Events at Tauranga, Mount Maunganui

Name: Tauranga
Address: New Zealand

Find the best events in Mount Maunganui. This page updates daily to showcase parties, concerts, nightlife, festivals, DJ events, clubs, music festivals, things to do, and much more…

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Sun & Bass Festival Tour - Tauranga

1:00 p. m., sáb, 15 feb 2020

feb

Tauranga

Mount Maunganui

Kallidad / Ben Catley | Tauranga

6:00 p. m., sáb, 4 ene 2020

ene

Tauranga

About Mercury Baypark (Tauranga)

Mercury Baypark is Tauranga’s premier events complex, located at 81 Truman Lane in Mount Maunganui (Bay of Plenty) . It comprises a large dirt-track stadium (Baypark Speedway) and an adjoining indoor arena, making it one of New Zealand’s most versatile venues. The outdoor Mercury Stadium dates from 2000–2001 and, with seats for roughly 17,000–19,800 people , can host full-sized sports and speedway events. Its arena (the former TECT Auditorium/Lion Foundation Centre) holds about 6,000 spectators www.ticketfairy.com. The venue has undergone expansions – a roof was added over most stands in 2011 (now covering over 90% of spectators) – and has evolved through several sponsorship names (TECT Stadium, Trustpower/ASB Baypark) before becoming Mercury Baypark. Baypark’s dual-purpose design is unique: by day it can feature stock car racing or rugby games on the oval track, and by night it can stage international musicians or large exhibitions. It is perched at the foot of Mauao (Mount Maunganui), giving events a dramatic beachfront backdrop www.ticketfairy.com. Locals call the site “Mount Park” informally, and the venue is considered a point of pride for Tauranga www.ticketfairy.com . In short, Mercury Baypark matters to the local scene because it brings together world-class entertainment and community traditions under one roof www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com. Its sandy-white stands and coastal setting – rare for a sports arena – make it both scenic and memorable.

Events and Programming

Mercury Baypark runs an extremely varied event calendar year-round. As Tauranga’s multi-use hub www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com, it hosts everything from big-name concerts and festivals to trade shows, sporting matches, and community fairs. Typical programming includes: - **Concerts and Music Festivals:** Major touring acts often play the arena or stadium. Recent highlights include pop and rock headliners (for example, Bryan Adams and local stars Dave Dobbyn and Jordan Luck played the stadium in 2018 ) and EDM festivals. Notably, Bay Dreams (a large electronic music festival) kicked off the New Year here in 2018–2023 . Acts like DJ Snake, Foster the People and Pendulum have appeared at Baypark. In late 2024 the drum’n’bass group Pendulum headlined a New Year’s Eve show , and early 2025 saw the Juicy Fest (hip-hop line-up including Ludacris and Akon ). The indoor arena has hosted Kiwi talent and comedy as well – for example, singer Tones and I centrestaged a concert here in 2020 , and rock legend Meat Loaf performed in 2011 . Concert ticket prices vary widely (from around NZ$20 for small shows up to $80–150 for big acts) www.ticketfairy.com. - **Sports and Speedway:** The stadium’s prime tenants are motorsport events. The Baypark Speedway (Southern Hemisphere’s largest dirt track ) runs a season from late Spring through Summer, with major meet days like the “Battle of the Bay” attracting thousands. In winter months the flat oval sometimes hosts rugby league or local soccer matches. The indoor arena is equipped for court sports – national netball and basketball matches, volleyball or boxing bouts are frequently held there. - **Exhibitions, Conferences and Community Events:** The baypark complex includes large exhibition halls (over 7,800 m² combined www.ticketfairy.com) and meeting suites, so trade fairs (boat shows, home/garden expos, caravanning shows, etc.) are common. Community festivals (holiday celebrations, quiz nights, cultural expos) and corporate conferences also use the venue. Much of the year, at least one event is happening on any given weekend. For example, Tauranga’s home and country shows or a Star of the Sea festival concert might share the calendar alongside speedway races. In short, Baypark stays busy: on an average month it might host a motorsport meeting, a concert and a trade show all in succession www.ticketfairy.com.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Baypark events are sold through official channels only – either directly at the Bay Venues/Mercury Baypark box office or via authorized online sales www.ticketfairy.com. Large concerts and finals matches usually have advance sales many weeks ahead. Sign up for the Bay Venues newsletter or follow local promoters to get presale codes and on-sale dates. For well-known acts, seats can sell out quickly. If a show is popular, it’s wise to buy as soon as tickets go live www.ticketfairy.com. Some events carry presales through fan clubs or sponsors. The venue now partners with Ticketek for most shows , meaning you may be directed to Ticketek’s site to buy tickets. On the day of smaller events, a limited box office window may open a few hours before curtain, but queues can form, so plan to arrive early if buying in person. Box office at Baypark is located in the Mercury Arena foyer. You can pay by cash or card, and accessible seating (for wheelchairs/companion seats) can also be reserved through the official outlet www.ticketfairy.com. Note that there are no street scalpers in Tauranga – avoid any tickets not sold via recognized vendors. In general, Baypark tickets are tiered by area (e.g. general admission standing floor vs seated balcony), and prices will be labelled accordingly. If a show sells out, standby line (if any) or last-minute walk-up options are rare; the nearby Bayfair Centre often houses limited ticket vendors on big event days www.ticketfairy.com. Always double-check event time on your ticket (most concerts start around 7–8 pm, with occasional matinees in the afternoon).

Seating and Layout

Mercury Baypark’s layout depends on which side you’re in – the indoor **Mercury Arena (Lion Foundation Centre/TECT Auditorium)** or the outdoor **Mercury Stadium**: - **Mercury Arena:** This large indoor hall has retractable bleachers along its length and open floor space in the centre. For concerts, a stage is set up at one end, with seating on three sides and a standing area (general admission) on the floor. Best seats are generally in the lower tiers and centre blocks facing the stage directly www.ticketfairy.com. These mid-bowl seats have a balanced view and good acoustics. Upper-level seats (higher rows) can sometimes have limited sightlines if lights or speakers are at stage-side. For very close-up fans, a pit or GA standing zone on floor may be available – these fill up quickly. If you prefer to stand-and-dance, arrive early to claim a spot on the front floor. The Arena also contains private boxes and mezzanine suites per side, whose owners manage access. - **Mercury Stadium (Speedway Oval):** The outdoor stadium is an open-air oval track surrounded by grandstands. Covered seating runs along the long sides (north and south grandstands cover about 8–9,000 each) www.ticketfairy.com. These rows ascend away from the track. Centre rows of these stands give the clearest view of an infield stage or race action. Seats behind the stage (in one end-zone) have an obstructed view when a band sets up there. Since 2011, nearly all grandstand seats are under roof , so fans stay mostly dry. General admission tickets (for large festivals) may allow standing on the infield track side. Otherwise, everyone must sit in fixed seats. As a rule, mid-level seats near the middle of the stand (“50-meter line” area) offer the best viewing angle and sound balance www.ticketfairy.com. Avoid extreme corner seats if you care about clear sound: side fills or sound towers are typically placed near the centre of the arena, so corner stands may have muffled audio. - **VIP and Special Areas:** Some corporate boxes and lounges (e.g. Stadium Lounge, Premium Lounge) overlook the venue and require special tickets or invitations . These have cushioned seating and a bar. For most concerts, fans can purchase “VIP Pit” or “Gold Circle” spaces on the floor near the stage for a premium price. The venue also has open grassy areas outside the main stands – sometimes used for food trucks or unofficial seating during all-day festivals. Overall, seating at Baypark is quite flexible. Whether standing or seated, choose central and mid-tier spots for best experience www.ticketfairy.com. If mobility is an issue, accessible seating sections are available (book these through the box office in advance).

Getting There and Parking

Address: Mercury Baypark is at 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui (Tauranga) . It lies roughly 10 km east of Tauranga CBD and 15 minutes drive from Tauranga Airport. From central Tauranga, take State Highway 2 (Baypark Drive) east or Te Okuroa Drive. Approaching from Auckland/Hamilton side, use SH29A and exit at Baypark/Sandhurst Drive toward Mount. The **Truman Lane** entrance (#1) is the main access point . Follow Baypark Boulevard inside the complex to the parking areas. Car Parking: Mercury Baypark offers **ample free on-site parking** for eventgoers . In total there are thousands of car spots (up to about 5,000 cars) www.ticketfairy.com. Parking is complimentary (included with your ticket) www.ticketfairy.com. On large-event days, traffic crews will open multiple entries off Truman and adjacent roads to distribute cars. If the main lots fill up, overflow parking is arranged on nearby grass fields or side streets (still free) www.ticketfairy.com. There is also a dedicated secure bike park by the arena entrance for cyclists www.ticketfairy.com. Note: overnight parking is allowed only by prior arrangement (no camping on the grounds) . Electric Vehicles: Four public EV charging stations (Type 2) are installed in Carpark A . They run on pay-as-you-go (your charge), so bring a Type 2 charging cable. Rideshare/Taxi: Taxis and Uber/dropoffs can use the Truman Lane entrance; however, dropping off on the nearby State Highway (SH29A) is prohibited for safety . Instead, Ubers typically pull onto side streets like Exeter or Sandhurst, then guests walk a short distance to the gate . After events, designated pickup zones are set up near the main entrance or inside Bayfair Mall carpark, and Baypark staff often direct traffic flow to assist. Public Transport: Currently, no regular bus routes stop directly at Baypark www.ticketfairy.com. The closest major bus stop is at Bayfair Shopping Centre, about 1 km away on McCord Street www.ticketfairy.com. Bay Fair is served by frequent Baybus routes (e.g. Route 4 and 16), and the Baybus OnDemand shuttle covers the wider Bayfair-Papamoa area. From Bayfair, it’s a 10–15 minute walk or short taxi to the venue. During big events, some shuttle buses (chartered coaches) or Baybus vans may ferry people from Tauranga city or Papamoa – watch local notices. Many locals simply drive or carpool.

Inside the Venue

Entry and Security: Upon arrival, staff will check your ticket and often perform bag searches. Plan to allow a few extra minutes for security screening www.ticketfairy.com. Only small, clear bags are allowed – large backpacks or loose items may be refused www.ticketfairy.com. You will“funnel through metal detectors as a standard safety measure www.ticketfairy.com. Food and Drink: Once inside, you’ll find multiple food kiosks and bars around both the arena and stadium concourses www.ticketfairy.com. The in-house caterer sells classic “NZ event fare” – pies, hot dogs, French fries, sandwiches, potato chips – plus soft drinks and alcoholic beverages www.ticketfairy.com. There is at least one beer and spirits stand, as alcohol is licensed. Note that **outside food and drink is prohibited** (the only exceptions are bottled water and small snacks) www.ticketfairy.com. If you’re hungry or thirsty, everything must be bought from the venue’s vendors. Both cash and EFTPOS are accepted at concessions, but queues can form during breaks, so have payment ready. Restrooms and Amenities: Restroom blocks are plentiful: you’ll find toilets within every seating section and around concourses www.ticketfairy.com. All are clearly signposted. If you need help, ushers or volunteers can usually point you to the nearest facilities. A first-aid room is on site – consult any staff member if medical assistance is needed. Free Wi-Fi is available venue-wide on the “Baypark” network www.ticketfairy.com. Simply connect and accept terms to check event updates or call a ride share app. Additional Services: Coat/fur storage is **not** typically provided www.ticketfairy.com, so it’s best to wear what you bring. After big events, there is usually a lost-and-found office (ask staff). Many shows sell event merchandise (t-shirts, posters, souvenirs) at stalls near the entrance www.ticketfairy.com. Electrical charging kiosks for phones may be positioned around concourses – attendees have reported seeing chargers in 2023. Generally, cell phone coverage in the arena and stadium is good, especially with high towers nearby, but public wifi helps if your network is busy. Match Atmosphere: The vibe at Baypark range from family-friendly during day fairs to high-octane at speedway meets. Expect enthusiastic crowds – New Zealanders are loud and lively when cheering their favourites. The indoor arena’s atmosphere is more controlled (amplified music, lighting shows), whereas the open stadium space can feel breezy (sometimes chilly at night) – consider wearing layers if you’re sitting in an unheated section.

Nearby Amenities

- **Eating Nearby:** The Bayfair Shopping Centre sits right next door (just outside the Mercury Baypark fence) www.ticketfairy.com. It has a large food court and numerous fast-food outlets (pizza, burgers, Asian cuisine, coffee shops), making it a convenient spot for a pre-show meal or snack. If you have time, head north across the Tauranga Harbour Bridge to Mount Maunganui’s main strip: it’s only ~3 km away and offers dozens of cafes, seafood restaurants and bars. Popular choices include casual beach bars with craft beer, sushi trains, and wine bars along Maunganui Road. Locals often meet for fish’n’chips at Shelly or dine with ocean views at The Lighthouse by Sea. - **Drinking Spots:** For a relaxed drink after the show, there are several taverns and breweries within a 5-minute drive: The Cove & Coast Brew Company (Craft Beer) is beside Bayfair, and Jack Ray’s, Tap & Grind, or The Corner Store are in Mount. If staying up late, rideshares back to the city or a short taxi to Tauranga’s café district (eleanor-street, 15 minutes away) are options. - **Hotels:** Convenient short-stay options include the Pacific Shores Motor Lodge and Park Regis Azur Motel, both on Mount Maunganui’s Maunganui Road (~4 km north) www.ticketfairy.com. The Distinction Hotel by Bayfair (formerly Britannia) is immediately adjacent to Mercury Baypark www.ticketfairy.com. A few kilometres farther west (toward Tauranga city) are larger brands like Quest Tauranga Central and Trinity Wharf Hotel (on The Strand) www.ticketfairy.com. These city hotels are ~10–15 minutes’ drive away. (Booking in advance is wise on big event weekends.) - **Shopping and Services:** Bayfair itself has a full supermarket and many stores if you need supplies or tickets for other events. Nearby Papamoa Plaza (3 km south) also offers groceries and dining. For anything else (like souvenirs or last-minute needs), Tauranga CBD is about 10 minutes away by car.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Mercury Baypark complex stands out because of its **versatility, coastal charm, and community significance**. Architecturally, it blends indoor and outdoor spaces – an indoor arena seamlessly abuts a full-size outdoor stadium www.ticketfairy.com. This dual design is uncommon in NZ: the venue can host a dirt-track race on its oval one night and a sold-out rock show on the flat floor of its arena the next. The site’s coastal setting beneath the volcanic Mauao (Mount Maunganui) gives events a unique seaside ambience www.ticketfairy.com. Fans often comment on the scenic backdrop of the mountain and water, especially during open-air concert nights or speedway nights with sunset views. Culturally, Baypark has become a hub of Tauranga life. Long-time residents call it the city’s “hub of entertainment” www.ticketfairy.com. Its motorsport meets have been described as “the soundtrack to summer nights” , and for many families the speedway is a summer ritual. One local fan put it simply: at Baypark “it’s not just about watching cars go round a track – it’s about the people, the acceptance, and the smiles” . In other words, Baypark is community; it’s where kids grow up coming to races, and where visiting bands feel the warmth of Kiwi crowds. On the impact side, bringing global acts to Baypark has put Tauranga on the map. As one overview notes, the venue’s presence “has helped Tauranga blossom into a true events destination” www.ticketfairy.com. Promoters used to skip Tauranga for Auckland/Wellington, but now major tours include Baypark on their North Island legs. This means more tourism dollars and excitement for the city. Locals are proud that Baypark “brings world-class acts and local traditions together” www.ticketfairy.com – whether it’s an overseas rock star or a hometown dance troop, the community can share the stage. In summary, Mercury Baypark is special not just for its facilities, but because it embodies Tauranga’s vibrant mix of beach lifestyle and big-time entertainment.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Baypark is fully wheelchair-friendly. Lifts and ramps grant access to every level of the arena, and there are reserved seating sections and toilets for patrons with mobility needs www.ticketfairy.com. If you require accessible seating, arrange this when buying tickets or contact the box office in advance.
Dress Code: There is no formal dress code – casual, comfortable attire is fine www.ticketfairy.com. You’ll see everything from jeans and polos to summer dresses. The only time people “dress up” is for gala dinners or corporate dinners in the arena (and even then, smart-casual is usually enough). Wear flat shoes if possible, especially on stadium steps for outdoor events.
What to Bring: If the sun is out, bring sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen (New Zealand rays are strong). For evening events, a lightweight jacket may help. Ear protection is wise for high-volume shows (speedway and rock concerts can be loud). Don’t forget your tickets (email confirmation or printed) and ID if the event is 18+. Cash is handy for smaller vendors, though all major stalls accept cards.
Prohibited Items: Large backpacks, alcohol, glass bottles, weapons and illegal substances are not allowed. Smoking/vaping is banned inside all buildings; if you must smoke, do so in parking areas outside and well away from entrances. Photography rules vary by show – casual phone photos are usually okay, but no flash or professional cameras unless specifically permitted www.ticketfairy.com. Always heed any “no camera” signage. Small sealed water bottles are typically allowed www.ticketfairy.com, but most other outside drinks/snacks must stay in your car.
Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early on event nights. Long weekend or sold-out events can cause heavy traffic near Baypark. Use the Truman Lane exit and follow parking signs . Once inside, locate your seat or standing area before time for the best experience. Check the event’s start time carefully – concerts often begin around 7 or 8 pm, and doors usually open one hour prior.
After the Show: Allow extra time after a big event, as thousands of cars will be leaving. Listen to staff guidance for a smooth exit. For pickup, assemble at the agreed drop-off point (e.g. Bayfair Mall carpark or local landmark). Rideshare apps work, but networks can be busy – you might prefer waiting a little or walking a few hundred metres to a less congested road.
Venue Records and Policies: Baypark publishes a FAQ on its site with up-to-date policies. In general, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable unless posted for resale by the venue itself. If you have questions about lost items or event-specific rules (e.g. age restrictions or camera use), contact the Mercury Baypark office or consult your ticket email. The venue is smoke-free and follows NZ liquor licensing laws very strictly.
Stay Informed: Baypark’s official website and Bay Venues social media will list any special arrangements (like event parking maps, road closures, or on-site services). For example, during large holiday festivals they often set up extra food trucks and child-friendly areas on the lawn www.ticketfairy.com. Checking before you go can save surprises.

What is the seating capacity of Mercury Baypark?

Mercury Baypark has two main parts. The outdoor stadium seats roughly 17,000–19,800 people . The indoor Mercury Arena holds about 6,000 spectators (all configurations) www.ticketfairy.com. It’s one of the largest regional venues in NZ overall.

When did Mercury Baypark open?

Baypark officially opened in 2001 (the stadium was built in 2000). Since then it has been expanded (for example, a new roof was added over most seats in 2011) to modernize the facility for concerts and events.

How can I buy tickets for shows at Baypark?

Tickets are sold only through official outlets. Watch for announcements on the Mercury Baypark (Bay Venues) website or authorized ticketing partners (Ticketek). You can buy online or at the arena’s box office on event days. Subscribe to the Bay Venues newsletter for pre-sale alerts. Validated clients often have a Member or fan-club pre-sale for big concerts www.ticketfairy.com.

Are outside food and drinks allowed?

Generally no. Outside food and alcohol are prohibited. Security will only allow small snacks and sealed drinking water into the venue www.ticketfairy.com. There are many food/drink vendors inside, so plan to purchase concessions onsite if hungry or thirsty.

Is Mercury Baypark wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue is fully accessible. There are ramps and lifts to all seating levels, plus designated accessible parking and seating sections www.ticketfairy.com. Accessible toilets and companion seats are provided. When booking tickets, select the disability access option or call the box office to reserve these seats.

What transportation options are available?

Most visitors drive or take a taxi/ride-share. Mercury Baypark offers free on-site parking for thousands of cars . For buses, note Baypark isn’t served directly. The nearest bus stop is at Bayfair Mall (~1km away) www.ticketfairy.com, which is on local Baybus routes. During big events, extra shuttle services or Baybus OnDemand vans may run, but it’s safest to plan a car or rideshare trip. Rideshare drop-offs are allowed on side streets by Truman Lane (dropping on Hwy 29A is illegal) .

What are the best seats for concerts?

For arena concerts, aim for centre lower or mid-tier seats facing the stage – these give the best sound and view www.ticketfairy.com. For stadium shows with an infield stage, mid-level grandstand seats on the side opposite the stage (or in front rows on the side) are ideal. Avoid very high-back rows or far corners where sound may be weaker. General Admission (standing) areas on the floor can be great if you want to be up close, but they fill quickly.

Are kids allowed at events?

Many family-friendly shows and day-time events welcome children (even babies). However, check the event’s age restriction – some concerts or festivals are 18+ and will be strictly enforced with ID checks. If children attend, bring ear protection for loud shows (especially speedway races). There’s no special admittance age, but minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Baypark?

Yes. Mercury Baypark provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the venue www.ticketfairy.com. Look for the “Baypark” network and sign in. It’s handy for checking tickets or ridesharing after the show.

Is there a coat check available?

No, most shows do not offer a coat/bag check www.ticketfairy.com. To save time, it’s best to wear all you need or bring a small bag that you keep on your lap or tuck under your seat. Theft is rare, but always keep personal items secure.

What time should I arrive?

Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the posted start time. Concerts at Baypark typically begin around 7–8 pm. Speedway or sports events may start earlier, often late afternoon or evening. Arriving early reduces stress: it lets you park, clear security, find refreshments and your seat well before kickoff.

Can I buy food and drink on site?

Yes. There are multiple kiosks and licensed bars inside Baypark that sell snacks and beverages www.ticketfairy.com. The menu includes hot dogs, meat pies, burgers, fries and soft drinks, plus beer and wine during concerts. Cash and card are accepted. Lines can get long during intermission, so have payment ready.

Where can I park and is it free?

All Baypark parking is free for ticket holders . Enter at Truman Lane and follow signs to the designated bays . Supporters typically use the large flat lots adjacent to the stadium. After the show, pickup points are at the exit; staff will direct traffic flow. Please don’t leave valuables in plain sight in your car.

What is the Baypark dress code?

There is no special dress code – most people wear casual, comfortable clothes www.ticketfairy.com. Think T-shirts, jeans, shorts or a casual dress. The inland Breeze can get warm or cool; for stadium events bring a light jacket or sweatshirt if the night may be cool. Avoid high heels or unwieldy footwear on the graded seating steps.

Are pets allowed at Baypark?

Only service animals (assistance dogs) are permitted inside. No other pets are allowed on the premises. This is common for public venues in New Zealand. Always check official policy before bringing any animal.

Events at Tauranga, Mount Maunganui

Sun & Bass Festival Tour - Tauranga

Kallidad / Ben Catley | Tauranga

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