About Queenstown Events Centre
Queenstown Events Centre (Te Pūāhuru) is a multi-purpose sports and events complex owned by the Queenstown Lakes District Council. It’s the largest indoor/outdoor venue in the district, set at the foot of the Remarkables near Lake Wakatipu (www.austadiums.com ) (grokipedia.com ). Opened in 1997 (www.austadiums.com ), it was built on land in Frankton adjacent to Queenstown Airport (about a 5–10 minute drive from the town centre) (www.austadiums.com ) (grokipedia.com ). The venue includes indoor halls and courts plus the Sir John Davies Oval (the main outdoor stadium) named after a longtime mayor . The centre offers a striking mountain backdrop and even views of aircraft on the nearby runway, making it a scenic location (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (lwb.co.nz ).
The Events Centre can host large gatherings: the main indoor auditorium covers about 1,707 m² and can seat roughly 1,700 people in theatre (seated) configuration, 800 banquet-style, or up to 2,000 standing (grokipedia.com ). Notably, the outdoor Sir John Davies Oval has a 1,200-seat grandstand plus grass viewing banks for a total capacity around 10,000 (expandable with temporary stands to about 12,000 for concerts) (www.austadiums.com ) (grokipedia.com ). In between is a gym (Alpine Health & Fitness), an aquatic centre (Alpine Aqualand) and multiple sports courts (indoor and outdoor courts for basketball, netball, tennis, hockey, etc.) for daily recreation (grokipedia.com ) (webadmin.qldc.govt.nz ). All areas have heating/cooling or are covered, and purpose-built facilities like a licensed bar & commercial kitchen, changing rooms, lounges and meeting spaces support events (www.qldc.govt.nz ) (grokipedia.com ). An elevator provides lift access to upper levels (so the venue is wheelchair-accessible) (www.qldc.govt.nz ), and it includes full AV and power infrastructure (including three-phase power) for performances (www.qldc.govt.nz ).
Beyond its practical role, the centre has become a local hub. It hosts school sports, team leagues (for example, mixed social netball leagues each summer (www.qldc.govt.nz )), and community programs. It’s also an important cricket venue: the Oval began hosting major games in 2001 and even New Zealand internationals from 2003 (grokipedia.com ). Over the years, it has accommodated regional competitions, cultural gatherings and community fairs, helping unite Queenstown’s residents in sporting and social events. Its dual indoor/outdoor design and proximity to the Remarkables give it a special character, blending active recreation with the area’s legendary alpine scenery (www.austadiums.com ) (lwb.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Queenstown Events Centre hosts an eclectic mix of activities year-round. On any given month you might find a concert, performance, sports match, expo or community event. Music and entertainment shows often include big-name acts and touring shows: for example, rock legends like the Little River Band, Joe Cocker and Jimmy Barnes have performed here (grokipedia.com ). In recent seasons the venue has drawn international festivals, such as the Bay Dreams South music festival (January 2024) featuring global DJs and artists like NLE Choppa, Kelis, Yelawolf and Sigma (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Comedy tours big on the Kiwi scene have appeared too – for instance, UK comedian Bill Bailey (Vaudevillean tour) and Jimmy Carr (Laughs Funny tour) both sold out shows. The centre is also available for corporate events, trade shows and private bookings (weddings, conferences and parties) in its large halls and meeting rooms.
Sport is another core use. The Sir John Davies Oval in winter hosts cricket and rugby; for example, New Zealand’s White Ferns women’s cricket team hosted Pakistan in a T20 and ODI series in December 2023 at Queenstown (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Locally, netball and basketball leagues use the indoor courts (Queenstown runs summer netball competitions here (www.qldc.govt.nz )). There are also regular school holiday sports camps, club training sessions and annual events like the Queenstown Cricket Carnival (a multi-week schools tournament). In summer the centre’s outdoor fields and turf support soccer and hockey. In short, its programming spans everything from professional sports and top-tier concerts to grassroots leagues and community fairs.
Tickets for events vary by type. Small expos and local shows can be very cheap (for example, the Southern Lakes Home & Garden Show charged only $5 for adults (www.eventfinda.co.nz )). Large concerts and tours typically cost more – often in the NZ$60–150 range for a concert seat or standing ticket, depending on the artist and booking tier. Stand-up comedy and theatre shows usually fall around NZ$60–100. Community or charity events may have discounted entry (sometimes offering free entry for under-16s). Keep an eye on local listings for each event’s pricing.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Queenstown Events Centre are generally sold through official channels. Most ticketing is handled by promoters or authorized sellers, not at a public box office. You can buy online via the event’s website or trusted ticketing service (often recommended on posters or advertisements) and sometimes at local outlets. For major shows, presales or local membership deals may be offered, so subscribing to the venue’s newsletter or following its social media can alert you when tickets go on sale. Smaller events or expos may sell tickets at the door if seats remain, but it’s safer to book ahead for evening concerts or weekends.
Box office information is limited (the centre is council-run), but staff at Queenstown Events Centre can answer questions by phone (advice: check the official QLDC or venue site for the contact number) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Early planning is wise: popular tours often announce dates months in advance, and tickets can sell out quickly in Queenstown’s busy season. If a show sells out, sometimes a few last-minute tickets are released by the venue’s box office or through fan resales, but always use trusted sources to avoid scams. When selecting seats, note that many events have reserved seating tiers (VIP, seated, general admission) as well as standing/GA areas. Keep in mind any child or concession policies – for example, expos may offer free entry for kids, but most concerts require their own tickets for everyone, including children.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Queenstown Events Centre can vary by event space. The main indoor hall (auditorium) is a large flat-floored room that can be configured for theatre-style rows, banquet tables or standing-room. In theatre mode it holds about 1,700 seats (grokipedia.com ). There are also mezzanine and meeting rooms (the mezzanine seats up to 150 in rows or 250 for cocktails (grokipedia.com )). For sporting events, the indoor area (two sprung wooden courts) has fixed lines layout but temporary seating can be added along the edges (webadmin.qldc.govt.nz ) (grokipedia.com ). The John Davies Oval outside has a small covered grandstand (≈1,200 seats) plus grass “hill” viewing all around, giving a casual mix of seated and lawn-side spectators (www.austadiums.com ). Pavilion-style benches and portable stands may be set up for big outdoor concerts.
The best seats depend on the event type. For indoor events like concerts or speeches, aim for centre-floor rows or mid-back for balanced sound. Front rows or standing areas give the closest view and sound but get packed first. Some events use the mezzanine for overlooking, which offers a good vantage if ground seats fill up. Try to avoid extreme side angles or right behind the speakers, as acoustics may distort there. At oval concerts (e.g. Bay Dreams), the stage is usually at one end; standing areas and the hill in front of the stage have the lively atmosphere, while the grandstand seats further back provide more comfort but feel farther from the action. For outdoor sports (cricket/rugby), midfield or behind the wicket (for cricket) gives the classic view of play. If the oval is muddy or wet, stay on solid ground (stands or hill) rather than the pitch side.
Generally, the centre’s acoustics are quite live (there can be some echo in the big hall), so centre seats avoid weird reflections. Any seat with a number has a clear sightline – there are no pillars blocking the main floor. Avoid entering or exiting during quiet performances. The venue also handles tradeshow setups: aisles and booth spaces can be opened for fairs (like the Home & Garden show), in which case there is no fixed seating and you walk the floor.
Getting There and Parking
Queenstown Events Centre is located at 33 Joe O’Connell Drive in the Frankton suburb of Queenstown. It sits just north of the airport runway and about 5–6 km (a 5–10 minute drive) from downtown Queenstown (www.austadiums.com ). By car, head toward the airport (Queenstown Airport Drive) then turn left onto Joe O’Connell Drive; the venue signs are clearly marked along the way. The centre offers ample free parking on site, with multiple carparks adjacent to the building (www.qldc.govt.nz ) (grokipedia.com ). Parking is generous (no charge after events) and typically the closest drop-off point if using a rideshare or taxi – there’s a main entrance where most visitors arrive.
Public transport is available. The Frankton Bus Interchange (served by Orbus routes from Queenstown CBD, Wanaka and Arrowtown) is adjacent to the venue, about an 11-minute walk from the centre (grokipedia.com ). Several blue/green Orbus routes (e.g. route 39) stop at Frankton, and from there it’s a brief walk (via the pedestrian bridge on Glenda Drive) along the lakefront to Joe O’Connell Drive. If coming from town, take the bus toward Frankton and alight at the interchange. Taxis and rideshares can drop you off right at the venue’s entrance (roadside drop-off is allowed), and there’s always space to wait around or queue up near the car park entry.
For those cycling or walking from nearby, the centre is close to the Queenstown Golf Club and has pedestrian access from the Frankton Track (which follows the lakefront). It’s about a 1 km walk from the O’Connells Shopping Centre (Frankton Mall) via wetlands trails if you’re staying or dining in the shopping area. During winter storms, the access roads can sometimes pack with snow or ice, so allow a few extra minutes if it’s raining or cold. Overall, getting to QEC is straightforward by car or bus ─ just remember that downtown Queenstown is uphill from Frankton, so plan extra time on busy summer nights when returning downtown.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, visitors enter through a foyer to find clear signage to the main hall, mezzanine and sports areas. Security and bag checks are routine for events, especially large concerts. As in most venues, expect to show your ticket at the door and pass through a quick check (they do not allow weapons, large backpacks or outside food/drink). Entry doors usually open 0.5–1 hour before an event. Staff are friendly and can direct you to seating areas, restrooms or concessions from the foyer. The centre is well lit and heated in winter (and air-cooled in summer) for comfort regardless of outdoor weather.
Food and drink: Queenstown Events Centre has an on-site licensed bar and kitchen (www.qldc.govt.nz ), so at evening shows you’ll often see a bar counter inside selling beer, wine and soft drinks. For musicals or concerts, food trucks or snack stalls may set up out front or in the foyer. In the foyer there may be small stands selling coffee, light snacks or event merchandise (remember to carry NZ cash or an EFTPOS card, as smaller events might only take card payments). During daytime expos or trade fairs, the venue’s catering staff often run a coffee/deli kiosk on the main floor serving sandwiches, pastries and hot drinks. For evening events, food is largely limited to between-act intervals; very few events allow patrons to bring outside food inside (outside drinks are strictly prohibited due to licensing). Vendors may hand out free water or promotional items, but we recommend buying from the bar or foyer kiosks if you want refreshments.
Facilities: There are restrooms on both floors (ground and upper level) – just follow the signs or consult a staff member. For families, baby-changing tables are available in the women’s restrooms. There’s no formal coat check service, but you can hang jackets on your seat or stack them behind a row. The venue is fully accessible: all areas are level or ramped, and a lift serves the upper suites. The main hall has built-in AV (projector screen and speakers) and a fixed stage near one end (www.qldc.govt.nz ). Backstage areas and dressing rooms exist for performers (though these are off-limits to the public). If an event has a program or brochure, it will usually mention any special features (e.g. “children’s play area available” or “vehicle required for outdoor fields”). In general, the inside atmosphere is casual – people often arrive in jeans or shorts, although some special events (like formal balls) might see dressier attire.
Nearby Amenities
The Queenstown Events Centre is surrounded by convenient services. Right next door is the Frankton shopping precinct – there’s a Countdown supermarket, cafes (coffee shops like Grind & Brew), fast-food (Subway, KFC) and casual eateries. For sit-down meals, a short 5-minute drive away on Glenda Drive are hotels and restaurants: Crowne Plaza’s Threesixty Restaurant & Bar is a popular upmarket choice, as is Room with a View (oceanfront dining) at nearby Skyline Queenstown. The Remarkables Park retail area (2 km south) offers more cafes and a casual brewpub (Burger Fuel or Jervois Steak House) if you’re looking for pre-show dining. On the way to the venue, you’ll also pass Queenstown Airport’s terminal – where there’s an Altitude Bar & Grill and a Burger King inside.
If you’re staying overnight, there are several hotels within easy reach. The Graetzl Hotel or Parkinson Apartments are 1–2 km west of QEC, and the new Heartland Hotel (Remarkables Park) is about 3 minutes north by car. Downtown Queenstown (with dozens of restaurants, bars and shops) is roughly 6 km away; allow about 10–15 minutes by car or taxi. For late-night plans after a show, Queenstown’s center (The Mall and Steamer Wharf area) stays lively till late with pubs and clubs (and there are always taxi and shuttle services heading back toward Frankton). That said, check bus schedules: the last Orbus away from Frankton is often around midnight, so after major events you might need a taxi or ride-share if you stay late.
When planning when to arrive, consider event type. For sports matches you might want to get there 10–15 minutes early to find a good spot; for concerts or theatre performances, arriving 30–45 minutes before start time allows parking and entry without stress. The centre itself opens a bit before events, but don’t cut it too close if you’re unfamiliar with parking or security procedures. Also note that in winter (June–August) it can get quite chilly by the lakefront at night, so guests often bring a light jacket for outdoor graduations from the car park to the venue.
What Makes This Venue Special
Queenstown Events Centre stands out because of its spectacular setting and versatility. Few venues in New Zealand combine indoor stadiums, aquatic centre, a full gym, outdoor fields *and* a major sports oval all in one place. The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu form an unforgettable backdrop for any event – it’s often cited as one of the most scenic cricket grounds in the world (lwb.co.nz ). For artists and audiences alike, performing or cheering under those alpine peaks creates an iconic experience (the centre’s operators even note that airliners taking off provide an unusual “plane-spotting from the field” side attraction (www.eventfinda.co.nz )).
Historically, the venue has hosted many “firsts” for Queenstown. It staged its first international cricket match (a Men’s ODI vs India) in 2003 (grokipedia.com ). It’s seen big-name outdoor concerts under the night sky and unique one-off festivals (for example, the area hosted the southern edition of Bay Dreams starting in 2024 (lwb.co.nz )). Local legends add charm: the Oval was once called Davies Park, honoring Sir John Davies (a former mayor) who was influential in establishing the grounds . Meanwhile the indoor centre’s 12-metre Rockatipu Climbing Wall gives Queenstown a climbing amenity you won’t find at most other event halls (grokipedia.com ). All this means both artists and locals love the centre for its “nothing else like it” feel – you’re never far from nature, even when indoors.
Culturally, the Events Centre is a hub for the region. It brings a metropolitan edge to a small town – touring New Zealand acts include Queenstown in their schedule, partly because of this venue. When big events come (like the Sunshine Festival or international games), they draw visitors off the mountain and into Queenstown’s economy. Locally, it’s woven into community life – families walk or jog around its fields, sports clubs use it daily, and graduates have their ceremonies there. Many Queenstowners say that catching a game or show at QEC is a real Kiwi summer tradition. In short, it’s special because it accommodates Queenstown’s adventurous spirit: blending sport, music, community and the outdoors in a way that suits both locals and tourists.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is designed to be fully accessible. There are ramps and an elevator for accessing upper floors, wide entrances, and disabled toilets on each level (www.qldc.govt.nz ). Wheelchair seating spots are usually on the main floor (or level entry) – if the event has reserved seating, book an “accessible” spot early. Service animals (like guide dogs) are allowed, but confirm for each event if any special arrangements apply.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Treat Queenstown Events Centre like any public venue. You can bring small personal items (diaper bags, phones, cameras without flash), but large backpacks or alcohol from outside are not allowed. Cameras and phones for pictures are usually fine – just be mindful of any recording restrictions (professional cameras or video cameras are typically banned unless part of the event staff). If it’s an outdoor event, bring sunscreen, a hat or jacket (Queenstown weather changes quickly). For indoor events, layers are still wise because air conditioning or warm bodies can make halls chilly or warm. Leave bulky coats in your car or wear layers that you can remove, since coat checks aren’t provided. Don’t forget your ticket(s) and ID (some events, especially those serving alcohol, may ask to verify age).
Timing: Arrive early. Even with big parking areas, events like concerts or finals can fill up fast, so arriving 15–30 minutes before start gives you time to park, use the restroom and pick up any tickets or vouchers. (Special events like a trade show or market sometimes open earlier; follow the specific schedule for those.) If you have accessible needs, come extra early so staff can help with parking or seating. Latecomers are usually directed to side entrances and may have to wait for a break in the show to get seated.
Dress Code: Attire is casual for almost everything – think jeans, shorts, shirts, comfortable shoes. Only rarely (for a gala or formal ball) would you see suits/dresses. For outdoor events, especially in winter evenings, wear warm layers and good shoes (the ground outside can be uneven). During summer, a light jacket is still handy as night temperatures can drop sharply by the lake. In the rare case of very wet weather, most of the centre is under cover, but the short walk from the car park to the foyer might get you damp – keep an umbrella in your car just in case.
Prohibited Items and Behaviour: Standard venue rules apply: no weapons, no smoking inside (there are outdoor smoking areas), no illegal substances. You may be wand-searched or bag-searched. Photography rules depend on the event – generally, casual phone photos for personal use are okay (especially at sports and festivals), but professional photography is not. Always respect staff instructions: security and event staff are there to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. If you see any spill or hazard, report it. Use of foul language or intoxicated behaviour can get you removed, so enjoy responsibly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t park illegally – stick to the designated lots. Don’t plan a route solely on GPS if there’s a festival; sometimes local traffic control uses alternate routes. If the event is likely sold-out, don’t assume you can arrive just as it starts and walk in. And because Queenstown is a tourist town, service can be slower in nearby cafes at peak times – so if you’re planning to eat beforehand, build in some extra time or eat earlier.
Connectivity: The centre does not generally provide free public Wi-Fi (mobile phone coverage in Queenstown is excellent, however). If you need internet or maps, rely on your phone data or Wi-Fi at home base. Charging stations might not be available, so keep devices charged. There are no ATMs inside; if you need cash for parking meter (some events require payment lines, though QEC parking is free) or parking at other lots, get cash in town or at Frankton beforehand.
Overall, a visit to Queenstown Events Centre combines a practical event experience with the town’s legendary beauty. Keep warm, use common event etiquette, and enjoy the view from the seats – whether you’re watching sport, enjoying a concert or just exploring the facility, you’re in one of the most photogenic venues in New Zealand!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Queenstown Events Centre?
The centre’s indoor auditorium (main hall) seats about 1,700 in theatre style (banquet 800, standing 2,000) (grokipedia.com ). The outdoor Sir John Davies Oval has about 1,200 permanent seats plus grass banks and temporary stands, bringing total capacity to roughly 10,000 (up to 12,000 for concerts) (www.austadiums.com ) (grokipedia.com ). Smaller meeting rooms hold 40–250 people.
How do I buy tickets for an event at the centre?
Tickets are sold through official event outlets (often online or at local box offices). The Queenstown Lakes District Council and event organisers announce on-sale dates. For major shows, tickets usually go on sale months in advance via the event’s website or ticketing platform. Sometimes small events sell at the door if it’s not sold out. Keep an eye on local media or the district council’s venue pages for ticket links. Buying in advance is safest, especially during summer tourism season.
Is there parking at Queenstown Events Centre and what does it cost?
Yes – Queenstown Events Centre provides ample free parking on site for visitors (www.qldc.govt.nz ) (grokipedia.com ). You can park in the lots adjacent to the building at no charge. On busy nights or festival days, parking fills up quickly, so arrive a bit early to get a space. There is no permit needed for the Events Centre carpark itself, but nearby downtown parking can be metered. Tip: drop-offs by rideshare or taxi are convenient at the main carpark entrance if you don’t need to park.
What public transport options serve the Queenstown Events Centre?
Public buses (Orbus) run to Frankton Interchange, which is about an 800m walk from the centre (grokipedia.com ). For example, Route 11/12 or Route 8/24 from Queenstown CBD run via Frankton. Get off at the Frankton bus stop, then follow signs along Glenda Drive to Joe O’Connell Drive. The walk is flat and takes about 10–15 minutes. Taxis and rideshares can also drop you at the venue entrance. There is no direct bus stop right outside, so the interchange is the closest hub.
Which seats give the best view or sound in the auditorium?
For concerts and shows inside, aim for centre-floor or mid-row seats in the main hall – these give balanced acoustics and a straight-on view. The sound system is central, so off-angle rows (far side or far back) may have minor stutter echo. Front-floor standing (if available) or the first few rows offer up-close views. For louder events, bring earplugs if you're sensitive. In general, avoid seating right at the very sides near the walls, as sightlines to the stage can be partial.
Can I bring my own food, drinks or alcohol into the centre?
No, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited (the venue is licenced). Small snacks or bottled water are usually allowed, but bringing outside meals or big coolers is not. Concessions (bars/cafes) provide most food/drink during events (www.qldc.govt.nz ). Tip: grab a drink or bite at the foyer coffee stand or bar inside, rather than try to sneak food in. If it’s a family event or expo, vendors often sell snacks and soft drinks on site. Otherwise, plan to eat before or after the event at nearby restaurants or the shop across the road.
Is Queenstown Events Centre wheelchair-friendly?
Yes. The centre is designed for accessibility: it has ramp and elevator (lift) access to all levels (www.qldc.govt.nz ), and accessible toilets on both floors. Staff will guide wheelchair users to the best seating area (usually ground floor sections). If you need assistance, call ahead or arrive early and parking staff can help you park close. Wheelchair space is typically on main-floor aisle position. Hearing-impaired visitors should note that audio-visual presentations include good speakers and sometimes captioning (contact the event organiser for specifics).
What are the bag/pocketknife/photography rules at the venue?
Standard security: large backpacks are opened and may be searched. Pocket knives, weapons and illicit substances are forbidden. Cameras are usually fine if handheld; however, professional camera equipment (big lenses, tripods) is typically prohibited without press passes. Check each event’s rules – often basic phone photography personal use is allowed, but recording the performance may be disallowed. Always follow staff instructions at the entrance for safety checks.
Does the centre have food and drink facilities on-site?
Yes. There is an on-site licensed bar and commercial kitchen (www.qldc.govt.nz ). For concerts/events, you’ll often find a bar counter selling beer, wine and soft drinks inside. Smaller events (e.g. expos or sports days) may have snack stalls or coffee carts in the foyer. No outside food is allowed, but local caterers regularly provide hot dogs, burgers or fish and chips at bigger events. In a pinch, there’s a small café/coffee stand in the foyer open during intermissions. For a full meal before or after, the nearby Frankton Mall or Remarkables Park have many eateries.
What happens if it rains during an outdoor event at the Oval?
The John Davies Oval itself has no roof, so outdoor events (like concerts or cricket matches) are rain-affected. In practice, most large rain-threatened events will continue unless conditions become dangerous. Bring rain gear (a poncho or umbrella) if weather is unsettled – note shelters at the grandstand and foyer. Organizers often postpone or delay schedules for severe weather, so keep an ear on announcements. Smaller outdoor activities (netball or social sports) may be moved inside to the courts if planned.
When should I arrive before my event?
A good rule is to arrive 15–30 minutes before the scheduled start. This gives time to park, find your entry at reception, use toilets, and get to your seat before doors close. Evening concerts often have long lines, so 30 minutes early is wise. Daytime expos or family events generally allow entry well before opening time; still, arriving early ensures you’re in place to enjoy everything. Late arrivals might miss announcements or opening acts, so plan ahead especially for big shows.
Are there any dress code or theme requirements at QEC events?
Not usually – dress is typically casual. For most concerts, sports or conferences, people wear daywear (jeans, shorts, T-shirts). Only formal galas or black-tie events (which are rare) would require smarter attire. If it’s warm, dress in layers or summertime clothes; if it’s evening or winter, bring a jacket. The centre isn’t overly cold, but sports events can be cooler. For themed events or costume parties, organizers will advertise any special dress code.
Is the centre indoor, outdoor or both?
It’s both. The Queenstown Events Centre combines indoor arenas, halls and facilities with large outdoor fields. The indoor complex houses the auditorium, gym, pools and courts for sports like basketball/netball (grokipedia.com ) (webadmin.qldc.govt.nz ). Outdoors is the Sir John Davies Oval (for cricket, rugby and concerts) plus sports fields and courts (tennis and hockey turfs). Depending on the booking, an event might be held fully inside (like a conference) or fully outside (like a music festival on the Oval), so check the event details to know where to go.
Is smoking allowed at the Events Centre?
No smoking or vaping is allowed inside the building. There are designated outdoor smoking areas marked by signage outside (usually away from major entrances). At outdoor festivals you may see larger smoking zones. E-cigarettes are treated the same as cigarettes. If you need to smoke, step outside to the designated area (staff will point the way). Always extinguish butts safely in the bins provided.
Are children allowed at events / is there an age restriction?
It depends on the event. The venue itself doesn’t have a blanket age rule – family fairs or general concerts welcome all ages. However, many events (especially those serving alcohol or aimed at adults, like EDM festivals or comedy shows) are R18 (18+). Always check the event’s rating. Under-18s usually need to be accompanied by an adult at events. On sports match days, kids are often welcome and sometimes get in free or at reduced price. In short, see the ticket listing: it will say if minors are allowed or a certain age is required.
Can friends or family members meet me inside or give me rides as I enter?
Yes, there is a drop-off area right by the main entrance on Joe O’Connell Drive. A friend can pull in to drop you off or pick you up; they’ll often wait by the curb while you go in. For meeting inside, the foyer is a good place to gather before heading to seats. If someone relies on you (like an elderly parent), mention to staff and they can help arrange easy access or front-door pickup. Note that after an event, traffic can get busy, so patience is needed when waiting outside.
