About AURFC Colin Maiden Park
AURFC Colin Maiden Park is a sprawling sports precinct in the St Johns area of Auckland, home to the Auckland University Rugby and Cricket clubs (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). This 19-hectare site was originally known as University Park and was renamed in 1994 to honor Sir Colin Maiden, a vice-chancellor who championed sports in education (www.aurfc.co.nz ). The venue combines multiple sporting fields with a clubhouse and bar, providing a relaxed club atmosphere set back from busy roads (www.aurfc.co.nz ). Unlike a seated stadium, it offers open lawns and fields surrounded by netball and tennis centers. The park contains full-sized rugby, soccer/football and cricket pitches (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ), plus a licensed clubhouse with kitchen, bar and lounge areas suitable for community and club events (www.aurfc.co.nz ) (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ).
Key features include its large open space (ideal for sports and outdoor events), a modern clubhouse with bar and AV equipment (www.aurfc.co.nz ), and extensive car parking (295 spots on site (www.aurfc.co.nz )). Elements of local history give it character: it was developed under Sir Colin Maiden’s vision and has hosted notable local sporting events. It is recognized by Auckland Council as a key regional sports facility, soon to be upgraded for domestic cricket and community sport (ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). For visitors, it’s essentially a friendly club venue with grassy viewing areas rather than indoor grandstands, which makes it unique on Auckland’s event circuit.
Events and Programming
Colin Maiden Park is principally used for sports and community events. The Auckland University Rugby FC (AURFC) stages its club matches here – senior, under-21 and junior rugby and touch games throughout the season. Women’s and children’s rugby, as well as university social games, are regular too. The grounds have also hosted domestic cricket: for example, Auckland Aces played Plunket Shield (first-class) matches here in early 2012 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Other recurring sports events include youth rugby Sevens tournaments (e.g. “Super7s” in 2013 (www.eventfinda.co.nz )) and school holiday sports programmes.
In addition to sports, the clubrooms are sometimes hired for social and entertainment events. In 2020 the venue held a “Pre-Season Kick-Off” fundraising party with live DJs (Lee Mvtthews & Sly Chaos) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Such events are one-off rather than seasonal, but they show the venue can host music shows, gala dinners or auctions under its roof and on the lawn. Community health and recreation events also occur (for example, free Tai Chi classes in Jan 2021 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) and a youth cricket fun day in 2018 (www.eventfinda.co.nz )). Typical event frequency is weekly during sports seasons (especially on weekends), with occasional weekend tournaments or midweek club events.
Most sporting events at the park are low-key and family friendly; entry is often free or by small donation. Occasional special events (like club dances or music nights) may require tickets. For instance, the 2020 club fundraiser sold tickets at around NZ$45 each (www.ticketfairy.com ) (plus fees). The price range for such ticketed events is generally moderate (roughly $20–$60), reflecting their local scale. Large concerts or festivals are rare here – it’s not generally a commercial concert venue. Visitors should check event listings or club announcements for exact dates and pricing closer to 2023–2025.
Tickets and Booking
Regular rugby or cricket matches at Colin Maiden Park typically do not use formal ticketing – most games are open to spectators with free entry or a small gate fee for adults (often under $10). If a specific event is ticketed, tickets are usually sold online or in advance. The club often notifies members and the public via its website or social media when tickets go on sale. For example, a 2020 rugby fundraiser was available through an online ticketing platform (around NZ$45 per ticket) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no permanent box office; for most events you’ll need to buy tickets online beforehand or at the door if they’re still available.
When booking is required, act early for popular events. There are usually different price tiers (standard, VIP or member discounts). Presales may be offered to AURFC members, with the public sale shortly after. For casual drop-in sports events, no ticket is needed – you just turn up on game day. Always confirm details (pricing, presale codes, etc.) through the official AURFC channels or event flyer, since third-party sellers and enterprising platforms may pop up.
Seating and Layout
Colin Maiden Park has a very informal seating layout. There are no fixed grandstand seats – most spectators watch from grass or simple benches. The main clubhouse has an indoor lounge with benches and tables, which can accommodate VIP guests or a few dozen people at community events. Outside, the biggest playing field (in front of the clubhouse) is typically used for major games. Fans usually stand or bring folding chairs along the sidelines or try to find spots on nearby grassy banks.
General Admission Areas: Open fields and lawns around the goal lines. For rugby matches or concerts, people spread out on the grass. Bringing a lawn chair or blanket is common for comfort.VIP/Seated Options: During large events, a small reserved area might be set up near the clubhouse or stage. Inside, the lounge area offers table seating (for example, at fundraisers).Best Viewing Spots: Typically along the halfway line for pitch sports, or near the clubhouse end of a cricket pitch. If an event stage is set up on the field, the lawn directly in front provides the clearest view.Areas to Avoid: There are no official restricted zones outdoors, but be aware of the sun – in daytime games one side of the field (north or south) may be sunnier. At night, without permanent floodlights, evening events rely on portable lighting, so pick a spot under light if possible.Acoustics/Production: The venue itself doesn’t have built-in concert sound/lighting rigs. Club-held events upgrade the AV: the clubhouse comes with a sound system and projector, and outdoor events bring in portable PA/speakers. (Avenue upgrades for sports lighting are planned, e.g. new hockey turf lights by 2026 (akhockey.org.nz ).)
Getting There and Parking
Location: Colin Maiden Park is located at 71–73 Merton Road, St Johns, Auckland (www.aurfc.co.nz ). The park occupies the block between Merton Road (north side) and Morrin Road (south side), just east of Stonefields Avenue (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). Vehicle access is primarily off Merton Road (near College Road roundabout) and Morrin Road (opposite Tamaki Drive intersection) (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ).
By Car: The venue offers about 295 off-street parking spaces (www.aurfc.co.nz ), which are generally free for event patrons. Follow Merton Road into the grounds and look for signs to the main car park near the clubhouse. Additional street parking is available on Merton and Morrin in the surrounding suburb (check for any local permit restrictions on weekdays but usually fine on weekends). During big events, it’s wise to arrive early (at least 30 minutes before start) to secure a spot.
Public Transport: Several Auckland Transport (AT) buses can get you close. Buses running through St Johns, Panmure and Glen Innes serve stops near Merton or Morrin Roads – for example, the Tamaki Link (TMK), routes 65, 75 or 76 via Panmure, and some Glenside services. The exact routes change, so check AT’s journey planner for “Merton Rd/St Johns” or “Stonefields” stops. The nearest train stations are on the Eastern Line: Panmure Station (about a 20-minute walk, slightly farther southeast) and St Johns Station (about 1.2 km north, roughly a 15-minute walk). From either station you can take a short bus (or walk via local streets) to reach the park. Tip: the Howard Hunter Avenue bus stop is just inside the park (3-min walk to clubhouse) and can be reached by certain feeders.
Rideshare/Taxi: Ride-share drop-offs work well via the Merton Road entrance. Taxis and Ubers can queue in the parking area after events (mobile app directions will do). During peak times, allow extra for slow traffic on the side roads. Walking: If staying or coming via St Johns village, you can walk south on Morrin Rd or College Rd toward the park (about 15 min from St Johns shops).
Inside the Venue
When you enter the clubhouse, expect a casual sports-club atmosphere. There’s usually a foyer or reception desk to scan tickets or check names at big events; otherwise staff will greet you. Security is minimal at most games, but major events may have bag checks. It’s friendly and informal – for example, fans often mingle over a drink before kickoff.
Food & Drink: The clubhouse has a fully licensed bar, so you can buy beer, wine and soft drinks indoors (www.aurfc.co.nz ). Many attendees grab snacks or reorder drinks at halftime or breaks. For larger events, you’ll often find external food stalls or BBQs in the yard (the 2020 Kickoff party offered on-site food and even a free drink with entry (www.ticketfairy.com )). For regular matches, there’s usually at least a cookie jar or small snacks near the bar, but formal catering happens only on scheduled event nights.
Facilities: Restroom facilities (including toilets and washbasins) are located by the clubhouse (gendered plus typically one accessible toilet). On match days the bathrooms stay open for fans. The clubrooms also include changing rooms and showers for players (www.aurfc.co.nz ); visitors should not use those, but all toilets and sinks are reachable on ground level (wheelchair-friendly). There is no official coat check or locker room for spectators, but items can be kept near your seat or under tables. Expect basic lighting indoors and minimal outdoor lighting, so plan accordingly when evening falls.
Atmosphere & Amenities: The overall vibe is down-to-earth Kiwi. Supporters often wear team jerseys, and it’s typical to see families and friends socializing. Wi-Fi is not advertised (cell coverage is decent in the clubhouse), so bring data if needed. Club merchandise (scarves, jerseys) may be available at a stand on big game days. Mobile tickets are usually accepted, but it helps to screenshot in advance in case signal is weak.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants & Cafes: The immediate neighborhood is suburban with mainly local eateries. Within a 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk you’ll find small cafes and takeaways (for example, cafés near the University’s Tamaki campus on Morrin Road). A popular spot is the local coffee shop or a fish’n’chips joint at the St Johns shopping area (north of the park). For a larger variety, the Parnell Village area (about 8 minutes drive) has restaurants and bars, as does the Ellerslie town center (~6 minutes away).
Beverage Before/After: There is no late-night bar outside club hours, so visitors often head to Panmure Wharf or central Auckland CBD pubs post-event. If you arrive early, note that bottle shops (liquor stores) in NZ close by 10pm, so plan drinks purchases accordingly before events (but remember you cannot take open alcohol onto the grounds).
Hotels & Lodging: There are no hotels adjacent. The nearest accommodations are likely in the city center (15–20 min drive) or around Mt Wellington/Greenlane. For example, Ellerslie has a motel and Panmure has a motor lodge by Queens Road (both ~10 min away). Business visitors sometimes combine a game here with a stay in town, since it’s closer to the eastern suburbs.
Arrival Tips: Give yourself extra time to park and walk in. For weekend games, locals recommend arriving 30–45 minutes early to avoid last-minute rush and to enjoy the pre-game tailgate atmosphere. If attending at night, remember trains and buses become infrequent late – check the schedule or arrange a ride-share pick-up in advance. There are no major stores open nearby late, so eat beforehand or bring snacks if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
Colin Maiden Park is beloved for its local, grassroots atmosphere. It stands out as one of Auckland’s largest open sports parks, uniting multiple sports under one “campus” style roof (ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ) (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). Rather than a cold corporate arena, it has the charm of a community club with cheering on the sidelines. Fans and players alike appreciate that it’s named after an academic leader – Sir Colin Maiden – preserving a legacy of combining education with athletics (www.aurfc.co.nz ).
Historic sporting moments give the venue character. In March 2012 it hosted top-level regional cricket (Auckland Aces matches) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), and each winter the rugby fields come alive with varsity competition. The upcoming redevelopments (new high-performance cricket oval and hockey turfs by 2026) highlight how the park is evolving into a central sports hub (ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ) (akhockey.org.nz ). This blend of old-school club spirit and cutting-edge facilities is rare in Auckland.
For performers and local teams, Colin Maiden offers intimacy. Musicians enjoy a close crowd and a relaxed setup not found in big venues. Athletes enjoy flat, high-quality grass fields; coaches like the roominess for training. Families love it because it’s open and safe (dogs on leashes are allowed in general, and the environment is smoke-free (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ) (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz )). In short, AURFC Colin Maiden Park feels like a sports festival every time – it matters because it keeps Auckland’s community sport thriving in one shared precinct.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The clubhouse entrance is ground-level and ramps are provided where needed. There are designated accessible toilets inside. Lawn areas are mostly flat, but keep in mind grass can be harder to navigate for wheelchairs once you leave the paved paths. If you need assistance, event staff are usually available.
What to Bring: Arrive dressed for the weather – it’s a partially open campus. Sunscreen, a hat and a jacket are wise for an outdoor game. Insect repellent can help if evening events run at dusk. Folding chairs or picnic blankets improve comfort on grassy viewing areas (though large sports crowds often stand). Consider ear plugs if visiting during a loud concert. NZATMs may not be onsite, so bring sufficient cash or card for food and tickets.
Prohibited Items: Outside alcohol and glass bottles are not allowed (the club has a bar for licensed drinks). Weapons or illegal substances of course are banned. For most events the club has a clear-bag or no-bag policy, so pack light. Smoke and vaping are banned in the park by law (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ), so step outside the grounds if you must smoke.
Age and Dress Code: Dress is very casual – jeans, team jerseys or whatever’s comfy. There’s usually no formal code. Events are generally family-friendly and open to all ages. Some social nights might be 18+, but open-air sports days welcome kids and all ages.
Common Mistakes: Don’t assume it’s indoors – events in the clubrooms are sheltered but games are watched outside in the open air. Check the event start time carefully (gates often open an hour early, but earlier if it’s a popular match). Also, double-check whether an event is on a weekday or weekend; rush hour traffic can delay arrivals. Lastly, remember dogs must stay on leash anywhere in the park (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ), and cleaning up after pets is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AURFC Colin Maiden Park used for?
It’s a sports and events venue. Mainly it hosts Auckland University rugby club matches (men’s, women’s and juniors) and community sports (cricket, hockey, netball, etc.). Occasionally it’s used for club social events or local concerts. Check AURFC’s schedule for exact dates and types of events.
What is the capacity of Colin Maiden Park?
There is no official fixed seating. The grassy fields can hold a few hundred spectators comfortably. Since views are open, you’ll mostly stand or sit on grass. Think of it as a few hundred-person venue, not a large stadium.
Are there permanent seats or grandstands?
No. There are no permanent bleachers. Most viewing is on open grass or on benches/tables inside the clubhouse. Visitors often bring folding chairs or stand along the sidelines. The clubhouse lounge has some seating if an event is indoors.
Do I need to buy tickets for matches?
Most local club games are free to attend or require a small donation. If an event is ticketed (for example, a club fundraiser or feature match), those tickets will be sold online or beforehand by the organizers. Always check the event listing; casual sports fixtures usually don’t require tickets.
Where can I buy tickets?
When events are ticketed, tickets are typically sold through the club’s official channels (like their website or approved online outlets). For example, past AURFC events have used online ticket sales. There is no permanent box office on site, so plan to purchase tickets online before the event. Occasionally limited door sales may exist if tickets remain.
Can I buy tickets at the venue?
Usually no. Because most games are free or pre-ticketed, there is rarely a walk-up ticket booth. If organizers allow on-site sales (for instance, a charity match), that would be rare. It’s best to assume you need to buy online in advance or use any contact listed for the event.
What is the address of Colin Maiden Park?
The address is 71–73 Merton Road, St Johns, Auckland 1072 (www.aurfc.co.nz ). It’s at the corner of Merton and Morrin Roads. GPS coordinates or map apps using this address will take you directly to the club driveway.
Is there parking, and is it free?
Yes, the club has a large free car park with about 295 spaces (www.aurfc.co.nz ). Event patrons can use this on-site parking at no charge. If that lot fills up, street parking is available on Merton and Morrin Roads (usually not metered on weekends). Always arrive a bit early if it’s a big game to get a spot.
How can I get there by public transport?
Several AT buses run nearby. The Tamaki Link (TMK) and routes 65, 75, 76, 747 (via Panmure/Stonefields) all stop within a 5–10 minute walk of the park. From downtown, you could also take the Eastern Line train to Panmure or St Johns stations and then walk or catch a local bus (both stations are about a 1–2 km walk away). Use the AT journey planner for “Merton Rd/St Johns” to find exact routes and times.
What is the closest train station?
The closest is St Johns Station on Auckland’s Eastern Line, only about 1.2 km north (15 minute walk) via Morrin Road. Panmure Station is a bit farther (around 1.5 km east, ~20 minute walk) but has frequent service. From either station you can catch a short bus or taxi to Merton Road if you prefer not to walk.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The clubhouse entry is level with ramps for wheelchair access. Inside are accessible restrooms. The grounds are flat grass; there are paved paths leading to seating areas by the clubhouse. Keep in mind that deep turf can be challenging beyond paved areas, so access to outside fields is on mostly flat ground.
Can I bring my own food or alcohol?
Outside alcohol is generally not permitted, as the club has a fully licensed bar on premise (www.aurfc.co.nz ). You cannot bring glass bottles or liquor into the park. Simple snacks (sandwiches, water) are fine unless the event explicitly bans outside food. Most visitors use the on-site bar or food stalls provided during events. (Remember, there are alcohol-ban rules in public Auckland parks, so it’s safer to purchase drinks on site.)
Are pets or dogs allowed inside the park?
Because it’s a public park, leashed dogs are allowed in open areas (as per council rules). However, pets must stay outside the clubhouse building. If you bring a dog, keep it on a leash and clean up after it. During some events (like a large match or party), dogs may be discouraged – check event notes if unsure.
Is smoking allowed at the venue?
No. Auckland Council mandates that all parks are smokefree (new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). This means you cannot smoke or vape on the grounds or near building entrances. If you need to smoke, you must leave the park area completely.
Are restrooms available?
Yes. Guest restrooms are in the clubhouse building. They include standard toilets and an accessible toilet. They operate during games and events. If you arrive early, you can use them before heading to the fields. (Changing rooms are separate facilities for players.)
Are there food and drink vendors onsite?
The clubhouse bar sells beer, wine and soft drinks (www.aurfc.co.nz ). For food, the club usually has light snacks inside. Some larger events bring in additional food trucks or a BBQ area on the grounds (for example, the 2020 Kickoff event provided on-site food (www.ticketfairy.com )). For regular sports matches, options are limited, so dining beforehand is a good idea.
Is it family-friendly and are there age restrictions?
In general, yes – it’s family-friendly. Daytime sports matches welcome all ages (kids often play nearby). The facilities are used for school and youth events too. Most evening social events are also all-ages unless specifically flagged 18+ (alcohol is served, so parents should use judgment). Always check the event poster for any age limits if it’s a private party.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before kickoff or showtime. Gates often open an hour early for events to allow parking and mingling. This gives you time to find a good spot, visit the bathroom, or grab a drink before the start. If it’s a popular event, you may want even more time.
