About Eventfinda Stadium
Eventfinda Stadium (formerly North Shore Events Centre) is an indoor arena in the Wairau Valley/Glenfield area on Auckland’s North Shore (www.austadiums.com ). It opened in 1992 (www.austadiums.com ) and seats roughly 4,700 people (with room to reach about 5,000 in total) (www.meetingnewz.co.nz ) (www.austadiums.com ). It was Auckland’s first purpose-built indoor stadium, making it historically significant to the region. The venue is owned and operated by a local charitable trust (the North Shore Events Centre Trust Board) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). This community governance model allows the stadium to balance sporting and cultural events: revenue from big commercial shows helps subsidise local basketball and gymnastics programs, for example (eventfindastadium.co.nz ).
Notable features include a sprung hardwood sports floor certified to international FIBA standards (used for basketball, netball, volleyball, etc.), a high, column-free roof with full lighting and PA rigging, and two large LED video screens (3m×4m each) for live action and scores (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Modern technical amenities allow extensive live production: the venue offers ample power (several 32A and 63A outlets) and wired 1Gbps fibre internet, plus robust on-site Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5 & 6) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). All of this supports everything from national league games to large concerts and expos. Eventfinda Stadium proudly calls itself “Auckland’s original indoor venue” (www.meetingnewz.co.nz ); its identity is rooted in decades of memorable performances and a key role in the city’s sports and entertainment scene.
Events and Programming
Eventfinda Stadium hosts a very wide range of events. Sporting events are prominent: it has been the home court for the New Zealand Breakers (NBL basketball) and regularly hosts women’s professional netball (e.g. the BNZ Kāhu in Tauihi League and occasional Silver Ferns tests). In recent years it also held men’s and women’s national school sports tournaments, 3×3 basketball competitions (charity fundraisers), boxing tournaments like “King in the Ring,” and MMA fight nights (Shuriken Fight Series) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Seasonal community sports such as archery or bowls share the facility with these high-profile events.
Beyond sports, the stadium is a multi-purpose regional venue. It has seen major music concerts (past acts include Bob Dylan, Sting, Green Day, Van Halen (www.meetingnewz.co.nz ) and more), and it is once again pursuing live shows, theatre tours, and comedy events as part of its revitalisation. The venue also hosts expos, trade shows and cultural conventions: for example, it regularly runs large consumer expos (Baby Expo, Go Green Expo) and cultural festivals (Korean Day, Indian Garba nights) to draw regional audiences. The calendar is very full; in a typical year 60–70 events attract about 400,000 visitors (eventfindastadium.co.nz ).
Performances and games are scheduled throughout the year, often on weekends or evenings. Ticket prices vary by event: sports games and smaller shows might start around NZD 20–30, mid-range concerts or prize fights around NZD 50–80, and premium acts or VIP seating up to a few hundred dollars. The stadium offers a range of seating tiers (see “Seating and Layout” below) to match budgets, and standing-room or bench seating at some events. For many recurring shows (e.g. the Breakers or regular expos) special deals or early-bird discounts may be offered, but sold-out games can occur for popular fixtures. Generally, community events (like the Baby Expo) even offer free or low-cost entry, reflecting the stadium’s community-minded approach. (eventfindastadium.co.nz )
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Eventfinda Stadium events are sold through official outlets and authorised ticket agents. Most events are ticketed via Eventfinda (the national NZ event marketplace) or other local promoters, but the exact channel depends on the event. There is a main box-office at the stadium; its office is open weekdays (Mon–Fri) around midday to evening (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). However, for large or popular shows it’s best to buy in advance online or at local authorised resellers, as door sales may sell out or only open close to showtime. There are no hidden fees – a ticket’s face value is typically all you pay (plus standard booking charges on autorised sites).
Presales and membership packages may be available via fan clubs, sponsor loyalty programs or local networks (e.g. Harbour Basketball members). It’s wise to check the event’s official announcements: sale dates often go up days or weeks before the performance. For high-demand concerts or championship games, tickets can sell quickly, so fans often queue virtually online when sales start. On event day, any remaining tickets (if any) are sold at the door, but we recommend pre-purchasing whenever possible to guarantee entry. Concession prices (for students or seniors) and family packages may be offered on some shows, which can reduce per-person cost. Always buy from the official source – be wary of resellers.
Seating and Layout
Eventfinda Stadium is a single indoor arena with a flat floor and a continuous ring of tiered seating around it. For most sports, the floor is used as the court or field, with audience seating rising up from all sides. The total seating capacity is largely fixed (~4,700 seats), though additional temporary seats or standing room on the floor can push total attendance closer to 5,000 for some events. The stands are labelled in sections around the four sides (north, south, east, west) and are mostly fixed bench or chair seating. Because the roof is high, almost every seat has a clear sightline.
Some seating is closer to the action: for basketball, you’ll find courtside “on court” seating rings. These premium sections are divided into Platinum, Premier, Diamond tiers (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ) – essentially front-row and side-row courtside seats. They are the most expensive but offer court-level views. The next tier is the mid-stands, known as Gold (sideline seats, best overall view), Silver (central stands) and Bronze (rear stands) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). In short: Gold seats on the sideline give great vantage (mid-height), Silver seats in the centre back (good value central view), and Bronze are the highest or corner seats (best value tickets) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). A similar tiered structure applies for other events that assign seats.
For concerts or events with stages, the floor area may be used for standing general admission or extra seats, and the stage is usually set at one end of the arena. In that case, seats behind the stage or far to one side may have limited view (and are often unsold). The scoreboard and main screens are targeted mainly at the court or main field, so seats at the very sides won’t see the whole display. In general, mid-level sideline seats are ideal for all-around viewing, while front-court seats or lower stands offer an in-close experience (with the trade-off of possibly being lower to the floor). Acoustically, the design is engineered to project sound evenly, so even seats high in the tiers experience clear audio during concerts (thecommunity.co.nz ).
Various VIP and hospitality options exist too, including the Kings Lounge (a private suite) for corporate functions or post-game events, and accessible seating areas for wheelchairs. Most events will mark these on the ticket map. If choosing a seat, consider how active your viewpoint is (e.g. behind a basketball hoop is less scenic), but know that all seats have decent visibility on the court. Reading reviews, asking regulars, or consulting the seating plan (often available at ticket sites) can help pick the best spot for your budget.
Getting There and Parking
Eventfinda Stadium’s address is 17 Silverfield (Argus Place), Wairau Valley, Glenfield, Auckland (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). It lies about 8–10 km north of Auckland CBD, just off the Northern Motorway (State Highway 1). By car, you would exit SH1 at Greville Road and take Porana Road east. Follow signs to Eventfinda Stadium via Silverfield Road (North entry) or Argus Place (West entry) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Driving time from central Auckland is only 15–20 minutes outside peak hours.
Parking is very generous and free. The stadium owns a private car park with about 800 spaces (eventfindastadium.co.nz ) – far more than most city venues. Spaces are available on a first-come basis; arrive early for the best spots. The main lots are accessed via Silverfield Road on the north side (Gate A) and via Argus Place on the west (Gate B) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). For families and patrons with mobility permits, 10 accessible parks are reserved near the main lobby on Argus Place, and 6 more at Silverfield Gate B (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Do not park in nearby industrial lots or golf-course overflow; only use the official stadium carpark. The lot opens early before events (check times) and closes sometime after the game – outside events, weekdays it’s normally open 9am–5pm. (eventfindastadium.co.nz )
If you prefer public transport, Auckland Transport buses and trains can bring you close. The nearest bus stops are on Wairau Road. The Pak’nSave Wairau stop on Wairau Road is just 500m (about a 5–7 min walk) north of the stadium (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). That stop is served by several routes (including the frequent 901 and 906 SkyBus routes, the 941 bus, and others (moovitapp.com )). The Smales Farm Bus and Train Station (near Takapuna) is about 1.4 km away to the west (roughly a 15–20 min walk via Wairau Road and Oakberry/Argus Place) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). Many visitors park at Smales Farm (an AT HOP hub) and then catch the short bus or walk to the venue. When riding buses, use AT’s journey planner (or Google Maps) to find a route to Wairau Valley / Pak’nSave Wairau.
For drop-offs or rideshares (Uber, etc.), the best spot is directly off Argus Place or Silverfield Road. Drivers should ensure they do not block any gates or crosswalks. Walking from nearby suburbs is possible but not common, as the stadium is in an industrial/business area with limited sidewalks. For cycle commuters, there are bike racks near the entrance, but note your bike at your own risk.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, allow some time for entry. Eventfinda Stadium enforces standard event security checks: all guests enter through turnstiles and may undergo bag inspections or metal detection for safety (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Bags should be small (no larger than 30cm×30cm×30cm) and may be searched (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Leave large items at home or in your car – only small personal belongings, phones, and similar essentials are permitted. The venue is fully no-smoking (including e-cigarettes) inside, so plan accordingly (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Fast security means the line usually moves quickly, but arriving 30–45 minutes before show time is wise to avoid any last-minute rush (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ).
The main lobby and concourse areas have concessions (food/drink stands) and restroom facilities. Food choices are typical stadium fare: hot dogs, pies, ice cream, and non-alcoholic drinks. Alcohol (beer and wine) is usually available for purchase at bars inside (with valid ID check) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). A unique in-house eatery is the Greenwich Tavern (on-site pub) accessible from lobby for meals and pints. We recommend using contactless payment or NZ EFTPOS – the stall and bar staff accept credit cards and mobile pay. On-site slogans note they also support NFC/mobile wallets for quick service.
Throughout the venue you’ll see digital signage and interactive kiosks for information. Official merchandise stands sometimes appear for big shows (concert T-shirts, team jerseys, etc.). Restrooms are plentiful on all levels near the seating sections. There is no formal cloakroom for large coats or prams, but you can ask event staff if coats can be stored at the entrance – however, many guests just leave items in their seats or with a friend. Water fountains or refill stations are available in the concourse, and you are welcome to bring an empty reusable water bottle (no plastic bottles) to fill up (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Wi-Fi is available: the stadium runs a high-speed guest network, so you can check email or stream highlights without using your mobile data (however, cellular coverage on some levels may be spotty when it’s very crowded).
The atmosphere inside is friendly but energetic. Since events range from family expos to rock concerts, dress is usually casual. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if your seat is far or if you plan to stand/dance. When the event starts, lights dim for focus, but the concourses remain lit if you need to move around. If the show is loud (like a concert or fight), consider bringing earplugs. Most shows are well-staffed with ushers in uniforms – don’t hesitate to ask them for directions to your seat, the bathroom, or any help. There are also CCTV cameras monitoring the area for security. Note: if filming or taking photos, personal cameras and phones are permitted for private use, but professional camera gear or recording devices are generally prohibited (eventfindastadium.co.nz ) unless sanctioned by the promoter (no GoPros or DSLR cameras, and no flash photography on concerts). Always follow the event-specific rules posted at the entrance or announced by staff.
Nearby Amenities
Though Eventfinda Stadium is in a primarily business/industrial zone, there are good options for food, drink and rest nearby. Right next door (about 200m away) is Beach Haven Golf Club with licensed bar facilities; some patrons grab a beer there before entry. Wairau Valley’s local eateries include the Passport Bar and Mayfield SportsHouse (both at 170 Wairau Road) which serve pub food, burgers, and plenty of screens for sports (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). For craft beer fans, Mythica Brewing (4/48 Ellice Road, open Thur–Sat) is a microbrewery with a taproom – a nice spot to sample local ales (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Directly beside the stadium is a Pool & Blues pool-hall bar (Ellice Road) with a casual vibe.
For quick meals or snacks, the Glenfield Mall (McFaddens Drive, 1–2 km south) has a food court with Asian, Middle Eastern and fast-food options, plus supermarkets and cafes. Many concertgoers also dine out in Takapuna beforehand (10–15 min drive); Takapuna’s seaside strip has a wide range of restaurants, bars, and pubs open late.
Accommodation is limited right at Wairau, so overnight visitors often stay on the North Shore or in central Auckland. Nearby hotels include mid-range motels in Takapuna or the CBD (20 min drive via SH1). There is a Holiday Inn Express at the airport (15 min south, then 10–15 min ride north) or a Quest Aparthotel at Smales Farm Station, both offering easy motorway access.
After events, restaurants in Glenfield and Takapuna remain open till around 10-11pm on weekends. If you need a late-night ride, taxis and rideshares are available but tend to surge when lots of events let out. Public buses continue serving Wairau Road into the evening (though frequency drops at night) – check the AT (Auckland Transport) schedules. Note that the last bus on some lines is around midnight. If staying late, plan your transport in advance or carpool so you know your way home safely.
What Makes This Venue Special
Eventfinda Stadium’s character comes from its mix of local heritage and versatility. Architecturally it’s not flashy – it’s a functional hall built for sport – but its flexible design (open span roof, removable seats) makes it adaptable for all kinds of events. Historically, it’s special because it was the premier indoor entertainment centre on the North Shore for decades: in its early years it hosted huge international rock tours (including Bob Dylan, Sting, Green Day, Van Halen (www.meetingnewz.co.nz )) that no other Auckland venue could accommodate. It was also the original home of the Breakers and netball champions, giving local fans memorable sporting moments. This rich past means the stadium has a bit of local legend status among long-time Aucklanders.
Culturally, the stadium is a crossroads of communities. It stands in the heart of Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) and regularly hosts events for diverse groups – from Pacific Island dance festivals to Asian cultural expos – reflecting the city’s multicultural makeup. The trust’s mission emphasizes enhancing the mana (pride/respect) of the community (eventfindastadium.co.nz ), so you’ll often see community sports days, school tournaments, and cultural gatherings under one roof. It’s a friendly “grassroots” venue because of this trust-run philosophy: local promoters and volunteers often work here, and many attendees feel a strong local ownership of the place.
Fans and performers alike praise the stadium for its atmosphere. Athletes have called it “world class” for sporting events, and promoters note its intimate ambience compared to larger city arenas (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). The lighting rig and sound system are professional-grade, which makes concerts feel impactful (thecommunity.co.nz ). Because it’s smaller than the big city stadiums, shows here have a more personal feel – you’re up close to the players or the band. Also, the stadium’s location amid suburban hills gives it a unique setting; winning games here often have an enthusiastic, community vibe.
In essence, the combination of storied history, community focus, and modern facilities makes Eventfinda Stadium stand out. It may not have the glitzy architecture of a downtown arena, but it has character. Knowing that the stadium is owned by the community adds a special dimension – many attendees say they feel they are supporting local sports and arts every time they buy a ticket. Deeply embedded in North Shore’s social fabric, it’s a place where family memories are made (first sports game, first concert, etc.), and that gives it a charm beyond the concrete and lights.
Visitor Tips and Information
• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-friendly. Ramps lead to main entrances, and a lift provides access to the upper level (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). Accessible parking is available at both the Argus Place and Silverfield entrances (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Inform the staff if you need special seating or assistance (and arrive early to settle in). Service or guide dogs are welcome, but must be leashed and seated with their owner (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). For hearing or vision impairments, the stadium can assist with captioning screens or seating – email the box office ahead to inquire about help.
• What to Bring: Always bring your printed or digital ticket and a photo ID if you plan to purchase alcohol. Carry a small bag or backpack – the only bags allowed are small (roughly A4 size) and will be searched (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Empty reusable water bottles are encouraged (fill stations are provided) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Earplugs for loud concerts, or a light jacket for chilly air-conditioned comfort, can make the experience more pleasant.
Bags and Policing: Don’t bring stuff you can’t carry at your seat. Large umbrellas, large tripods or professional cameras (lenses ≥35mm) are not allowed (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Glass bottles or outside food/drink are forbidden (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Do carry any medication or baby supplies you need, but expect a quick search.Dress Code: The atmosphere is generally casual. Evenings can get cool inside (especially if air conditioning is on), so consider a light sweater. There’s no formal dress requirement, but event organisers sometimes theme nights (29 November K-1 combat night had an 62kg theme note in [16]) – check event details if unsure.Age Restrictions: Most events welcome all ages, but you must have a ticket for any child in a seat (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). There is no lap-infant policy except on some free family days, so children down to babies usually need a ticket too. Some events (like late-night concerts or fights) might be 18+ and strictly ID-checked. If bringing kids, plan seating so younger children aren’t too close to loudspeakers, and stick to front or side sections for quick exits if needed.Common Mistakes: A common error is arriving too late – parking and entry lines can take 15–20 minutes even for small crowds. Aim to get there at least 30 minutes early (and Breakers fans target 45 minutes before tip-off (fans.nzbreakers.basketball )). Another mistake is bringing prohibited items – check the above Conditions of Entry to avoid having something confiscated. And remember NZ’s drink-driving rules: if you’ve had more drinks than allowed by law, take a taxi or bus home.Communication: The stadium has digital signboards and announcements. Announcements are made in English (and sometimes Māori or Pasifika languages for cultural events). Cell service is generally OK throughout, but data-heavy activities are better done on the free Wi-Fi (eventfindastadium.co.nz ).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Eventfinda Stadium located?
Eventfinda Stadium is located at 17 Silverfield (off Porana Road) in Wairau Valley, Glenfield, on Auckland’s North Shore (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). It has entrances on Silverfield Road (North side) and Argus Place (West side). The stadium is about 8–10 km north of central Auckland, just off State Highway 1 (Northern Motorway).
What is the seating capacity of Eventfinda Stadium?
Officially the stadium has seating for around 4,700 spectators (www.meetingnewz.co.nz ) (www.austadiums.com ). With additional floor seating or standing room (for certain events) the capacity can approach 5,000. It was initially built as a 4,750–5,000 seat venue (www.meetingnewz.co.nz ), and modern configurations still use nearly that full range.
What type of events are held here?
A wide variety: professional sports (basketball, netball, badminton, etc.), martial arts and combat sports (boxing, MMA), concerts, comedy, expos (baby shows, health & wellness expos), cultural events (festivals, national days) and corporate functions. Big names in sport and music have performed here, making it one of Auckland’s most versatile indoor venues.
How can I buy tickets for an event here?
Tickets are typically sold via official event organizers and authorised ticketing platforms. The venue’s box office is open on weekdays (12:00–17:00, by phone or in person) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ), but many events also sell online. Check the specific event’s announcement for official ticket outlets. Tickets may also be available at the door if not sold out, but we recommend buying in advance through the authorised seller (not a random reseller).
Are there different seating areas or ticket prices?
Yes. Seating is tiered by price and location. For example, courtside seats (Platinum, Premier, Diamond) offer close views for higher prices, while the stands are labeled Gold (best sideline views), Silver (central stands), and Bronze (back or corner seats) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). Back-of-bus seats (Bronze) are cheapest. For concerts, floor/standing areas are often general admission. Always check the seating layout and pricing provided during ticket purchase to choose your preferred view.
What are the parking options and costs?
Eventfinda Stadium offers about 800 free onsite parking spaces (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Parking is free for all event attendees and is managed by the stadium trust, not public parking. Enter via Silverfield Road (north side) or Argus Place (west side) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Accessible (mobility) parks are allocated near the main entrance. Note: do not park in nearby private lots – use only the official stadium car park. Be sure to arrive early for a good spot (lots open well before events).
How can I get to the stadium by public transport?
Auckland’s bus network stops close by. The nearest stop is at Pak’nSave Wairau on Wairau Road (about a 500m walk) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ), served by several routes (e.g. 901, 906, 941). Smales Farm Bus/Train Station (west) is about 1.5 km away (20 min walk or a short connecting bus). Use the Auckland Transport (AT) journey planner to route buses or trains to Wairau Valley. During major events, extra buses sometimes operate. Rideshares (Uber/Zoomy) can drop you at the stadium’s Argus Place entrance.
What amenities are available inside?
Inside you’ll find food and beverage kiosks, restrooms, and bar counters. Typical snacks (hot dogs, pies, snacks) and drinks (including beer/wine at bars) are available. There are public water fountains (and you can refill your bottle) (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). The stadium has free Wi-Fi throughout. Merchandise stands may appear during concerts or sports matches. There is no formal cloakroom, but luggage or coats can often be stored with an usher. Elevators connect lower and upper levels, and wheelchair-accessible seating is provided.
Can I bring a bag, food, or camera into the stadium?
Bags are restricted to small (around 30cm×30cm) sizes only (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Large backpacks or suitcases are not permitted. Outside food and drink (including sealed bottled water) are not allowed (eventfindastadium.co.nz ); however, you can bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill up inside (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). For cameras, personal devices (smartphones or small compact cameras) are fine, but professional DSLR cameras or video recorders are not allowed (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Always check the event’s specific rules, as some performers have stricter photo policies.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The main entrances are ramped and have push-button doors. Inside, elevators (lifts) connect to all levels (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). Wheelchair viewing spaces are available at court-level. If you need assistance, let the staff know – they will guide you. Accessible parking spaces (with easy access) are provided at each entrance (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Service dogs are also permitted (leashed at all times) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ).
Can children attend events here?
In general, yes – families and kids are welcome. Note that any child (including babies) must have a ticket if occupying a seat (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Some events (like netball or expos) are family-friendly, while others (late-night shows, certain sports) may have age limits or advisories. Always check the event listing: under-5s sometimes enter free if sitting on a parent’s lap, but higher age kids almost always need a purchsed ticket. Concessions are sometimes offered for kids or students.
Is photography or recording allowed?
Personal photo and video (phones or small free-standing cameras) is generally allowed for personal use, unless the event specifically forbids it. Professional cameras, large zoom lenses, tripods, and video cameras are not allowed without permission (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). Flash photography might be restricted during shows. Check the event page or announcements for any special media restrictions. If you’re unsure, it’s safest to use your phone camera discreetly instead of bulky equipment.
What are the venue’s rules on smoking and vaping?
Smoking of any kind (cigarettes, vapes, e-cigarettes) is strictly prohibited inside Eventfinda Stadium (eventfindastadium.co.nz ). There are no smoking areas indoors. Violators may have devices confiscated. If you smoke, you must exit the building entirely. Auckland Council regulations also ban vaping indoors in such venues. Expect a smoke-free experience throughout.
Are there lockers or a coat check?
There is no formal public locker or coat-check service at Eventfinda Stadium. If you have valuable belongings, it’s safest to leave them at home or in your car. For coats or small carry items, you can sometimes ask an usher at the entrance if you need to stow them temporarily, but this is by request. Most patrons simply keep their items with them or under-seat.
What time do doors open for events?
Door opening times vary by event, but generally doors open 30–60 minutes before the scheduled start. For sporting events (basketball/netball) this often means arriving by the recommended “tip-off” time (Breakers fans suggest ~45 minutes early) (fans.nzbreakers.basketball ). For concerts or shows, doors might open 45 minutes to an hour before the curtain. Always check your ticket or event info – it will list a specific “gates open” time. Arriving early ensures you find your seat comfortably and lets you explore any on-site activities or food stalls.
