar & Eatery** (a pub/restaurant) and **The Paddock** bar and grill offer pub-food and drinks on site (www.alexandrapark.co.nz ), and they often open during major events. There’s also a BP service station at the raceway entrance if you need petrol or quick snacks.
For dining options, Greenlane and nearby Newmarket have plenty within a short drive. On Greenlane West itself you’ll find fast-casual eateries and cafes. If you want something quick, the on-site food court and festival vendors are usually sufficient. If you plan to make a night of it, Newmarket’s Broadway (under 3 km east) has a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bars and is only a 10-minute drive away. The residential area of Epsom also has a few local cafes and bakeries. Keep in mind that after large events (especially on Sundays), many restaurants near the venue close early. It’s wise to book dinner in advance if you have a popular place in mind.
Accommodation: Greenlane/Epsom isn’t a major hotel district, but there are handy options just minutes away. The Greenlane Manor Motel is often recommended for ASB Showgrounds visitors, since it’s literally a short walk from the venue (greenlanemanor.co.nz ). Otherwise the closest budget hotels (like the Best Western Newmarket) are just a few kilometres east. Downtown Auckland and the airport are about 15 minutes’ drive, so many visitors simply stay in the city centre and commute to Greenlane. For early-morning events it can be worth staying nearer, but for evening shows you have more flexibility. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola, etc.) cover the area well – there are usually plenty of cars around on event evenings, and they can drop you right at the main gate.
Transit Timing: Plan your travel time carefully around event schedules. If a show ends late (especially on Sundays), note that buses can be less frequent. The last buses from Greenlane to town might run by 10 pm on weekends. Taxis and rideshares remain available but eyed roaches. Walk down to Green Lane/Onehunga station for trains may also be slow late at night. A smart strategy is to arrange a pick-up or grab a hire car after your event before leaving – some events even run shuttle buses back to Newmarket or the airport. In any case, always check the latest AT Max/AT Mobile apps for up-to-date schedules on the night of your visit.
What Makes This Venue Special
ASB Showgrounds stands out for its blend of heritage and scale. Few event sites in New Zealand can claim over 160 years of history (www.scoop.co.nz ). It began as Auckland’s first A&P exhibition – the same agricultural fair tradition that birthed the Royal Easter Show. The legacy of Sir John Logan Campbell, who helped secure the Greenlane land for Auckland’s public benefit, is still evident today. In 2021 a local MP remarked that ending ASB Showgrounds would close a chapter on “more than 160 years of shows” (newsroom.co.nz ) in Auckland. That continuity is culturally significant – the Easter Show, for example, remains one of the country’s most beloved community events, linking generations.
The architecture and design also give ASB Showgrounds a unique character. The masterplan (by Archimedia) intentionally connects the modern with the historic. A new landscaped concourse and grand entrance align with One Tree Hill, honoring Auckland’s founding stories (archipro.co.nz ). The expansive “Logan Campbell Way” between halls feels more like a village street in the park than a sterile exhibition foyer. Meanwhile, the hallmark 72m-wide column-free pavilion and the mix of open lawns and enclosed halls let organizers build events exactly as needed (from carnival rides down on the grass to high-tech expo booths under cover).
Another hallmark is sheer size – it simply accommodates very large events. As one promoter noted, even Auckland’s newest venues can’t match ASB Showgrounds when it comes to hosting expos on a grand scale (newsroom.co.nz ). For instance, the annual Home or Boat Shows draw tens of thousands of visitors over a few days, with hundreds of exhibitors – something only a venue of this footprint could handle. Indeed, when the Christchurch Convention Centre opened, industry insiders remarked that its 5,000 m² hall could never fit a “Homes Show” the way Greenlane can. This makes ASB Showgrounds an irreplaceable asset in Auckland’s events scene. As one local says, it’s a real Auckland treasure, because “there’s nothing else that comes close to being able to host events at this scale” (newsroom.co.nz ).
Finally, the venue has become part of Auckland lore. For decades it was simply “the Showgrounds,” where memories were made at the Easter Show, or where kids learned about farm animals and carnival games. Today it’s equally where future tech is showcased (in robotics fairs, vehicle expos and more) and where families still chase the ice cream truck during a festival. This duality – historic community showground by day, slick expo centre by night – is rare. It’s why both artists and audiences love it: you get world-class facilities in a very Kiwi setting. In short, ASB Showgrounds is special for its history, for hosting events that cross generations, and for being the only place in Auckland where a Grand Parade and a major electronics trade fair can happen virtually back-to-back.
Visitor Tips and Information
ASB Showgrounds is generally very visitor-friendly. The entire venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible: ramps connect the halls and restroom facilities include accessible cubicles. If you need help, staff at the gate can direct you to lifts and parking bays. Speaking of which, always keep your entry pass or tickets handy after you enter, as you may need them to re-enter certain areas. There is free Wi-Fi on site (www.scoop.co.nz ), so you can check emails or push out social posts – great for bloggers or marketers doing live coverage.
What to bring: Wear comfortable shoes – the halls are large and you will walk a lot. Bring a jacket or sweater, as some areas (especially Logan Campbell Centre) can be quite cool. It's smart to carry a small umbrella or raincoat if there's a chance of showers, since you may need to move from outdoor parks to indoor halls. If you attend a family event, don’t forget sun protection (hat/sunscreen) – parts of the grounds are open to the sky. For expos, bring business cards or a notebook; for fun fairs, bring a small wallet or purse for purchases and snacks.
Policies: ASB Showgrounds has some standard rules. Large bags or backpacks may be inspected at entry for hazardous items. Outside food and alcohol are typically not allowed (vendors provide snacks and drinks), and glass bottles are usually banned. Most events enforce an under-18 policy after dark (especially at beer-and-cider festivals). Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas (ask staff if unsure). Dress is informal at most events, though at conferences you’ll see business casual. If you’re going to a formal dinner or gala, the invite will specify dress code.
Common mistakes: Don’t underestimate travel time. Auckland traffic can make the five-kilometre trip take much longer during peak hours or holiday weekends. Also, check if your event requires advance booking – some popular fairs are strictly ticketed. Arrive early on Sunday events, as parking and buses can be very busy by mid-day. Conversely, don’t rush. If the show is indoors, you can typically exit and re-enter freely, so you can take breaks (e.g. walk in the park) and come back without repurchasing your ticket. Finally, keep small children close; although the venue is safe and family-friendly, it’s easy to get separated in crowds.
Accessibility: We mentioned the ramps and lifts – also note that accessible toilets and hearing loop services are available. If you have special needs (e.g. sign-interpreters), contact the event organiser before the show. Wheelchair access is generally excellent throughout the site. Even the parking: the official guidance is that if you need disabled parking, just ask the carpark attendant on arrival and they’ll direct you to the closest bay (www.onlynz.co.nz ).
Age and safety: Children are welcome at most shows (many are geared to families). Some events (tradeshows or expos) might not have as much for kids to do, but generally the venue is safe and well-staffed. Fights or security issues are rare at the ASB Showgrounds – one opinion piece once called it Auckland’s worst live-music hall (citing some incidents) (thespinoff.co.nz ), but that was in the context of rock gigs. Today security is tight and the venue is very family-friendly (with wide, open sightlines so parents can watch kids). As always, just watch your belongings in crowds and keep valuables at home if possible. And if you do feel uncomfortable, there are security or information desks at hand during large events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity and size of ASB Showgrounds?
ASB Showgrounds offers about 18,000 m² of indoor (and adjoining outdoor) exhibition space (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.aucklandnz.com ). The main arena (Logan Campbell Centre) seats roughly 3,000 people (www.scoop.co.nz ), and it can be set up banquet-style for ~3,500. In practice the venue can host an event for up to 18,000 attendees spread across halls and lawns.
What kinds of events are held at ASB Showgrounds?
It hosts a huge variety: major expos (e.g. home & garden shows, boat show, food show, tech expos), large consumer fairs (Easter Show, bridal expos, geek-culture conventions), trade shows (automotive, manufacturing, etc.), plus occasional concerts or charity galas. Events run year-round, often on weekends and weekdays (over 140 shows/events per normal year (www.beehive.govt.nz )). Check the ASB Showgrounds or AucklandNZ events calendar for specific upcoming programmes.
How do I buy tickets for events at ASB Showgrounds?
Tickets are usually sold online through official ticket agencies (like iTICKET) or the event organizer’s website. ASB Showgrounds itself doesn’t have a permanent box office – each event handles its own ticketing. Look for an official “Buy Tickets” link when searching for your event. It’s best to buy in advance (many events sell out). On the day, some events may allow door sales, but prices can be higher and availability limited.
Where is ASB Showgrounds and how do I get there?
ASB Showgrounds is located at 217 Greenlane West, Greenlane (Epsom), Auckland (www.onlynz.co.nz ). By car, use the Southern Motorway exit at Greenlane. There is ample adjacent parking (see below). By public transit, catch any of several buses along Greenlane Road (routes 30, 70, 321, or the free OuterLink) which stop right near the venue (www.onlynz.co.nz ). The nearest train station is Greenlane (on the Southern/Airport line), about a 2–3 km walk away (www.onlynz.co.nz ).
Is there parking available, and what does it cost?
Onsite parking at ASB Showgrounds is limited. However, large events use the neighboring Alexandra Park raceway car park. Alexandra Park offers full-day event parking for about NZ$15 (www.alexandrapark.co.nz ) and can fill ~2,000 vehicles. If this fills, street parking near Cornwall Park is restricted. Alternatively, rideshare/drop-off at the main entrance on Greenlane. If any on-site spaces are used, the typical Showgrounds rate is roughly NZ$6 for the first hour and ~$2 for each additional hour (capped at $18/day) (www.onlynz.co.nz ).
Is ASB Showgrounds wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is generally accessible. All main entrances, halls and facilities have ramps or lifts. If you arrive by car, let the parking attendant know and they will direct you to a disability parking space (www.onlynz.co.nz ). Accessible toilets and priority seating areas are provided inside. The wide concourse and flat floors make it easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
What food and drink options are available inside?
The Showgrounds has a large built-in food court and permanent bars. A purpose-built food hall serves hot and cold meals (designed to cater thousands of people) (www.scoop.co.nz ). During festivals and expos, numerous food trucks and kiosks also operate. The on-site “The Alex Bar & Eatery” at Alexandra Park provides pub food next door (www.alexandrapark.co.nz ). Alcohol is typically only served in designated areas or VIP lounges depending on the event.
Is ASB Showgrounds an indoor or outdoor venue?
Primarily it’s an indoor exhibition centre, with multiple enclosed halls and the cover of the Logan Campbell Centre. In total it offers about 18,000 m² of covered space (www.scoop.co.nz ). There is also an outdoor grassy forecourt (“Village Green”) where fairs may run rides or tents. So most events are weatherproof under roof; only those with external attractions use the open spaces.
How do I get around once inside?
The interior is laid out with a central concourse linking all halls, so navigation is straightforward. Directional signs and staff are available during events. Walking distances can be long (the end-to-end length is a few hundred meters), so wear comfortable shoes. Each hall or expo zone is usually well signposted. Maps or programs for each event are often handed out at the entrance. Since it’s a single-level venue, it’s easy to move between booths and rooms – just follow the main aisles to get close to stages or displays.
What is the Logan Campbell Centre?
The Logan Campbell Centre is the name of the main indoor arena at ASB Showgrounds. It’s a historic 3,000-seat auditorium used for concerts, conferences and large presentations (www.scoop.co.nz ). It features retractable bleacher seating and a large flat floor in front of the stage. The venue is named after Sir John Logan Campbell, one of Auckland’s early leaders. In layout it’s the triangular “grandstand” building opposite the paddock.
Why is it called "ASB Showgrounds"?
The name comes from a naming-rights partnership with ASB Bank, which began in 2006 (www.scoop.co.nz ). ASB (formerly Auckland Savings Bank) became the first naming sponsor of the historic Showgrounds, hence “ASB Showgrounds.” The venue’s official title is a sponsor brand, but many locals still call it “Greenlane Showgrounds.” The partnership was chosen partly because ASB and the Showgrounds share a common founder (Sir John Logan Campbell) and community focus (www.scoop.co.nz ).
What should I NOT bring or do at ASB Showgrounds?
Generally, along with the usual event rules: large backpacks may be searched, and weapons or illegal items are prohibited. Outside alcohol is not allowed (you can buy drinks from onsite stands). Animals (except service pets) are banned. There’s typically no dress code – casual attire is fine – but remember it can be cold inside. Children under 18 might be restricted after dark at adult-oriented events (like beer expos). In short: treat it like any large public venue: check your ticket for show-specific rules, secure your belongings, and of course no smoking inside (designated zones only).
Is there free Wi-Fi and mobile signal?
Yes – ASB Showgrounds has free high-speed Wi-Fi covering most of the facility (www.scoop.co.nz ). You may need to register once. Cell phone signal is generally good throughout. This makes it easy to share photos or do mobile bookings during your visit.
