About Central Energy Trust Arena
Central Energy Trust Arena is Palmerston North’s flagship multi-use sports and events complex. Spanning roughly 18 hectares just north of the city centre, it’s owned by the city council and is one of New Zealand’s busiest venues. The Arena includes a large outdoor stadium (Arena 1) with seating for up to 18,000 people, plus several indoor halls and courts (Fly Palmy Arena, Arena 3, the B&M Centre and Arena 5). It hosts 36 different sporting codes – from rugby (Manawatū Turbos in the NPC and occasional Hurricanes Super Rugby matches) to basketball, gymnastics, archery and more – as well as trade shows, exhibitions, dinners and festivals.
Signature features include its full-size speedway track: a 431m clay oval around the main field, which is home to national stockcar and sprintcar racing events. A modern pedestrian bridge and entrance plaza link the Arena to the central city. The main grandstand (including the J.A. Russell Supplies Lounge on level 4) offers panoramic city views out to Mt. Ruapehu. The site has historic significance – it hosted New Zealand’s first professional Super Rugby match in 1996 (Hurricanes vs Blues) and was partially opened by Prince Charles in 1981 – and it now draws over 450,000 visitors per year. Community groups form the heart of its users (the city reports 95% of bookings for local sports and clubs), but it also regularly attracts major regional tournaments and national shows.
Events and Programming
The Arena stages a packed calendar year-round. Its focus is sport: in winter fans flock to rugby matches (Manawatū Turbos Mitre 10 Cup/NPC games and sometimes Hurricanes games) and example events like National Indoor Bowls, volleyball or basketball finals. In summer the stadium comes alive under lights for international-standard speedway racing (Superstocks, sprints and demolition derbies, including the annual NZ Superstock Teams Championship). Soccer also appears – for example, the Wellington Phoenix flew in for a local A-League match in January 2023. The indoor halls host countless local and national sports tournaments (secondary schools volleyball, badminton, futsal, netball and more), plus regular community leagues and school sports.
Occasionally the Arena is booked for concerts and entertainment. Fly Palmy Arena (Arena 2) seats about 5,000 and is used for indoor shows, while other halls can be configured for exhibitions or smaller performances. Recent highlights have included New Zealand bands and touring festivals – for example, Kiwi rockers The Exponents (Apr 2023), pop star BENEE (Aug 2021) and the Juicyfest hip-hop lineup (Jan 2023) have played here. The complex also runs trade shows and expos (home and garden shows, career and education fairs), conferences and community events. Ticket prices vary – minor community or school events may be free or under NZ$20, while large concerts and Hurricanes games typically range from around $20 up to $80–$100 for premium seats.
Tickets and Booking
Most tickets for Arena events are sold in advance through official channels. When an event is announced, the promoters (via Palmy Venues) publish a sale date, and tickets can usually be purchased online or by phone. The Arena itself does not maintain a permanent box office on site, so plan to buy tickets ahead of time. Advance purchase is recommended, as popular events often sell out. Watch local media or the Palmy Venues website for announcements and sign up for email alerts. Ticket prices depend on the event: community sports games might be free or a few dollars, whereas major concerts or rugby matches can range from about $20–$100 (children’s and family discounts are sometimes offered).
Seating and Layout
Arena 1 (the outdoor stadium) is an open-air oval. One side features the main multi-level grandstand (with lower/middle/upper levels and the J.A. Russell Supplies Lounge), while the opposite side and ends have concrete terrace steps or grass banks for more casual seating. In total, fixed seating plus terraces can hold around 18,000 spectators. There is no roof over the stands (except a small cover over the highest level of the main stand), so prepare for sun or rain at outdoor games. A floodlit, high-definition video scoreboard at one end means you can watch replays and scores even if you’re not facing the action.
The field is a standard rugby/football pitch (165m x 95m) surrounded by the speedway track. For concerts or festivals, a stage is usually set up at one end of the stadium and standing or temporary seats are placed on the grass and track areas. The smaller indoor arenas (Fly Palmy Arena, Arena 3, B&M Centre, Arena 5) have fixed tiered seating around a central court or floor; capacities range from a few hundred up to about 5,000 (Fly Palmy Arena).
In sports mode, the best view of play is generally from the middle rows of the main grandstand, facing the centre of the field. Many fans also sit on the grassy hills beside the track (though remember there are no backs on those seats). For concerts or shows, lower-tier side seats and front-of-stage (general admission) areas give the clearest sightlines. The highest levels of the grandstand and VIP lounges offer an excellent panoramic view of the entire field and city. Wherever you sit, note that seats directly behind a goal or behind the stage may have obstructed sight (for example, sitting behind the rugby goalpost limits view of the far end, and seats directly behind a concert stage cannot see the performance).
Getting There and Parking
Address: Central Energy Trust Arena is at 61 Pascal Street, Palmerston North. It’s about a 5–10 minute drive or a 15-minute walk from downtown (The Square). From the city centre, follow Rangitikei Street north and turn east onto Pascal Street to reach the venue.
Parking: A large on-site car park off Pascal Street serves the Arena (several hundred spaces). On-street parking and nearby council lots are metered in business hours (around $1–2.50/hour) or have an all-day $5 rate; however evenings, Sundays and public holidays usually allow free parking. For major events the home car park is typically used, so arriving early helps. Rideshare and taxi drop-off/pick-up is available at the main gate.
Public Transport: There are no bus stops inside the stadium grounds. The nearest bus and coach stops are at The Square (Te Marae o Hine) in the CBD – about 800m from the Arena. Some city bus routes on Rangitikei or Tremaine Street stop within a short walk of Pascal Street. InterCity coaches also stop at The Square. If your event finishes late, note that city buses may have limited frequency, so pre-booking a taxi or rideshare for the trip home is wise.
Inside the Venue
At the start of an event, you’ll enter through Pascal Street gates. Staff will scan your ticket and check bags briefly. Expect lines before large events, so arriving early is a good idea. The atmosphere is friendly and casual: fans often wear local team or event gear and chat with neighbours in their block. Concession stalls are spread around, selling hot pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, ice cream, coffee and soft drinks – think typical Kiwi stadium fare. Licensed bars inside serve beer, wine, cider and non-alc drinks. A couple of food trucks may also be on-site, especially for big events. Most outlets accept card or EFTPOS, though having small change can make quick purchases easier. You cannot bring your own alcohol or cooler – all food and drink for sale must be consumed inside.
Facilities include many restrooms (portas or permanent) and accessible toilets at each concourse level, plus a baby-changing room near the main entrances. Drinking fountains are available so you can refill water bottles. Free public Wi-Fi covers parts of the arena buildings, and mobile phone signal is generally strong everywhere inside. If you lose something, staff/security near the gate can direct you to the lost-and-found. Merchandise stands appear during big games (selling team jerseys, scarves, etc.) and at concerts (selling artist T-shirts, CDs). Note that the Level-4 J.A. Russell Supplies Lounge – a modern glass-walled hospitality bar – is only accessible to pre-booked function guests or VIP ticket holders.
Nearby Amenities
The Arena is adjacent to a small convenience zone. A petrol station with a mini-mart stands just off the entrance (on Racecourse Road) offering snacks, drinks, ice and basic groceries. A dairy (corner shop) nearby sells milk, chips, sandwiches and other quick items. If you need anything more, the central city is only a 10–15 minute walk south. The main shopping area (The Square) has ATMs, a pharmacy, supermarkets and restaurants. For example, on Broadway/Church Street you’ll find fish-&-chip shops, cafes (Café Kartel, Hood) and local pubs. Many fans stop into a café or curry shop downtown before or after a show.
Overnight visitors have plenty of options: hotels like The Distinction (Altitude Hotel), Copthorne (Kingsgate) and Quest on The Square are within a couple of kilometres. Several motels line nearby streets (e.g. Alma Motor Lodge on Rangitikei). If you arrive early or depart late, be aware that city parking fees apply in the nearby streets during business hours; evenings and Sundays often allow free parking. Taxi and Uber drivers typically wait by the venue’s exit after events, as late-night buses are infrequent.
What Makes This Venue Special
Central Energy Trust Arena stands out for its unique blend of history, modern upgrades and community focus. It isn’t just another stadium – it has been the centre of Palmy life for generations. It hosted New Zealand’s first Super Rugby game in 1996, and still brings top-tier rugby and concerts to town that smaller cities rarely see. The combination of a grass field with an integrated speedway track is unusual, offering multiple forms of entertainment under one sky. The recent stadium improvements (a pedestrian bridge, big video screen, enhanced lighting and seating) mix well with its old-showgrounds charm. Local fans often note that the Arena “has more life than you’d expect in a city this size.” In short, its mix of high-tech facilities, rich history, and overwhelming community spirit make it a much-loved Kiwi venue.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The arena is largely wheelchair-friendly. Ramps and an elevator connect all public seating levels in the main stand. Accessible (disabled) toilets and parking spots are provided. If you require special seating, book via Palmy Venues early. Strollers can use the concourse areas for rest (the walkways are wide) but must be folded or parked during the event.
What to Bring: Dress for the weather. The main stadium is uncovered, so use sunblock or a hat for daytime events, and a jacket for chillier weather. For evening motorsport or fireworks shows, bring ear protection and safety glasses if you wish – the races and esplosions can be very loud! Small folding chairs or a blanket help on the grass banks (but do not block aisles). You can carry small personal items, but oversized bags may be asked to be checked or returned to your car.
Venue Rules: No outside alcohol, large flags or banners, umbrellas, weapons or illegal substances are allowed. Smoking (including vaping) is only permitted in designated outdoor areas well away from the stands. Starters, lighters, flares and air horns are banned for safety. Mobile phones and personal cameras are fine for photos, but video recording equipment and drones are not allowed without permission. Always follow staff instructions when entering or exiting – they’re there to keep everyone safe.
Arrival Tips: Gates often open 30–60 minutes before event start. Arrive early to secure good seats and avoid last-minute queues at security or concessions. Food stalls (pies, burgers etc.) can get busy at half-time, so factoring a pause or arriving very early is a good idea. If you’re driving and parking, allow extra time for event traffic. Plan your trip home too: local buses and shuttles may stop after the event, so it’s safest to arrange a taxi or rideshare if you’ll leave late.
What is the address of Central Energy Trust Arena?
Central Energy Trust Arena is located at 61 Pascal Street in Palmerston North. It is about a 5–10 minute drive north of the city centre (The Square). If you’re coming by car, follow Rangitikei Street north from downtown and turn onto Pascal Street. The stadium and its large car park will be clearly signposted.
What parking options are available and how much does it cost?
The on-site car park off Pascal Street holds hundreds of vehicles. Parking is usually free after hours and on weekends; on weekday business hours it follows city meter rules (around $1–2.50 per hour or $5 all-day in lots). Many council lots nearby (on Cuba and Cook Streets) charge similar rates. Always check signs. Taxi or rideshare drop-off is allowed at the main entrance for quick access.
How can I get to the Arena by public transport?
There is no direct bus stop at the stadium. The closest public transport hub is Te Marae o Hine (The Square) in downtown Palmerston North, about 800m away. City buses or InterCity coaches stop there. Some local bus routes on Rangitikei or Tremaine Street drop off within a short walk of Pascal Street. If your event finishes late, buses may not run, so pre-book a taxi or rideshare for your return trip.
How do I buy tickets for events at the Arena?
Tickets are sold through official ticketing partners, not at a permanent venue box office. When events are announced, ticket outlets (often online sites linked via Palmy Venues) will list sale dates. You can buy tickets online or by phone. Always purchase from the authorised event sources. Door sales are only possible when tickets remain – major concerts and games often sell out in advance, so buying early is advised.
When do tickets typically go on sale?
Sale dates vary by event. Generally, tickets go on sale as soon as an event is officially announced. For big shows or popular sports fixtures, this can be several months in advance; smaller local events might go on sale a few weeks out. Check local event listings or sign up for the Palmy Venues newsletter to get alerts when sales start. Promoters often advertise any advance (presale) dates too.
Are on-site box offices or door sales available?
The venue does not have a permanent box office open to the public. Tickets are primarily sold online. Occasionally, if the promoter chooses and if tickets remain, a temporary box office window may open during the event day, but this is not guaranteed. If an event is sold out in advance, no additional tickets will be available at the gate.
What are the best seats for games or concerts?
It depends on the event. For sport, centre seats in the middle tier of the grandstand (facing the field centre) give the best view. For concerts, lower-level centre sections or floor areas near the stage are ideal for sound and sightlines. The upper concourse vantage gives a panoramic view of the stadium. Avoid extreme sidelines: at rugby games, seating directly behind a goalpost may not see the far end, and at concerts anything behind the stage will have its view blocked.
What is the seating capacity of the Arena?
The outdoor stadium (Arena 1) can accommodate around 15,000 seated spectators, and up to roughly 18,000 including additional temporary seating or standing areas. The top-tier Fly Palmy Arena (Arena 2) holds about 5,000. Other indoor halls range from a few hundred up to about 1,300 (the B&M Centre). For concerts, floor standing room can increase total capacity slightly.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to the event?
Generally, no. Food and alcohol sold inside are controlled by the venue’s concessions and liquor licence. Outside alcohol or large food coolers are not allowed. Small snacks or closed water bottles might be tolerated at some events (especially for kids), but it’s safer to consume only items purchased inside. Check specific event rules if you need to bring baby formula or medicine.
What security checks or bag policies apply?
All visitors pass through a simple security screening. Bags are subject to search, so avoid bringing prohibited items (weapons, glass, large bottles, etc.). Clear-bag policies may apply on big event days. Large backpacks or suitcases are discouraged. Follow staff instructions and signage. If you arrive with a large item or suspicious object, be prepared for it to be checked or confiscated for safety.
Is the Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The stadium was designed with accessibility in mind. Lifts and ramps connect to each level of the main grandstand, and there are designated wheelchair bays and companion seats. Accessible restrooms are on the concourses. Disabled parking is available near the gate. It’s still a good idea to let the ticketing office know if you require special seating or extra assistance.
What food and drink options are available inside?
Inside the Arena you’ll find a variety of concession stands selling pies, sausage rolls, burgers, hot dogs, chips, ice creams, cotton candy and hot chocolate, along with coffee and soft drinks. Licensed bars serve beer, wine, cider and non-alcoholic beverages. Prices are typical stadium-level. For specific dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.), options may be available at larger events, but it’s safest to inquire with the event organisers if it’s important.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed?
Small personal cameras and smartphones are generally allowed for photography. Professional equipment like DSLRs with big lenses, video cameras or tripods usually require special permission. Event promoters often forbid recording of the performance (especially at concerts), so double-check the specific event policy. Drones are never allowed without clearance. Always remain seated and discreet when using a camera so as not to distract other attendees.
Are there age restrictions for events?
No general age limit applies to the venue itself – most events are family-friendly. Children can attend free or at reduced price, especially for sports. Concerts and races may be rated (e.g. R18 or PG), in which case ticketing information will state any age restrictions. If an event isn’t age-restricted, minors are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian if under 16.
Is smoking allowed inside the arena?
Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside any part of the venue. A designated smoking area exists outside – typically signposted near the exits. Please move well away from crowds if you smoke. Failure to comply with the no-smoking policy may result in ejection from the event.
What do I do if I lose something or forget an item?
If you lose an item, immediately notify nearby staff or go to the information/security desk (usually near the main gate/foyer). They will check the lost and found. Smaller items found later might be held at the city’s lost property centre. If you forget something important (like tickets or identification), return to your car or home if possible – replacement passes aren’t typically issued at the gate.
