About Ellerslie Event Centre
Ellerslie Event Centre (soon rebranded as “Ellerslie Events” under Auckland Thoroughbred Racing) is a large convention and function complex set within Auckland’s historic Ellerslie Racecourse grounds (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ) (www.scoop.co.nz ). Opened in the early 2010s, this venue quickly became one of Auckland’s premier event destinations. It sits just 10–15 minutes southeast of downtown (around 6–7 km from Queen St), with easy access via the Southern Motorway and local train and bus lines (www-eur.cvent.com ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The centre spans 88,426 sq ft of meeting space (approximately 8,200 m²) and offers 22 configurable function rooms, accommodating anything from intimate meetings for a dozen people up to banquets and expos of 1,200 guests (www-eur.cvent.com ) (www.myguideauckland.com ). In 2013 it earned a 4-Star Plus Qualmark rating for excellence (www.scoop.co.nz ), highlighting its high-quality facilities and service. Surrounded by lush lawns and the famous racecourse backdrop, Ellerslie’s park-like setting is a distinctive feature – the venue promises a “picturesque setting” far from the usual boardroom, yet only minutes from the city (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Ellerslie hosts a remarkably diverse range of events. It is primarily geared toward conferences, expos and corporate functions, but it also sees community fairs, trade shows and gala dinners. Typical events include industry expos (such as the annual House of Travel and Beauty expos), B2B trade shows, technology seminars, charity auctions and even the occasional sporting or entertainment night. Recent examples include the “NZ2023” International Stamp Exhibition (May 2023), the Auckland Hair & Beauty Expo (Mar 2023), martial arts tournaments like Trade Wars (Aug 2023) and the CatWalk trust’s Luminary charity gala in June 2024 (www.catwalk.org.nz ) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Recurring events often use its large halls: e.g. the popular Bride & Groom Wedding Show and Auckland Garden Show have been held here (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ).
Music concerts and theatrical performances are less common (the venue is not a purpose-built concert hall), but it does occasionally host dinner-dance events, cultural festivals or private shows. Many evenings are bookended by formal dinners or corporate galas; for example, in 2024 the Centre’s Newmarket Room was the setting for Luminary – a high-profile charity dinner with auction (www.catwalk.org.nz ). Because of its versatility, Ellerslie is a go-to for everything from industry conferences to community expos, business summits, training workshops and product launches. Events can occur on weekdays or weekends, and some large exhibitions run for multiple consecutive days.
Ticket prices vary widely by event type. Community expos or public fairs are often free or low-cost ($10–20NZD), whereas business conferences, seminars or gala dinners may charge $100–300 or more per person. High-profile charity events or gala dinners (often sold as table packages) can be several hundred dollars a head, while educational workshops typically run in the mid-hundred range. Since seating is often limited for popular events, tickets can sell out quickly. Organisers sometimes offer early-bird or group rates, and charity evenings often have fundraising incentives. In all cases, buying in advance through official outlets is recommended for major events. The venue’s management also occasionally runs its own loyalty or corporate packages for bookings (especially for multi-day conventions), though most public ticketing goes through each event’s promoter.
Tickets and Booking
Ellerslie does not have a general box-office that sells tickets to the public on demand. Instead, event tickets are sold through the individual event organizers or official ticketing platforms. For public events like expos or gala dinners, tickets normally go on sale weeks or months in advance, often via websites or local ticketing agencies. There is typically no walk-up counter for general admission. Very occasionally, small events may offer door sales at the venue if not sold out, but this is not guaranteed.
Strategies for securing tickets: Subscribe to event newsletters or mailing lists, and follow announcements on official event pages. Many large expos and conferences have early-bird offers or group discounts, so watch for sale start dates. Popular events (charity galas, corporate conferences, etc.) often sell out, so plan to purchase tickets as soon as available. It’s also useful to check if combined hotel-event packages exist: for example, Novotel/Ibis Ellerslie often bundles room nights with local conferences (m.scoop.co.nz ).
At the venue during events, registration desks handle check-in; they typically require photo ID for badge collection (especially for trade shows or corporate events). Give yourself extra time for entry queues and security checks at major events. Refund and resale policies depend on the event organizer – if an event is sold out, look for any authorized resale or exchange notices on the official site. Always avoid unofficial resellers to prevent scams.
Seating and Layout
Ellerslie’s interior is highly flexible. The largest rooms (the Newmarket Room and Guineas Ballroom) can be set up in theatre style to seat about 1,100 or cocktail style for roughly 1,200 people (www-eur.cvent.com ) (www.myguideauckland.com ). Banquet (round-table) seating maxes out around 900, classroom style about 500, and boardroom up to 60 (www.myguideauckland.com ). Many other medium halls (like the New Zealand Room or Great Northern Room) seat 200–350 in theatre style. Smaller meeting rooms or lounges suit 20–150 guests (for example, the Remuera Room up to 150, Pakuranga Hunt up to 170, Goldstar Lounge up to 120 as per venue specs (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz )). There is also an expansive outdoor terrace and lawn area (the Cuvée space) that can hold up to 800 cocktail-style or a few hundred seated on the grass (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Large trade expos often spill across multiple halls on different floors, connected by central foyers and escalators (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ).
For audiences, optimal seating depends on event type. In large theatre setups, centre sections and mid-rows usually provide the best sightlines and sound balance. (The venue staff often position speakers and podiums so that front-center and front-half seats are most ideal.) Side or very rear seats may suffer slight angle or sound delay, especially in the huge halls. For banquets, nearer the stage or dancefloor is great. In multi-level rooms like Silks , the three-tier lounge layout has plasma screens at each table, so seating on any tier has good visibility of the foyer/podium area (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). During exhibitions, there are no fixed “seats” – visitors roam the booths, so place yourself near kiosks when needed.
Ellerslie’s loading docks and corridors are wide, making it relatively easy to navigate carts or equipment. All public rooms are on or easily accessible from the ground floor by ramps or elevators (wheelchair access is provided at all main halls). The acoustics indoors are generally clear and carefully managed by the in-house AV team (Edwards Sound often provides full service). Overall, the centre’s modern design yields good sightlines and sound coverage, but as with any large hall one should avoid standing right beside amplifying speakers or under balconies to minimize echo or hotspots.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The venue’s street address is on Ascot Avenue at Ellerslie Racecourse (Remuera), about 6–7 km southeast of the CBD. It’s adjacent to local highways: take the Ellerslie-Panmure Highway (Great South Road) or State Highway 1, exiting near Ellerslie. Driving is straightforward via the Mt Wellington or Ellerslie off-ramps. As of late 2024, the designated event carpark entrance has moved – attendees should enter via 16 Derby Downs Place (off Ascot Ave) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). This infield lot replaces the older Southern Motorway carpark entrance. Parking is extensive and complimentary for event guests (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ), but spaces fill up on big-event days, so it’s wise to arrive early. The lot is on a first-come basis, with some marked accessible spots. Ride-share and taxi drop-offs are best done at the Derby Downs entrance as well (follow the posted “Ellerslie Events” signs).
Public Transit: Ellerslie is well-served by public transport. The closest train station is *Ellerslie Station* (Southern and Eastern Line), roughly a 10–15 minute walk (or short bus ride) from the venue. From the city centre, trains run every 15–30 minutes, and Ellerslie is only 2 stops from Britomart (downtown). Several buses stop near the racecourse. Key routes include the AT Metro 70/70H (Britomart to Botany via Ellerslie) and 298 (Onehunga to Sylvia Park via Ellerslie), all of which have stops a few blocks from the venue. For example, the stop at Allevia Hospital on Great South Rd is a 5–8 minute walk from the main entrance (moovitapp.com ) (moovitapp.com ). No special shuttle is usually needed, but major trade fairs sometimes coordinate extra buses from Auckland’s CBD. Ask event staff for the closest bus stop name or use Google Maps with “Ellerslie Racecourse” as a destination.
Walking/Other: There are also several local taxi companies and rideshare drivers who cover Ellerslie (disabled-accessible cabs are available on request). Cyclists should note that there is no secure bike locker on site; most visitors ride to nearby Ellerslie village first. The grounds are mostly flat, but it’s a 1–2 km walk from the Ellerslie town centre or Pakuranga Rd, so public/road transport is easier. On foot, a pleasant route is via the aptly named *Derby Street* (leading from Ellerslie town up to Derby Downs Place) or via the Greenlane/Ellerslie Walkway near MOTAT.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests typically check in at registration desks in the foyer of the designated hall (there are separate entrances for each major room). Security staff may quickly verify tickets and scan bags; large backpacks or prohibited items (see below) may require stowing. There is often a coat-check near the main foyer (staffed at large events) – otherwise there are cloakroom racks. During an event, the atmosphere is professional but can range from formal (business conferences) to casual (trade fairs or community events) depending on the event type. � Event staff and ushers are on hand throughout.
Food & Drink: Ellerslie has a full in-house catering team making the food and beverage offerings. The on-site bars (e.g. the Goldstar Lounge and Silks bar) serve beers, wine and cocktails throughout most events (licensed until late night if granted by ATR). There is no outside food or drink allowed – only the center’s bar or catering service may sell alcohol (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Many events include optional meal packages or lunch buffets; on exhibit days you’ll often find casual food courts or food trucks in adjacent foyers or outdoors. The racecourse-side *Acacia Restaurant & Bar* (in Novotel) is also accessible for pre- or post-event meals (m.scoop.co.nz ). Complimentary tea/coffee stations and water jugs are usually provided for conference sessions, but bring your own mug or bottle for convenience.
Atmosphere & Comfort: The venue is entirely carpeted and fully air-conditioned/heated so it stays comfortable year-round. Ambient noise is low during presentations and rises during social trading times. Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue (included for guests or via a paid network) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Restrooms are plentiful and modern, on every floor (gender-neutral and accessible stalls included). Emergency exits and signage are well-marked. There are cloakrooms, wide elevators, and multiple stairwells for easy flow. Small rooms often have daylight (some even with racecourse views), while the large halls use skylights and banks of windows – expect bright interiors, so sunglasses or a sunhat might be handy if you spend time on the shady outdoor lawn. Mobile phone service is reliable (all NZ carriers) and charging outlets / charging stations can often be found at registration tables and foyers.
Cameras and Recording: Personal photography is generally allowed (people often take photos at weddings or conferences), but professional cameras or video gear may require permission from the event organizer. Flash photography might be restricted during formal presentations. Live streaming or drone use is typically prohibited without prior approval due to privacy and safety policies. The small meeting rooms have built-in AV (projector, screen, mic) and larger halls have robust sound/lighting rigs (Edwards Sound provides full production). If you need any tech assistance, speak to your event’s tech coordinator or the on-site technician. Generally, AV and lighting designs are high-quality, so seating anywhere in the central floor should give a good view of screens and speakers.
Nearby Amenities
The immediate area around Ellerslie Events Centre offers a few convenient dining and lodging options. The **Novotel Auckland Ellerslie** (adjacent to the venue) has 247 rooms plus the Acacia Restaurant & Garden Bar serving modern New Zealand cuisine (m.scoop.co.nz ). Next door is the **Ibis Auckland Ellerslie** (same building complex), a more budget-friendly hotel. Both hotels offer event packages and are within easy walk. For casual meals, the trendy **Yard Bar & Eatery** (on the corner of Great South Rd and Ellerslie-Panmure Hwy) is just a few minutes’ drive away – it’s a relaxed pub serving steaks, burgers and seafood. On Remuera Rd (about 1 km north) there are dozens of cafes and bistros – notable ones include **Dulcie** (contemporary NZ menu) and local sushi or Indian spots. For a fun break, the **Holey Moley mini-golf bar** (on Shirley Rd) is nearby with drinks and snacks.
Public amenities include a small shopping strip at Ellerslie town centre (about 10–15 min walk) where you’ll find petrol stations, a Superette, pharmacy and a vid, and a mall at Panmure just beyond. The Ellerslie War Memorial Park (next to the racecourse) has public restrooms and a children’s playground if visiting families need a break. After events, there are a few bars in Remuera (Epsom & Dominion Rd area) for late-night drinks, but note the area is fairly residential so most nightlife centers are downtown or Newmarket. If staying overnight, the Novotel has a gym, and you’ll find several other midrange hotels within 3–5 km (e.g. near Mt Wellington or the airport). Public pay-parking beyond Ellerslie is limited, so the venue’s free car park is a major convenience for attendees.
What Makes This Venue Special
Ellerslie stands out because it combines a big-city event centre with a unique racing heritage ambiance. Few Auckland venues offer such a park-like experience: you’re surrounded by the historic Ellerslie race-thoroughbred grounds, with grassed terraces and horse-racing artwork decorating the interior. In fact, some of the original racecourse tote machinery is on display in the foyer – a nod to the venue’s roots. This setting gives events an open, airy feel, and many hosts remark how it differs from windowless convention halls. The grounds are also home to sustainable gardens: the catering team often uses herbs and vegetables grown on-premise for their menus (www.scoop.co.nz ), adding a “farm-to-table” vibe that impresses many guests.
Architecturally, the Centre showcases functional modern design with a touch of luxury. For example, the Silks lounge has a triple-deck layout and plasma screens built into each table, letting organisers do creative interactive presentations at dinner events (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Large glass windows and skylights flood rooms with natural light and give views out onto the track and lawns. All rooms are air-conditioned and carpeted, and equipped with high-tech audio-visual systems. There is also ample on-site support: a full-time technology technician from Edwards Sound is based here (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ), so even complex lighting or sound setups run smoothly. The venue’s longstanding staff and conference managers are known for being highly professional and attentive – many customers say the account managers go “above and beyond” to theme rooms or coordinate events.
Culturally, Ellerslie Events Centre is important to Auckland’s social calendar. It’s one of the few large-capacity venues east of the city centre, reducing travel burden for South/East Auckland events. The Center’s resurgence coincided with the 150th anniversary of NZ racing, reinforcing its regional pride. And with the 2023 merger of Auckland Racing Club and Counties Racing Club, the rebranded Auckland Thoroughbred Racing organization is investing heavily in Ellerslie, ensuring it remains a flagship. In summary, the combination of size, modern amenities, convenient location, and that distinctive racetrack charm makes Ellerslie a beloved venue. Both local organisers and international guests often comment that it feels both “spacious like a conference centre” and “friendly like a country clubhouse.” (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Yes – Ellerslie Events Centre is wheelchair-accessible. Entrances, lifts and escalators connect all major floors. Handicap parking is available near the entrance (with advance notice). Accessible restrooms and seating areas are provided in all halls. If you need assistance (companion seats, hearing loop, etc.), contact the organizers or ATR staff ahead of time and they can accommodate you.What to Bring: Always have your printed or mobile ticket ready – many events scan QR codes or barcodes at the door. Bring a photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) if you plan to buy alcohol or prove age. Carry a sweater or jacket: even in summer, indoor halls can be cool from air-conditioning. In winter (June–Aug) bring layers – the open foyer areas can be chilly. Wear comfortable shoes, as you may walk long aisles or multiple halls. If something is hosted outdoors (on the Cuvée lawn), bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) or rain gear depending on forecasts. Prohibited Items: Typically no large suitcases or big backpacks. Bag checks are common – avoid sharp objects or illegal items. Outside alcohol is strictly forbidden (Ellerslie holds the liquor license and serves its own drinks) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Weapons or drones are banned by law. Professional camera/video gear may require a permit. Smoking is not allowed indoors (use designated outdoor smoking areas if provided). Most events will post a list of banned items, but as a rule, keep it minimal. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume your coat or bag can be left anywhere – bring valuables with you or use a locked locker if provided. Don’t park on the highway verge – only in the official lot via Derby Downs Place. Don’t arrive at event closing time, as parking exits can be slow. Also, double-check your door time; “doors open” may be 30 minutes before the event start – lining up late can mean missing introductory remarks. Age and Dress: Unless an event is 18+ (like some evening concerts or racing events), people of all ages are welcome. There is no formal dress code for the building itself, but dress *for the event*: business attire or smart-casual is typical for conferences; nice casual for expos; cocktail or formal wear for dinners if specified. Jeans and sneakers are fine for most fairs. In short: follow the event’s stated dress code and add a layer for climate comfort. Connectivity: The centre provides free guest Wi-Fi in public areas (ask registry for login info). Mobile phone coverage is strong with NZ networks throughout the venue. If you need charging, look for charging stations in foyers or ask staff for a charger – sometimes free lockers with charging points are available during large trade shows. Photography: Taking snapshots during the day is OK, but be mindful of privacy and any “no photos” signs at booths or presentations. Formal video recording or broadcasting without permission is not allowed. Many keynote sessions encourage note-taking and allow phone photos of slides. Drones on the grounds require special permits. Food & Drink: Outside food is not allowed. The venue’s cafes or the Novotel’s restaurant are your best bets. You can buy bottled water on site, but bringing a reusable bottle is convenient (water stations are often provided). Tipping isn’t usually expected in casual event cafes, but table service staff may appreciate rounding up.Emergencies: In case of emergency, follow staff instructions and the lighted exit signs. The building has onsite first aid and AED devices. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowds; event staff is friendly and security-conscious but always best to stay aware.
What is the seating capacity of the Ellerslie Event Centre?
The centre can host up to about 1,200 people standing or 1,100 seated theater-style (www.myguideauckland.com ) (www-eur.cvent.com ). Banquet (round-table) setups usually max around 900, classroom layouts about 500, and boardroom style about 60. These figures vary by room; for example, the largest halls (Newmarket or Guineas Ballroom) each reach the 1,100–1,200 range (www-eur.cvent.com ) (www.myguideauckland.com ).
Where can I park and how much does it cost?
Event parking is on-site and free for visitors. Until late 2024 it was accessed via Ascot Avenue, but now the official entry is at 16 Derby Downs Place (infield parking in the main field) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Follow event signs. Accessible parking spaces are reserved near the entrance. Parking is complimentary (no charge) but limited for big events, so arrive early. Note that public street parking is not permitted; please use the designated car park (www.scoop.co.nz ).
How do I get to Ellerslie Event Centre by public transport?
The nearest train stop is Ellerslie Station (Southern and Eastern Lines), about 1.5 km away (roughly a 15-minute walk) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (moovitapp.com ). From Ellerslie Station, you can catch a short bus (e.g. route 70 or 298) or taxi to the venue. Several Auckland buses (especially routes 70/70H, 65, 298, and 751) stop within a 5–10 minute walk of the racecourse (moovitapp.com ). Use AT Metro info for exact stops. No special shuttle is usually provided, so allow extra travel time on event days since some lines get busy.
Can I buy tickets at the venue’s box office?
In general, there is no public box office at Ellerslie Events Centre. Most event tickets must be purchased in advance through the event organiser or authorised ticketing service. Occasionally small events might offer limited door sales, but this is not common. It’s safest to buy online (on official event or linked ticket sites) ahead of time. (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz )
What are the transportation and rideshare options?
There’s ample space for taxis and rideshares. The recommended drop-off/pick-up point is at Derby Downs Place, directly at the event carpark entrance. Major rideshare services (Uber, Ola, Zoomy, etc.) operate here; just use “Ellerslie Racecourse” or the centre’s address. The Ellerslie bus/rail hub is a few blocks away, so some guests take train or bus and then do the short taxi trip. Keep in mind that after large events, finding a rideshare can take 5–15 minutes, so plan accordingly.
Are the event rooms accessible and are there lifts?
Yes. All main function areas are fully accessible. Ground-floor halls have ramped entrances and adjacent disability parking. In multi-level spaces (like Silks or Newmarket Room if split into two levels), there are elevators and escalators connecting floors. Accessible bathrooms (including wheelchair stalls and grab bars) are on every level. Wheelchair seating spots are available in the large halls (on flat floor sections). If you need a mobility shuttle or other assistance, contact the event organiser in advance.
Are there food and drink options inside the venue?
Yes. The centre has in-house catering and licensed bars. For example, the Goldstar Lounge and Silks bar serve beverages during events, and there’s usually event-specific catering stations with coffee, tea, snacks or meals. You cannot bring outside food or drink – only the venue’s caterers and bar can serve refreshments (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). If an event includes meals, options range from buffet lunches to plated dinners with local produce. Between sessions, there are often coffee/refreshment breaks. Nearby, the Novotel’s Acacia Restaurant (within a short walk) is open for lunch or dinner (m.scoop.co.nz ). Always check if your event ticket includes any meals or if vouchers are provided.
Can I leave the venue to get food or come back in?
For most large multi-day events (conferences, expos), entry wristbands or badges allow re-entry throughout the day. If you exit to grab a meal offsite during a break, you can usually return as long as you have your badge or ticket stamped. However, single-day shows may have one-time scan entry. Before leaving, check with event staff that re-entry is allowed. Also note that food options outside are a short walk (e.g. at the Novotel or local cafes), unlike indoor convenience stores. Plan accordingly.
Is there free Wi-Fi available for attendees?
Yes. The Ellerslie Events Centre provides Wi-Fi access to guests. The network is often included as part of event registration or as a complimentary service during conferences and expos (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Simply ask at the registration desk or check your event materials for the network name and password (typically a short code or shared key). For smaller meetings, the organiser may set up a private network – again, credentials are provided as needed.
What is the dress code at the venue?
The venue itself has no fixed dress code, but guests should dress appropriately for their specific event. In general business events, smart casual or business attire is the norm (jackets or dresses). For expos and trade fairs, neat casual (jeans OK but no beachwear). Formal gala dinners may request cocktail attire. Avoid flip-flops or overly casual shorts, especially in the large foyer or during dinner functions. Basically, see what others are wearing – Ellerslie attracts a professional crowd, so most people err on the side of semi-smart.
Are children allowed at Ellerslie Events Centre?
It depends on the event. The centre is family-friendly, and many day events (like expos or community fairs) allow children. However, evening events or those serving alcohol might be 18+ only (often noted on ticket info). Parents should supervise children – hall aisles and expo floors can be busy and loud. There is no age restriction by venue policy, so it’s really up to the event organiser’s rules. Always check the specific event listing for “children” or “age” guidelines.
Is the venue indoor or are there outdoor sections?
Ellerslie Events Centre is primarily an indoor complex of halls and meeting rooms. All main sessions, conferences, and dinners happen inside air-conditioned halls. However, the site also features connected outdoor spaces: the Cuvée lawn/terrace and some paved forecourts. These are often used for breaks, barbeques, exhibition booths or casual gatherings, weather permitting. Large expo events can spill out onto the grass or bring in marquees for extra floor space. If attending anything outdoors, check the forecast – events usually communicate rain options (though the indoor halls are always fully covered).
When should I arrive before my event starts?
Plan to arrive at least 15–20 minutes before a scheduled start time. This allows time to find parking (or navigate from the train station), check in, and locate your meeting room. If your event is expected to fill the halls (subscription conference, big expo), arriving 30 minutes early is safer, especially for finding a good seat or navigating check-in lines. On race days or on-track events, many people arrive even earlier (e.g. when the gates open at 10am on Cup Day). Check your ticket or organiser emails for any “doors open” time – sometimes gala dinners, for instance, ask guests to arrive an hour before the program.
Does Ellerslie Events Centre have an in-house catering or can we bring our own food?
All food and drinks must be provided by the venue’s approved caterers; you cannot bring outside catering. Ellerslie has a large in-house catering team that can deliver anything from buffet lunches to formal sit-down dinners. For private or corporate events, you typically choose packages from their menu. For public events, food is usually sold on site (snacks, quick meals, coffee). So, no need (and no permission) to bring your own food into the halls – rely on the centre’s F&B services or leave and return via re-entry if you prefer an offsite lunch.
Is smoking allowed at the venue?
No – Ellerslie Event Centre follows New Zealand law prohibiting indoor smoking. You may only smoke outside in designated areas. During large events, organizers may set up specific smoking zones in the carpark or outer courtyards. There is no smoking inside any function room or corridor. Vaping/e-cigarettes are similarly restricted to outside plumbing points. Staff will usually point out outdoor areas if needed.
Are there ATMs or banks on-site?
There are no permanent bank branches inside the venue. However, for large trade shows and festivals, portable ATMs and EFTPOS machines are often provided in common areas (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). Many guests pay by card. If you need cash, there are ATMs in Ellerslie village and nearby shopping centres (within a ten-minute drive). On-site bars and vendors accept major credit/debit cards. Siempre carry some cash only in case small stalls take cash only or for tipping.
What are some famous events that have been held here?
While Ellerslie is not primarily a concert venue, it’s hosted many high-profile expos and galas. For example, the annual Auckland Cup Day hospitality in its marquees, the NZ Horse of the Year Awards, and charity dinners like the CatWalk Luminary, which raised research funds in 2024 (www.catwalk.org.nz ). Business events like the House of Travel expo and Bride & Groom wedding fairs routinely fill the halls each year (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). State and industry conferences (technology summits, education forums) also choose Ellerslie for its space. The venue is often chosen for major corporate dinners or end-of-year parties by large Auckland companies due to its size and integrated services.
Does the event space comply with health and safety regulations?
Yes – as a modern NZ venue, Ellerslie Centre meets all current building codes. Fire exits are clearly marked, and the staff conduct regular safety briefings. In fact, the council and national authorities recognize its high safety standards: it carries a Qualmark “Gold” rating (4-Star Plus) for quality and compliance (www.scoop.co.nz ). High-traffic events have professional security, first aid staff, and a full-time Fire Safety Officer if needed (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz ). You can expect hand sanitizer stations and good ventilation by default.
Is there a coat check or locker facility?
During large conferences and ball events, the venue typically sets up a staffed coat check in the main foyer. Smaller meetings may not have official cloakrooms – in that case, you’re expected to keep belongings with you or in your seats (most rooms have ample floor space). There are no permanent self-locker banks, so treat your items as on a chair in front of you. Event organizers often announce any cloakroom service when you register.
