About The Trusts Arena, 65-67 Central Park Dr, Henderson
The Trusts Arena in Henderson (West Auckland) is a major indoor sports and entertainment venue. Opened in 2004, it was built on land once known as Kings Orchard; today it seats roughly 4,900 people (www.austadiums.com ). Funded by Waitakere City Council, The Trusts (local licensing trusts) and other partners, this multi-purpose centre is run by the Waitakere City Stadium Trust and designed as a community hub for West Auckland. It features an indoor arena under a peaked roof, adjacent to the outdoor Douglas Track and Field (formerly Waitakere Stadium). For locals it’s a landmark – an icon of West Auckland sport and culture – and it hosts everything from championship netball games to international concerts. The venue’s name reflects its backers, with The Trusts providing ongoing support to keep hire rates affordable. Each year hundreds of thousands of Kiwis from across Auckland and beyond come here for games, expos and shows, making it a social and economic anchor for the community (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). A proud legacy remains: generations of athletes and concert-goers remember this venue as “Henderson’s stadium” – from track meets and school sports days in the 1980s to blockbuster shows and community festivals today. In short, The Trusts Arena is a versatile, purpose-built facility that matters to the local scene and puts West Auckland on the entertainment map.
Events and Programming
The Trusts Arena hosts a wide range of happenings. Sporting events dominate much of its schedule: it’s famously the home court of the Northern Mystics netball team (ANZ Premiership champions) during winter, and you’ll also find roller derby (Pirate City Rollers), athletics meets, fencing tournaments, youth basketball, rugby club gatherings, martial arts contests and more. Local sports clubs and school competitions often book the arena year-round. Beyond sports, the venue is a hotspot for concerts and festivals. International and NZ acts from rock, hip hop, classical, pop and world music roll through – for example, punk-rock legends like Social Distortion & Bad Religion, rap stars like Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube (with Cypress Hill), and bands such as Papa Roach, Netsky (DNB), UB40 member Ali Campbell, K-pop and C-pop tours, and many more have played here. Big comedy and entertainment tours (e.g. Jo Koy, Neil deGrasse Tyson) also pack the house. Recurring events include annual genre festivals and sign-up shows: drum & bass festivals like “Touch Bass,” youth concerts, cultural festivals and expos have been held. Community and corporate events – from graduation ceremonies to conferences, food fairs to trade shows – also fill the calendar. Many events are ticketed through authorised outlets; sports tickets can be very affordable (often under $30 for adults), while major concerts typically range $50–$150+ depending on the show. The mix of programming means there’s almost always something at the arena: winter sees weekly Mystics matches, summer sees music festivals; local club nights, conventions and charity galas happen in between. Be sure to check listings or sign up for the venue newsletter to see upcoming shows, from small community theatre and gala dinners (the arena can host seated banquets for over 3,000 people) to sold-out rock tours.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at The Trusts Arena can be purchased through the venue’s official box office or authorised ticket agents. The Arena often partners with major ticketing services, so you can buy vouchers in advance by phone or on the event’s official site; watch for presales for popular shows (for example, Netball fan clubs may get early access). The Trusts Arena box office is located on site (ring the main number 09-970-5200 for hours, usually weekdays) and sometimes opens a few hours before high-demand events. Ticket prices vary: grassroots sporting events and community shows may charge only modest fees, while large concerts or international acts can cost $80–$120 or more. Seating is usually priced by zone (floor standing vs. front press vs. elevated stands). For hot shows (big nomes or finals), tickets often sell out quickly; try to book as soon as they go on sale. Otherwise, some events allow last-minute “door sales” if seats remain, but don’t count on that with big draws. If you must, ask at the Box Office on event day – some windows stay open shortly before curtain. Consider joining mailing lists or following socials of The Trusts Arena and its resident teams for news of presales and special discounts (e.g. family packages, member rates, or school group rates). Many shows also release a limited number of cheaper “couch” or restricted view seats. The arena is cashless, so expect to pay by card or online. Always keep your digital or printed ticket handy (ID may be checked for certain events) and arrive early for popular shows to avoid queues.
Seating and Layout
The indoor arena has a bowl configuration with steep stands on all four sides and a large flat-floor area. A typical setup places a stage or sports court at one end, with seating arcs rising up on three sides. When a concert or show is in session, the floor can be general admission standing or fitted with rows of chairs. There are no obstructed-view sections in the mid-rises, but if a stage is end-on, the seats directly behind or far to the side of the stage will have limited sightlines. For music events, the best views are usually the floor area (for standing fans) or the lower central block of tiered seats facing the stage; acoustically the sound is well balanced in the middle of the house. For sports, centre-court seats on the lower level (midway up the stands) give the clearest perspective on play. The upper rows (level 1 seating) are accessed by stair or lift; these offer a full overview of the arena and can be good for netball or basketball if you want a “bird’s-eye” view. There are a few corporate boxes and a VIP lounge on the upper level facing the court side, which groups or sponsors use during events. Wheelchair-accessible vantage points are also available on the upper level at designated spots (with ramp or elevator access). In general, the arena’s steep rake means even seats toward the back still have a good view over the crowd. Tip: avoid the extreme corners that angle away from stage or court on concert nights. If roaming, the ground floor concourse wraps around for a 360° view of the action from mid-lobby height. Overall, the venue is compact enough that even the farthest seat feels close compared to larger stadiums, giving it an intimate yet energetic feel.
Getting There and Parking
The Trusts Arena is located at 65-67 Central Park Drive in Henderson, off the North Western Motorway (State Highway 16) about 17 km west of downtown Auckland. By car, follow signs for Henderson or Lincoln Road exit; the venue has on-site parking. There are around 380 marked car parks directly at the arena (free during normal hours), plus up to 1,800 additional overflow spaces within a short walk – often using the nearby Te Pai Netball Centre carpark on Greenway Park Drive and other adjacent lots (especially on event nights) (at.govt.nz ). Parking is generally free unless a big event requires a charge; check the Arena’s social media or contact them for details. Note that on very busy nights some areas may close and only mobility permit holders can drop off at the main entrance. Ride-share and taxis can be dropped off at the front roundabout. You can also cycle or even walk – Henderson’s urban trail network connects here (a 27 min ride from Swanson was listed on the city transport page) (at.govt.nz ). Public transport is convenient: frequent NX1 express buses run from the CBD to nearby (with about a half-hour ride plus a ~25 min walk), or city buses #14 and #147 go from New Lynn or Henderson Station to stops within 10–15 minutes’ walk of the arena (at.govt.nz ) (at.govt.nz ). (After the event, AT buses often have extra runs; trains on the Western Line also bring you to Henderson station – then catch a connecting #14/#147 shuttle or a taxi the last few minutes.) When coming by train, get off at Henderson Rail Station; from there the arena is roughly a 10-minute bus ride away or a 30-minute walk as noted above. Lyft/Uber/taxi can usually park briefly at the drop-off bay. On event evenings, expect road closures or heavy traffic, so leave early. For handicapped and mobility parking, there are reserved spots near the entrances (permit required) and also a drop-off bay at the main door for those holders (at.govt.nz ).
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Trusts Arena, you’ll typically pass through a ticket turnstile or box office window and a security check (bag search and metal-detect) – be ready to show your ticket and ID if asked. Venue staff in high-vis jackets are friendly and can direct you. The main concourse is spacious with toilets and concession stands around. You’ll find multiple food and drink kiosks selling typical sports-event fare: hot dogs, burgers, pizza, fries, chips and soft drinks. Bars in the concourse and upstairs serve beer, wine, cider and non-alcoholic drinks (remember the arena is liquor-licensed, so outside alcohol is forbidden (thetrustsarena.co.nz )). Wait times can be long before big shows, so arriving earlier than showtime is wise (if the show starts at 7:30 pm, doors often open around 6:30 pm or as listed). Plan to lock up coats or bulky items under your seat (there isn’t a formal cloakroom, so bring only what you need). Phones work fine here (you can take pics with your phone, but large professional cameras or recording gear aren’t allowed (thetrustsarena.co.nz )). The venue is fully indoors and climate-controlled, which means it’s warm and dry in winter and cooled in summer. Security overdrawing: seats have open sightlines, so you can walk around to concession areas without losing your view (easy if you chose an aisle seat). Restrooms (with baby-change) are on each level, well signposted. Many concerts have merchandise stalls in the foyer or along the concourse – official T-shirts, souvenirs and programs sold by the artists or teams. There’s no free Wi-Fi, so download e-tickets and maps ahead. The overall vibe changes with the event: for sports it can be family-friendly and loud with cheers, whereas for night shows the lights dim and it feels like a big club atmosphere. Follow on-site announcements for any safety instructions or smoke machines in concerts, and note the nearest exits – staff will assist if needed.
Nearby Amenities
The area around Henderson’s Central Park has plenty for a pre- or post-show bite. A short drive (or 15-min walk east) is Henderson’s main shopping zone (WestCity mall and nearby strips) with many cafés, ethnic eateries and pubs. You’ll find Asian restaurants, burger joints and New Zealand-style cafés – for example, nearby Burgers and Lowbrow or Wok Me House (Thai/Korean), local pizza or sushi places. Henderson RSA club (on Henderson Valley Road) and Club Kelston have bistros serving pub meals and beers if you want a casual dinner. For coffee or light snacks there’s a café at nearby Waitakere Stadium complex, and the West Wave Aquatic Centre (across the road) has ice creams and family-friendly dining. There is no alcohol sold on site beyond the bars, so pick up any takeout liquor or groceries beforehand at the bottle store or supermarket in town. Trattoria-style restaurants on Universal Drive are 5 minutes away by car. As for hotels, central Auckland options (CBD, Ponsonby) are 20–30 minutes east by car. In Henderson itself you can stay at service apartments like Quest Henderson (Hobson St) or local motels, which are about a 5–10 minute drive. If you arrive late and need transport home, note that buses thin out at night: pre-book an Uber/taxi or check if a late-night train departs Henderson (train frequency drops after 10pm).
What Makes This Venue Special
The Trusts Arena stands out as West Auckland’s showpiece event space. Architecturally it’s a modern, functional design with a vaulted ceiling and open concourse, making it versatile for anything from Olympic-level sports to rock concerts. It has hosted historic moments: for instance, at its official reopening of the athletics complex in 2008 New Zealand shot-put champion Valerie Adams (then Vili) had one of the country’s top throws right on this track (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). In sports culture, it’s the only local home for the Mystics, and Pinnacle Roller Derby – fans there cheer like nowhere else. The founder conditions (built by local clubs, business and Trusts) give it a community feel: the bronze plaque recalls a prisoner-work gang who laid the original terraces in the ’80s. Culturally, it brings the big-city concert experience to Westies – after all, you don’t have to trek downtown to see an international act. Many artists enjoy playing here for the passionate crowd and husky Westie hospitality. The venue even hosts unique Kiwi traditions, like fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night and community holiday events. From a technical standpoint, the arena has high-end lighting rigs and a video scoreboard that add flair to events, and its sprung sports floor makes it safe for athletes. Fans often mention the warm, friendly atmosphere – people tend to linger on the concourse catching up with neighbours, which you don’t always see in bigger centres. Ultimately, it’s the mix of suburban charm and big-venue capability that gives The Trusts Arena its character: it feels like a local recreation centre that happened to add the amenities of a high-end stadium.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan ahead at The Trusts Arena: check the event start time (doors usually open 45–90 minutes before showtime) and buy parking passes if needed. Bring only small bags – anything larger than roughly an A3 size (300×300×100 mm) may be refused (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). Don’t carry outside alcohol or glass containers, as these are banned（pet glass bottles etc) (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll walk up some ramps to get to mid or top-level seats. For loud concerts consider earplugs (sound check at full volume). There’s no cloakroom, so stow jackets under your seat or leave bulky coats in your car. Check for age limits: most events welcome all ages, but some late-night concerts may be 16+ or 18+. No formal dress code is required – casual or smart-casual is fine. If you need assistance (accessibility help, lost child, etc.), uniformed staff are around. Take note of emergency exits upon entry. Be aware it can get chilly from the crowd and air-con – bringing a light jumper is wise for night shows. Try local snacks: the arena often runs coffee carts or food trucks during events with Kiwi fare (pies, sausage rolls, coffee stands). Finally, embrace the local vibe – West Aucklanders are usually relaxed, so expect friendly chatter in queues and a laid-back patience. And remember to look out of the big windows after the show – Central Park Drive is usually lit up, making for a nice night-time stroll back to your car or bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of The Trusts Arena?
The Trusts Arena’s main hall holds just under 5,000 people in total. For concerts or banquets seating, around 4,900 seats are installed, and up to 5,000 can fit standing. This includes floor space and all tiers of seating. It’s smaller than Eden Park, so the house feels full and intimate when at capacity. (Adjacent outdoor fields are separate venues.)
How can I buy tickets and when do they go on sale?
Tickets are sold through the official box office at the arena and via authorised ticketing outlets (check the event’s details). Most events announce sale dates months in advance, often with pre-sales for clubs or newsletter subscribers. Popular shows can sell out fast, so it’s best to buy early online or at the box office during business hours. Last-minute door sales are rare and only if an event isn’t sold out. Sign up to the venue’s newsletter or follow social media for sale alerts.
Are there age restrictions for events at the arena?
Age rules depend on the event. Family-friendly sports games and most daytime events are open to all ages. Some concerts or comedy shows may be rated 18+ or 16+ (these details appear on tickets). Always check the event listing; minors usually need to be accompanied by an adult. The venue itself has no specific age limit; just follow the event’s policy. Photo ID may be required if specified (e.g. for alcohol sales or age-restricted shows).
What travel options are available to get to The Trusts Arena?
Besides driving, Auckland transport buses run routes serving Henderson. The NX1 or NX2 city-to-West buses stop a short walk away. Local bus #14 and #147 connect Henderson town and New Lynn to Central Park Drive too. The train (Western Line) goes to Henderson Station; from there you can catch a #14 or #147 bus, or walk (~10–15 min) to the arena. Taxis and rideshares can drop off at the front entrance. Cycling is an option via Auckland’s bike paths. Follow public-transport updates before heading out, especially for late-night return trips.
Is there on-site parking at The Trusts Arena?
Yes. The arena has ample parking – roughly 380 carparks right by the building, plus about 1,800 more within walking distance. For big events, nearby Te Pai Netball Centre and other lots open up as overflow parking. Most parking is free, but some major events may charge a fee or restrict spaces. Watch for event announcements about parking (some nights close regular lots). There’s also a marked drop-off zone at the main gate for mobility permit holders.
Where are the best seats in The Trusts Arena?
It depends on the event. For concerts, the central sections of the lower bowl (facing the stage) give the best audio-visual experience. If it’s a standing concert, the floor area is ideal for atmosphere. For sports (netball/basketball), aim for mid-floor seats on the sideline for clear sightlines. Upper-tier seats offer a full view of the whole court or stage. Avoid extreme corners (behind or at sharp angles to the stage) as they can have restricted views.
Are there general admission floor areas?
Yes. Many concerts and music events use the flat arena floor as a general admission standing pit or a mix of standing and temporary seating. If you have a GA ticket, you can stand on the floor for a close-to-stage experience. For seated setups, the floor may be fitted with chairs (e.g. for a banquet or court-side seating). Always check your ticket: it will say whether your spot is seated or standing. Admissions for sports are usually fixed seats.
What items and behaviors are prohibited inside?
As a licensed venue, The Trusts Arena does not allow outside alcohol or glass containers. Other banned items include weapons, large signs, laser pointers, illegal fireworks, and any items that could spoil others’ enjoyment (like umbrellas or noisemakers). Professional cameras and recording gear (lenses over 100mm) are also forbidden unless it’s for personal use. Check the detailed list before visiting: large bags over A3 size (roughly 30×30×10 cm) are usually not allowed (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). Service animals (guide dogs) are permitted, but pets or scooters aren’t. Basically, bring only essentials and respect fellow patrons’ safety and comfort.
What facilities are available inside The Trusts Arena?
Inside you'll find everything you need for a comfortable visit. There are multiple wheelchair-accessible restrooms on each level, and regular toilets in every concourse. Concession stands sell food and soft drinks, and licensed bars serve beer, cider and wine. You can buy team or tour merchandise at stalls. The arena has elevators and ramps for those with limited mobility. There is no official coat check, so limit what you bring. Free Wi-Fi is usually not provided, but phone reception is strong. Staff can help with sightseeing maps or event programs if available.
Is The Trusts Arena indoor or outdoor?
The Trusts Arena is fully indoors with a high peaked roof and climate control. This means events are unaffected by weather – rain or shine you’ll stay dry and (usually) cool. The only outdoor facilities nearby are adjacent athletic tracks and fields; but the main seating and stage area is completely inside. Tickets sold for “Arena” events are for the indoor space; separate tickets would be needed for any outside stadium.
Are cameras and phones allowed?
Yes, personal phones and small cameras are allowed for private use, and many people snap pictures with their smartphones. However, pro cameras, large lenses, video cameras, tripods or recorders are typically not allowed unless explicitly permitted by the promoter. Always check the event’s rules. No-flash photography or video recording may be requested during concerts. Using your phone for calls or texts is fine, but please be courteous (headphones for dialogue, phone on silent, etc.).
Can I bring food and drinks inside?
Outside commercial food and drink is generally not allowed to protect the venue’s catering. You can bring a small amount of personal snacks (sandwich or small fruit) for young children or special diets. Sealed plastic water bottles under 1 litre are usually permitted (though during some busy events even water bottles might be restricted – check the event notes). Concession stands inside offer a full range of refreshments, so plan to buy food there. No deliveries (UberEats etc.) will be accepted inside the arena during events, per venue policy.
Is The Trusts Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the arena is very wheelchair-friendly. There are designated wheelchair viewing areas in the upper seating tier (accessed by elevator), plus lifts to move between levels. Accessible toilets are located on each floor. The venue provides special parking for mobility permit holders close to the entrance (thetrustsarena.co.nz ). If you need wheelchair seating or companion tickets, it’s best to contact the stadium’s accessibility coordinator in advance or your ticket agent when booking. Venue staff are also available on event days to assist with any access needs.
What transportation should I use if I can’t drive?
Public transport and rideshare are popular alternatives. From Auckland city centre, take the express bus (NX1 course) to Westgate or Henderson, then transfer to a local bus (like route 14) to reach Central Park Drive. The Western Line train to Henderson Station is another route; from there a short bus or taxi. Late-night buses run less often, so consider booking an Uber or taxi home if an event ends late. Taxi/rideshare drop-offs are allowed at the main gate. Cycling is also viable via bike paths, and there are bike racks outside.
Are outside beverages permitted?
No, outside alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. The arena is fully licensed, so only drinks purchased on site may be consumed. Non-alcoholic drinks in non-glass bottles are usually okay, but outside soda or coffee is discouraged. You’ll find plenty of bars and drink stands inside at every event, so it’s best to plan to buy all refreshments there. Any plastic bottle or juice you bring must be empty or consumed before entry.
Is smoking allowed in the venue?
No. Like all indoor venues in New Zealand, The Trusts Arena is smoke-free inside. There is no smoking (including e-cigarettes) anywhere in the auditorium or concourse. If you need a cigarette or vaping break, you must step outside. There are smoking areas around the outer foyer if facility managers have designated one; otherwise head outside but keep the entry clear. This policy keeps the air clean for everyone during shows.
Where is the nearest hotel if I’m coming from out of town?
Many visitors stay in central Auckland hotels. Hidden Gem: The Cordis (Auckland city) or SkyCity’s hotels are about a 20–30 min drive east. Closer to Henderson, accommodations are limited to budget motels and serviced apartments. For a comfortable stay near the arena, try Quest Henderson (Hobson Street) or one of the local inns. West Auckland’s hotels tend to be smaller, so book early, especially around big events.
