About ASB Stadium
ASB Stadium in Mount Maunganui refers to the outdoor motorsport venue at Baypark (now Mercury Baypark Stadium). It’s a multi-purpose stadium owned by Tauranga City Council and operated by Bay Venues (alamoana.net ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). The facility opened in 2001 (built in 2000) and was originally known as TECT Stadium (later Bluechip, then ASB Baypark, Trustpower Baypark) (alamoana.net ). An expansive venue with covered grandstands, it can seat roughly 17,000 spectators (www.bayvenues.co.nz ) (about 19,800 if floor capacity is included (alamoana.net )). A roof over the south stand (added in 2011) now covers over 90% of the seating (alamoana.net ) (www.bayvenues.co.nz ), so fans have shelter from rain or sun. Its signature feature is the massive dirt oval track – the Southern Hemisphere’s largest speedway circuit (www.bayvenues.co.nz ) – making it a focal point of Kiwi motorsport culture. The Baypark precinct also includes the adjacent Mercury Arena (formerly ASB Baypark Arena), an indoor sports and events centre opened in 2011 (alamoana.net ). Together these venues form Tauranga’s premier event complex near the base of Mount Maunganui.
Events and Programming
Mercury Baypark Stadium hosts a lively mix of events year-round. It’s best known for its **motorsport events**: Baypark Speedway holds stock-car racing, headline sprintcar and dirt track meetings, drifting (D1NZ) competitions and even high-powered jetsprint boat races in the warmer months (alamoana.net ) (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). For example, the stadium recently hosted the finale of the Valvoline D1NZ National Drifting Championship (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). In addition to weekly speedway meets (often weekly from spring to autumn), the stadium stages themed race nights (e.g. Fireworks Extravaganza) and can host boxing or community sports events. The precinct’s large indoor halls (Arena and TECT Auditorium) bring in seasonal expos and fairs – Tauranga Spring Home Show, Career and Business Expo, Tauranga Wedding Show and similar exhibitions have been held here (alamoana.net ).
Music and entertainment acts also play here. The indoor Mercury Arena has seen touring acts (Beach Boys, Bryan Adams, 10cc and others in past years (alamoana.net )), and the outdoor stadium has hosted big festivals. Notably, the annual **Bay Dreams** summer festival (electronic/pop music on New Year’s) used to occupy the Baypark Stadium and surrounding lawns (alamoana.net ). In late 2010s, Bay Dreams drew headliners like Cardi B and Diplo (though that festival’s format is subject to change). Occasionally theatres-in-the-round concerts and comedy shows are programmed. Overall, events at “ASB Stadium” range from family motorsport nights and community expos, up to sold-out concerts and festivals. Ticket prices vary accordingly – e.g. a stock-car night might cost only ~$20–30, while big concerts or festivals can go for $100+ per ticket. Ticket tiers often include general admission areas and reserved grandstand seats, with VIP/corporate packages available for premium shows.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for stadium events are sold through official outlets. There is an on-site box office at the venue where patrons can buy tickets during business hours (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Many events also sell tickets online via authorised New Zealand ticketing partners or the venue’s website (but we do not list specific sites here). Show dates and on-sale schedules are announced by promoters. For popular concerts or festivals, tickets typically go on sale several months in advance; it pays to sign up for venue or artist newsletters and follow social media for presale alerts. Note that some concerts offer early bird discounts or bank presales, so watch announcements closely. Box office sales usually open about a week before an event or as specified on the event’s sale notice. Day-of-show window sales may be available for less-crowded events, but major shows often sell out in advance. Pricing tiers depend on the event: flat-tier grandstand seating can range from a few dozen dollars up to premium levels (often $70–$120) for central seats, with general admission and VIP packages accordingly. Always purchase from official sources, and expect a small convenience fee if buying from a ticket agent.
Seating and Layout
The stadium’s layout centers on an oval speedway track. Surrounding it is one main grandstand (with covered seating) and secondary stands. Over 90% of all grandstand seats are roofed (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). The main grandstand is double-tiered, with rows of fixed seats; the opposite side has smaller stands and some grass banks. In general admission events (like speedway nights), spectators choose their spot on a first-come basis, but assigned seating is used for ticketed concerts or shows. The best seats often are in the middle of the main grandstand for an unobstructed view of the entire track. Those near the start/finish line or in corner boxes get up-close action but may be further from large screens or stage entrances. The nearest seats to the covered roof offer rain protection and clear sightlines, whereas edge-of-stand seats may experience steeper angles. Corporate suites and hospitality boxes are located furthest forward in the main grandstand. For a VIP experience, Mercury Stadium offers three rentable lounge rooms (capacities ~40 to 1,000) with private catering (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). These function rooms have glass views onto the track and are ideal for group events such as corporate functions, school balls or weddings. Sound is usually ambient from racing engines, though big concerts have professional PA rigs. The long oval gives a continuous vantage; the track itself is broad dirt, so the view is open from any side. Just avoid seats behind large pillars (if any) and double-check if standing viewing areas or fences will block part of the stage sightline for concert setups.
Getting There and Parking
Address: The stadium is located at 81 Truman Lane ({Mt} Maunganui, Tauranga) (alamoana.net ). It's just off Takitimu Drive (Road of the Long White Cloud) on the outskirts of Mount Maunganui, near the Redwoods Domain. GPS users should navigate to “Mercury Baypark Stadium” or the above address.
By Car: From central Mt Maunganui or Tauranga, follow State Highway 2 (Takitimu Drive) south towards Mount. Take the exit for Truman Lane/Baypark and turn towards the complex. Signs for Baypark/Mercury Baypark will guide you. Onsite parking is ample and free for venue patrons (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ) – over 5,000 spots are available. Parking lots surround the stadium; car parks are free of charge but fill up quickly for large events. Early arrival is advised. After major events, outbound traffic on SH2 can be heavy, so allow time or use the southern exit ramp on Truman Lane (BayLink project).Public Transport: Tauranga’s Bayhopper buses service routes between The Mount village, Bayfair and Tauranga CBD. Bus routes run along Maunganui Road (the main street) and along Takitimu Drive. The nearest Bayhopper stops are typically on Takitimu Drive a short walk from Truman Lane. (Check the latest Bayhopper maps – routes may change over time.) If using public transit, ride the route toward Bayfair/Mount and get off at the Te Maata or Bayfair stop, then walk or catch a local shuttle to Baypark Stadium. Note that Naki (Tauranga) doesn’t have a train service. Taxi and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) services drop off directly outside the stadium entrance on Truman Lane.Walking/Cycling: Cyclists can use local roads or designated bike lanes on Takitimu Drive. Bicycle racks are often available on site (though not official). The stadium is about 3–4 km from central Mt Maunganui (the shopping village area) – a pleasant 30–40 minute walk along Maunganui Road and Totara Street if weather allows. Helmets are recommended on roads. For large events, organizers sometimes coordinate shuttle buses from city or Mall carparks to ease parking congestion, so look for announcements (especially end-of-year festivals).Parking Tips: All on-site parking is walk-in only (no overnight camping). The venue enforces no tailgating rules except in designated areas, so be sure to park fully inside marked spaces. Overflow carparks are also free and signposted. Security may direct traffic after events, so follow attendants’ instructions. Always lock vehicles and do not leave valuables in plain sight.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry to Mercury Stadium, expect standard arena procedures. There is a main foyer and multiple gates into the grandstand areas. Security checks (bag inspection and metal detection) are common at event entrances. The venue has an on-site box office and information desk near the entry concourse (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Signage will direct you to ticket scans, gates, and facilities. The atmosphere is lively and casual – crowds tend to sport event T-shirts or team colors. The venue has plenty of restroom (toilet) blocks under the stands; at least one pair of unisex accessible toilets is provided on each side.
Food & Drink: Mercury Baypark enforces an exclusive catering contract. Bay Catering is the sole provider of food and beverages at the stadium (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). No outside alcohol or commercial food/beverage are allowed inside (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). You may bring non-commercial snacks (sandwiches, wrapped snacks) and bottled water, but alcohol, glass bottles, and takeout items are prohibited (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). A selection of concession stands and food trucks typically operate during events, offering beer, soft drinks, hot dogs, burgers and other stadium fare (pricing is moderate). The stadium has full bar service in hospitality areas, so alcoholic drinks are available on-site. Keep your ticket handy, as you may need it to access the grandstand or buy concessions. Note that smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere inside Mercury Stadium (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ); you must exit the venue and show security your pass-out to smoke. This is a smoke-free facility by law, with fines for violating the policy.
Accessibility: The stadium is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts to all levels (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). There are designated wheelchair seating platforms and companion seats in the grandstand, typically located on the front rows of covered sections. (If you need assistance finding accessible seating or toilets, venue staff can help.) Assistance / guide dogs for vision or hearing impaired patrons are allowed in all areas (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ); other pets and animals are not permitted. Audio assistance devices (for the hearing impaired) and large-print programs may be available by request at the entrance.
Other Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is sometimes provided in the main concourse (especially during daytime events); cellular mobile service is generally good. Look for event merchandise and souvenir stalls on the concourse and entrances – vendors sell T-shirts, caps and memorabilia for motorsport nights or concerts. Coat check and cloakroom services are uncommon here; it’s best to travel light. Some events (like evening races) may have a small pub area or beer garden behind the stands. Charging points for phones may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
The Mount Maunganui area surrounding Baypark offers plenty of pre- or post-show options. The stadium is adjacent to Redwood Park and near the Mount Hot Pools – the coastal town centre is just a 5-minute drive away. The main shopping street, Maunganui Road, has cafés, pubs and restaurants (try local seafood spots or casual diners on “the Ave”). Nearby Turret Road has a sports bar and pizzeria which often welcome event-goers. For a sit-down meal, explore eateries around Pilot Bay or the Mount Village. If you arrive early, consider walking along the Mount base track or grabbing coffee at a beachfront café (The Mount’s famous beach is 2 km east). There are several accommodation choices within a few kilometers: budget motels and holiday parks near Baypark, and beachfront hotels on The Mount itself. Downtown Tauranga (10–15 min drive north) also has late-night bars and shuttles but leaving events late at night by car can mean traffic, so factor that in. Public transit runs later on event nights, and rideshare services typically wait outside the stadium on Truman Lane. Always check event announcements – some festivals arrange after-party shuttles back to Mt or Tauranga city for convenience.
What Makes This Venue Special
Mercury Baypark Stadium’s unique character comes from its mix of motorsport heritage and community versatility. It’s one of the few large oval speedway facilities in New Zealand – in fact, it boasts the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dirt-track circuit (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). This means racing is a spectacular “up-close” experience. In addition, the grandstand was one of the first Kiwi stadium stands to get a genuinely covered roof (over 90% coverage) (alamoana.net ), so it's unusually weather-proof for an open stadium. The combination of track, grandstands and grassy in-fields creates a festival feel for big events. The annual Bay Dreams music festival (headlined by international DJs like Dimitri Vegas) became something of a cultural tradition on New Year’s at Baypark (alamoana.net ), drawing tens of thousands in past years. It was one of only a handful of large-scale beachside music fests in NZ, lending the stadium national prominence in entertainment circles. On the sports side, Baypark is central to the local racing scene – the Bay of Plenty Speedway club operates here, making it a local sports landmark. Many Bay of Plenty families have grown up attending the “Back to the Bay” Christmas speedway events or regional finals. The venue’s bright yellow Mercury-era makeover (new name and branding since 2024 (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz )) and its coastal location under the Mount give it a distinctly Bay of Plenty vibe. Artists and athletes often comment on the crowd’s energy; drivers love the speed and width of the track, and gig-goers enjoy the open-air summer nights. All these factors – the massive track, quirky yellow-and-black theme, summer-sun setting by the beach, and mix of working-class motorsport and high-end concerts – make ASB (Baypark) Stadium a truly one-of-a-kind venue in New Zealand.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan for comfort and compliance to ensure a great experience. Dress in layers and arrive early. The stadium sits by the harbour and can be windy, so a light jacket may be needed even in summer nights. A hat and sunscreen are wise for daytime events, and earplugs are recommended during motorsports (it gets loud with engine noise). Closed shoes are better than flip-flops, since ground surfaces can be muddy or gritty. Bring your printed or mobile ticket and photo ID if needed (some events may require age/ID checks).bayparkspeedway.co.nz ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz )). Likewise, leave professional cameras or recording gear at home unless media-approved – personal phones and small cameras are fine for photos. Note that children under 14 must have a supervising adult (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ), and if you bring an infant to outdoor events, remember that facilities for strollers are limited (ramps exist but space is tight). Remember that the stadium enforces a strict no-smoking policy (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ), so designated outdoor smoking areas are on the venue’s perimeter. Keep cash handy for concessions if you prefer (cards are accepted by the caterers but lines move faster if you have some cash).www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). Be mindful that alcohol is strictly controlled; only drinks bought at the venue can be consumed onsite (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ), and public intoxication laws apply. Finally, most events are rain-or-shine – with 90% roof coverage (alamoana.net ), only indoor storms with lightning would delay racing or performances. Check the day’s forecast and remaining tickets if the weather looks bad, but usually shows go ahead. By knowing the rules and planning ahead (parking logistics, tickets, and personal comfort), visitors can make the most of ASB Stadium’s lively atmosphere and unique setting.
Where exactly is ASB Stadium located?
ASB Stadium (Baypark Stadium) is at 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga (alamoana.net ). It lies on Takitimu Drive just off SH2 at Baypark (next to Redwood Park). Look for signs or “Mercury Baypark Stadium” on GPS. The venue is adjacent to the Mount’s Redwood Domain and a few minutes’ drive from the main Mt Maunganui village.
How many people can ASB Stadium hold (capacity)?
The stadium seats roughly around 17,000 spectators (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). In total it can accommodate slightly more if you count standing areas (cited up to ~19,800) (alamoana.net ). All seats are on covered grandstands (over 90% roofed (alamoana.net )). Use this as a guide – sold-out grandstands roughly equal that audience size.
What types of events happen at ASB Stadium?
The stadium hosts mostly motorsport events, including stock-car racing, sprintcars, jetboat races and drifting competitions (the Baypark Speedway series) (alamoana.net ) (www.bayvenues.co.nz ). It also sees major entertainment events: for example, it was the venue for the annual Bay Dreams summer music festival and other concerts in past years (alamoana.net ). Trade shows, expos (home shows, wedding expos) and community events occur in the special event halls of the complex (alamoana.net ). In short, from weekly race nights to big concerts and fairs, ASB Stadium is a multi-purpose event venue.
How do I buy tickets for events, and is there a box office?
Tickets can be purchased through official ticket outlets and usually the venue’s box office (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Mercury Baypark Stadium has an on-site box office window for in-person sales (open weekdays or event days) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). However, most people buy online via authorized vendors (see event announcements for links). It’s wise to buy early for popular shows. Check the event date well before the show to catch early sales or presales. For smaller events, a limited number of tickets may be sold at the gate on the day of the event.
Is parking available and does it cost anything?
Yes, Baypark Stadium has a large free parking area . In fact, there is on-site parking for around 5,000 vehicles (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). Parking is free of charge (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ) for event attendees (with valid parking permit or stadium entry). Lots are adjacent to the venue entrance. On busy event days, arrive early to secure a spot. Note that after the event, traffic exiting SH2 via Truman Lane can be heavy, so patience is needed when leaving the parking area.
What about public transportation and rideshare?
Public buses (Bayhopper) service routes along Takitimu Drive near Baypark Stadium. You can catch a Bayhopper from downtown Tauranga or Mount Maunganui that stops not far from Truman Lane (check current bus route maps). There’s no train station nearby. Many attendees drive or carpool. Rideshare/taxis can drop passengers at the stadium’s main entrance on Truman Lane. After events, rideshare pick-up can usually be done at the same drop-off point. Plan ahead as final buses after events may be limited.
Is the stadium wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire Mercury Baypark complex is fully accessible. There are ramps and elevators to reach all grandstand levels (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). Reserved wheelchair seating areas are located on level-ground sections. Accessible toilets are provided in each restroom block. Assistance/guide dogs are welcome (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). If you need special arrangements or help, the reception desk (9am–5pm weekdays) or event staff can assist.
Can I bring my own food or alcohol into the stadium?
No. Baypark Stadium has exclusive catering rules. Outside groceries, take-out food, or alcoholic beverages are not permitted (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). Only commercially sealed water or non-alcoholic drinks are allowed inside (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). You should purchase food and drink at the stadium’s concession stands. Alcohol is available for purchase inside (for those 18+) but you may only consume drinks bought on-site (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). If you do bring disallowed items, security will request you to dispose of them.
Are children allowed, and is there an age limit?
Children of all ages can attend ASB Stadium events, but there are some restrictions. By policy, children under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). For certain events (like concerts or races with alcohol), under-18s may not be allowed in late-night sections or general admission bars. Also remember that speedway races can be loud, so bring ear protection for young kids. In general, family-friendly events welcome prams/strollers, but shows with 18+ tickets (like some music festivals) will be restricted to adults.
Is smoking permitted inside the venue?
No. Mercury Baypark Stadium is a 100% smoke- and vape-free venue (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). This includes all forms of smoking. If you need to smoke or vape, you must exit the stadium through the designated gates and use the nearby smoking areas. Venue staff will provide you with a pass-out card if you ask to leave and re-enter.
What’s the difference between ASB Stadium and ASB Arena at Baypark?
They are two venues in the same complex. The stadium (ASB Stadium) is the open-air dirt track and stands (now called Mercury Baypark Stadium) used for racing and large outdoor events. The Arena (formerly ASB Baypark Arena) is a fully indoor sports and events hall built in 2011 (alamoana.net ). The Arena hosts indoor sports (netball, indoor football), expos, conferences and some concerts, while ASB Stadium hosts outdoor races, concerts and speedway events.
Who owns and operates Baypark Stadium?
The stadium is publicly owned by Tauranga City Council and managed by Bay Venues Limited (alamoana.net ) (www.mercurybaypark.co.nz ). Bay Venues is a Council-owned company that runs the Mercury Baypark facilities (stadium, arena and other local venues). The venue’s branding (ASB, Trustpower, Mercury) reflects naming-rights sponsors, but the council remains the owner. So it’s a community asset run under council guidance.
Can I bring a service dog or pet?
Guide and assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of the stadium (bayparkspeedway.co.nz ). However, other pets (cats, dogs, etc) are not allowed. If you need to bring a certified service animal, simply notify staff on arrival. Carry any necessary veterinary documents. All service dogs must remain leashed or under control at all times at the venue.
