About Trustpower Arena
Trustpower Arena (currently known as Mercury Baypark Arena) is Tauranga’s premier indoor multi-purpose venue. Conceived in 2005 to meet the city’s growing demand for a large events space, it opened in August 2011 . The facility cost about NZ$42 million to build . Since then it has hosted everything from national sports championships and trade shows to conferences, community activities and international music concerts . With over 4 million visitors in its first decade , it became a hub of local culture and business – officials note that bringing big entertainment to Tauranga keeps millions of dollars in the local economy .
Mercury Baypark Arena is located at 81 Truman Lane in Mount Maunganui – part of the Baypark events complex that also includes a stadium and open-air site. It sits on State Highway 2, only minutes from Tauranga Airport and overlooking Mount Maunganui’s beach suburbs . The site is very accessible: it has on-site parking for about 5,000 vehicles and easy highway access, making it simple for visitors from around the Bay of Plenty to reach the venue.
The arena itself comprises two large halls under one roof . In total there are nine full-size timber-sprung courts (six in one hall, three in the other) . The larger hall (the Lion Foundation Centre) has a built-in recessed stage, bleacher seating on the sides, and retractable stands to open up a flat floor . The smaller hall has six courts side-by-side and a clear-span roof (no support pillars) . Both halls come with cutting-edge features – large LED scoreboards, big-screen video displays for replays, and engineered acoustics so that even a drifting car outside won’t disturb an indoor event . Bright, broadcast-quality lighting (about 1100 lux) and full climate control ensure concerts and games can be televised easily .
In spectator mode, Mercury Baypark Arena can accommodate very large crowds. One configuration seats around 4,400 people in its main arena . With floor standing space, its capacity is now roughly 6,000 people – by comparison, Bay Venues notes that upgraded capacity makes it comparable to Wellington’s TSB Arena or Hamilton’s Claudelands in size . The combined indoor floor space is about 13,000 m² , which can house hundreds of exhibition booths or a banquet for over a thousand. The venue also includes four interconnecting meeting rooms (for corporate events) and a large commercial kitchen . A café in the foyer and on-site Bay Catering facilities serve food and drinks throughout events.
Originally sponsored by the Trustpower energy company, the arena was long known as Trustpower Baypark Arena . In 2023 the naming rights passed to Mercury, so the indoor facility is now called Mercury Baypark Arena . (This is the same place – only the name changed.) In practice, locals still often refer to it as Baypark or the stadium arena. Together with the outdoor Mercury Stadium and open-air grounds, the Mercury Baypark complex provides a one-stop venue for Tauranga’s largest entertainment, sport and conference events .
Events and Programming
Trustpower Arena offers a very diverse event program. Music concerts by Kiwi and international artists are a staple: for example, Tauranga-born pop star Benee included the arena on her nationwide tour . Other acts have ranged from New Zealand’s top bands and orchestras to comedy and family shows. The Lion Foundation Centre can be set up for big concert audiences or divided into smaller theatre-style spaces. Comedy tours (Jimmy Carr and other international comics ) and live productions also play here, taking advantage of the professional stage and sound system.
Sporting events are another mainstay. The arena is home court for local leagues and tournaments in basketball, netball, volleyball, badminton, martial arts and indoor football. Major tournaments like the HoopNation Tauranga Classic (an international basketball tournament) have been fought on its courts . Tauranga’s home team — the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic netball side — even staged national league matches here . The facility also hosts regional championship matches and national finals: for example, the annual Zespri AIMS Games for 11–13 year-olds uses Mercury Baypark’s courts for netball, volleyball, gymnastics and more . National club and school championships in sports like squash, indoor cricket and badminton have also been held.
Besides sport, Mercury Baypark runs many public expos and community events in the arena. Trade and industry expos (home/garden show, seniors’ travel expo, boat shows, etc.) fill both halls when needed. Civic and cultural events — from career expos to wedding fairs — are a regular feature. Community days and children’s events are held frequently; for instance, on its 10th anniversary the arena hosted a free “Family Fun Day” with sports activities, games, a petting zoo and even a giant cake . Seasonal festivals (food shows, car shows, pet expos) and conventions (e.g. tattoo or comic expos) also play the arena. Essentially, any large event in Tauranga that needs an indoor stadium can be booked here.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on event scale. Many community expos and school fairs are free (for example, the annual Tauranga Careers Expo is advertised as free entry ). Local sports games charge modest fees (often $15–30). Big concerts and shows typically range from roughly NZ$60 up to $150+ for premium seats or packages. (Holiday children’s shows and family musicals often have discounts for kids under 12.) The arena management and event promoters announce pricing in advance. Fans should buy tickets early for high-demand concerts, as popular shows (like major rock bands or comedy tours) often sell out many weeks ahead.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Trustpower Arena are sold through official outlets only. Since 2023 the venue has partnered with Ticketek as its primary ticketing provider , so most shows are available there. In practice, the Bay Venues (Tauranga City Council) website and local media will direct you to Ticketek or similar authorised sellers when a show goes on sale. There is no public box office that sells general-event tickets in person – if the event organizer allows door sales, they are typically handled through Ticketek’s door outlet or an on-site booth on the event day. To avoid scalpers, always buy through the advertised official vendor.
Before booking, check the event’s announcement: major concerts and national events go on sale several months in advance, often with a pre-sale for fan clubs or credit-card holders. Smaller community or school events may go on sale just weeks out. Ticket categories include various seating tiers (or general admission standing areas for some concerts). If reserved seating is offered, you’ll see a section, row and seat on your ticket. For general admission tickets, arrive early to grab a good spot on the floor or near the stage.
Pricing is set by each event promoter. Typical ranges are $60–150 for major tours (depending on seat location), while local theatrical or comedy shows might be $50–100, and sporting event finals around $20–50. Children’s and youth events often have lower ticket rates. Many special events also offer charity or group discounts; check the event details. If a show is sold out, ask the official ticket agent about returns or waitlists (Beware of unofficial re-sellers.)
Seating and Layout
The arena is configured with a large open floor and stands along the long sides of each hall. In a concert or court-event layout, the main hall has fixed seating on two sides and additional rows of flip-up bleachers. The complement of fixed and retractable seats is about 4,400 . These stands can be folded away to allow a full flat floor (for trade shows or general admission concerts). The second hall likewise has spectator seating around its courts, though that space is often used for exhibitions or overflow. For very large events, the two halls, foyer and adjacent corridors can be combined (sometimes with draping) to accommodate more attendees.
For the best view, centre sections of the stands are ideal. If sitting, aim for seats facing the stage or courts – side views will still see the action but are at an angle. Lower rows are closest to the stage or court; middle rows give a full-angle view; the very top rows (if opened) may feel distant. Floor standing tickets (for general admission concerts) let fans gather directly in front of the stage – arriving early is key to being close. Since the arena’s acoustics are engineered for clarity , sound is good throughout the house, though the loudest bass frequencies are felt nearest the stage. Large video screens along the sides project the show for those further back.
Behind the main seating there are VIP/service areas in some events. The arena itself has no private luxury boxes (those are in the stadium), but promoters may reserve premium seating sections near the stage. Wheelchair-accessible seating and companion spots are provided by the front-row areas; lifts connect to all levels for easy access . The end of the hall opposite the stage can be used for standing room or extra bleachers. Cherry-pickers are sometimes parked on the floor or stage for broadcast cameras.
Inside the venue, lighting is bright and climate-controlled. State-of-the-art fixtures meet broadcast requirements (about 1100 lux) . For audiences, this means clear visibility of performers. The attention to soundproofing means outside noise (like traffic or the outdoors speedway track) does not interfere . All halls have air conditioning and heating, keeping temperatures comfortable during events. Note there is no open-air seating; events go on rainy or sunny days without issue.
Getting There and Parking
Address: The arena is at Mercury Baypark, 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. If you’re using GPS, “Mercury Baypark” or “Baypark Stadium” will get you there. It sits near the intersection of Sandhurst Drive and Truman Lane off SH2.
By Car: Most visitors drive. Turn off SH2 at Sandhurst Drive (signposted Baypark/Mangakāhia Road), then left onto Mangatawa Link Road, and left again on Truman Lane (follow Baypark signage). Enter through Gate 1 on Truman Lane for arena parking. There’s ample free parking across multiple lots . No parking fees apply, but be aware that car movement can be heavy on event days. Try to arrive 30–60 minutes before the start to allow time to park. Staff will direct you to lots if the nearest ones fill up.
Parking Facilities: Approximately 5,000 cars can be parked on-site (free of charge) . The lots have well-marked entrances and exits, and handicap spots are near the main entrance. Electric vehicles can use any of four pay-to-charge stations in Car Park A (bring your cable and app). Bike racks are provided at the main Arena entrance for free bicycle parking .
Public Transport: There is no direct bus line to Baypark . The closest bus stop is at Bayfair Shopping Centre (about a 2 km walk). From Bayfair, you can catch a local bus heading towards Mount Maunganui and get off at Sandhurst Drive, then walk 10 minutes to the venue. In practice, most visitors take a taxi or drive. Tauranga city buses run content to Bayfair with connections to the Mount area.
Taxi and Rideshare: On event nights, Mt Taxis and other services operate normally. The best drop-off point is near the main entrance on Truman Lane. Be aware that Fresno vehicles are not allowed to load/unload on the State Highway – use Sandhurst Drive or Grace Road for drop-offs and pickups instead . After the event, taxis often queue near the arena entrance. Alternatively, form carpools: Baypark encourages ride-sharing and even provides traffic management during very large events (5,000+). Follow staff directions and consider walking a short distance to meet an Uber or taxi on an adjacent quieter street if queues are long.
Traffic Tips: Baypark sits at a busy highway intersection, so delays are common during big events . Plan extra travel time and possibly approach via minor roads if recommended. The venue posts traffic notices on its website and social media for marquee events. Helpful strategies: carpool, use public transport as far as possible (to Bayfair), or arrive early. After the show, leaving early or a staggered exit may help avoid congestion.
Inside the Venue
Entry Procedures: Tickets (printed or digital on phone) are scanned at entry gates. Attendees typically enter through the main lobby and proceed to the seating hall. Security personnel do bag checks. Large backpacks or duffels may be discouraged or inspected; bring only small bags or personal items. Keep your ticket handy to re-scan if you exit. Photography with smartphones/cameras for personal use is generally allowed (without flash unless permitted). Professional cameras (with removable lenses) or video equipment usually require pre-approval by the event organiser. Umbrellas are allowed at the door (they can be tucked under your seat during the event if venues’ signage requires it).
Food and Drink: Mercury Baypark has an in-house catering provider (Bay Catering) with coffee and snack kiosks in the foyer and concession stands in the seating areas . There is also a licensed bar that sells beer, wine and soft drinks during events. Importantly, outside food and drink (including alcohol) are not allowed inside . You may bring a sealed water bottle or small non-commercial snack, but any unsealed or prepared items will be refused at the door. The on-site vendors and food trucks provide meals and snacks (hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, etc.). No need to pack a picnic – the arena offers typical sports-arena fare.
Amenities: Restrooms are available on each concourse. Gender-neutral and accessible toilets are provided, including facilities for wheelchairs . All areas are air-conditioned and heated. Free public Wi-Fi is offered throughout the venue , so you can stay connected or check live scores/events on your phone. There is a first-aid room on site for medical needs ; event staff also patrol the crowds. No official coat check is offered, but there is ample room by seats to hang jackets. Merchandise stands and kiosks selling team or concert gear often appear near the exits or concourse during big events.
Technology and Production: The arena is built for high-quality production. The main hall’s lighting rig meets broadcast standards , and two large video screens flank the stage so even distant seats see close-ups. Sound engineers praise the acoustics – crowd noise and music are clear but well-contained. If you’re sitting in the stands, you’ll still hear music and announcements clearly. The court floors are electronic scoreboards, so sports spectators always have the score and game clock in view. Overall the experience is like a modern stadium – bright, comfortable, and professionally outfitted.
Atmosphere: Events at Baypark Arena feel lively and well-attended. Before shows, the spacious foyer with art installations offers a place to mingle. During breaks you can move freely to the concourse bars and cafes. For evening events, expect the lights to be dimmed and the main hall aglow with stage lights. The crowd is usually energetic. The staff and ushers are friendly and helpful if you need directions or have questions about facilities. If you get thirsty after the show, there are often late-night food trucks or the café may stay open for a short time.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and Bars: If you want a meal before or after an event, options are plentiful. Mount Maunganui’s dining district (The Strand) with cafes, seafood restaurants and pubs is only a 10-minute drive west. Closer by (2–3 km away) is Bayfair Shopping Centre, which has a food court, fast food, and sit-down restaurants. Immediately adjacent to Baypark is a small complex with a liquor store and eateries. On busy nights, local bars (such as Summit Beer House or nearby sports pubs) are popular gathering spots. Inside the venue, the Baypark Café offers sandwiches and snacks , and event marketplaces often have local food trucks outside when weather permits.
Hotels and Accommodation: For out-of-town guests and performers, there are many lodging choices near Baypark. The closest hotel is Grand Mercure (formerly Commodore) right at the corner of Sandhurst Drive (a luxury 4-star). A Quest apartment hotel is also walking distance. A short drive to nearby Mount Maunganui, Tauranga CBD or Papamoa offers further hotels – from beachfront resorts (Novotel, DeBretts) to motels and B&Bs. Booking ahead is wise during big event weekends (AIMS Games, Christmas concerts, etc.). If you plan to stay overnight after a late show, taxis and Uber service the area late into the evening.
When to Arrive: As a rule, arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your event starts. This gives you time to park, walk in, and find your seats without rushing. It also lets you grab snacks or visit the restroom beforehand. If the event begins in the afternoon or early evening, lunchtime or early dinner at a nearby restaurant can be a nice walk-away – The Strand has many options for a meal. For events that start late at night, plan on how you’ll get home; buses run less frequently after 11pm, so have a rideshare or taxi app ready, or know which friends to carpool with.
Late-Night Transportation: Taxi ranks often form near the main arena entrance after events. If no taxis are visible, use a rideshare and ask to be dropped a block away (Exeter Street or Baypark Boulevard are convenient) rather than on the highway. Alternatively, if you stay around Mount Maunganui, night buses run along The Strand and Maunganui Road until about midnight. Many attendees arrange for a designated driver if they plan to drink, or simply wait a few minutes after the event to let traffic clear before leaving.
What Makes This Venue Special
There are a few things that make Trustpower Arena (Mercury Baypark Arena) stand out. Architecturally, it has a clear-span roof – meaning the court areas are completely open inside with no pillars to block views . This creates a bright, airy feel uncommon in older halls. The foyer even features a civic art collection, giving it a distinctive cultural touch. The timber-sprung courts, professional-grade AV and lighting systems, and comfortable seating give it a world-class feel on par with venues in Auckland or Wellington.
Culturally, the arena has delivered many “first-time” experiences to Tauranga. For example, its inaugural event in 2011 was the New Zealand wrestling championships , and since then it’s hosted events previously beyond the city’s reach – international touring musicals, major sports finals and national expos. Local sports teams and schools now have a top-tier indoor home. Community groups and artists love it because it can transform from a basketball court one day into a concert hall the next, all under one roof: this flexibility is relatively unique in a city of this size. Tauranga fans also appreciate not having to travel to Christchurch or Auckland for big shows – the arena ensures that the Bay of Plenty can enjoy top-level entertainment at home .
Finally, it’s special because it’s a community hub. Over a decade, families have built traditions around attending Christmas shows, AIMS Games events and local basketball finals here. The venue’s managers emphasize that it was designed for community use . People in Tauranga often say they’re proud the city has such a modern, multipurpose venue; it represents the region’s growth. Local legend and media outlets frequently cite the arena as a “game changer” for bringing larger-scale events and money into town . In short, Mercury Baypark Arena is not just a building – it’s a symbol of Tauranga’s rising profile and a beloved meeting place for sports, culture and entertainment.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The arena is fully wheelchair-accessible . Ramps and elevators reach all levels, and there are reserved wheelchair spaces. Accessible restrooms are available on each level. Even if you have mobility needs, the venue staff are accustomed to assisting – just notify the event organizers or box office of any special requirements when booking tickets.
What to Bring: For most events, comfortable casual attire is fine. If you’re going to a sports match or concert, consider wearing layers – the hall may be cool when empty but warm when packed. Earplugs can be wise at loud rock or dance concerts. Keep your phone charged (there are charging points at customer service), and consider bringing a small portable charger. You can bring a small bag or purse, but travel light – large backpacks or bulky items are discouraged. Cameras: smartphone snaps for personal use are okay, but don’t plan detailed photography unless the event allows it. Also, bring your photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol or enter age-restricted shows.
Venue Policies: In addition to food/drink rules (see above), note that smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas (please step outside). If an event is a private function (like a corporate gala), a dress code might apply – check the event page or invite for details. Also note that during setup and takedown, parts of the venue may be closed. Respect any cones or barriers. Lost and found items generally go to the Mercury Baypark reception office – if you lose something, call them promptly.
Common Mistakes: The biggest mistake is underestimating travel time. Always budget extra time for parking and queues. Another is forgetting that the space is multi-level: some shows have entrance lobbies upstairs, so follow signs (e.g. “Arena Floor” versus “Arena Mezzanine”). Check your ticket to see if it specifies Arena or Stadium lounge. Lastly, don’t assume children are barred from events – most are family-friendly, but always verify age guidelines in advance (for example, comedic shows sometimes require 16+).
Box Office and Contact: There is no public box office window open daily just for ticket sales. Ticket support is usually done through the event promoters or Ticketek. If you need to contact the venue, the Bay Venues support phone (07-577-8560) is staffed on weekdays and during some events. They can help with general info (but won’t sell tickets at that number). For specific event details (start time, seating chart, cancellations), always refer to the producer’s announcements or e-tickets.
Cultural Notes: As with all Tauranga venues, the staff and crowds are friendly and informal. It’s common to greet people and help each other with directions. Māori and Pacific cultural performances often take place at Baypark, reflecting the Bay of Plenty’s local cultures, so you may experience waiata (songs), haka or speeches in both English and Māori. The venue is still subjunct to local holiday closures for holiday events (Christmas Light Spectacular in December, for example). Also, Baypark is community-run by Tauranga City Council, so dam. Overall, have fun – it’s one of New Zealand’s few modern arenas in a small city setting, and visitors usually come away impressed with how accessible and up-to-date it feels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Trustpower Arena?
The main indoor hall of Trustpower Arena seats about 4,400 people . For concerts it can fit up to roughly 6,000 attendees when using standing floor space . Bayvenues even lists an overall capacity of 8,000 for the combined Mercury Baypark Arena complex . In practice, most seated events stay around 4–5,000 tickets, and larger arenas events include floor room up to 6,000.
Is parking available at the arena and is it free?
Yes – Mercury Baypark offers about 5,000 free parking spaces onsite . Parking is free of charge (no parking fees) and spread over several lots adjacent to the arena. During big events, parking can fill up, so arriving early or carpooling is advised. (Note: EV charging stations are available in Carpark A , and bike racks are at the main entrance .)
What public transport serves Trustpower (Baypark) Arena?
There is no direct bus stop at the arena . The closest bus routes serve Bayfair Shopping Centre (about a 15–20 min walk or short taxi ride from the arena) . From Bayfair, you can catch Tauranga’s Baybus routes towards Mount Maunganui. Many people find it easier to drive or take a taxi/rideshare to the arena. For big events, Bay venues sometimes run special shuttles or partners with charter buses to ease travel.
Where can I buy tickets to events?
Tickets are sold through official outlets only. Mercury Baypark’s ticketing partner is Ticketek , so most concerts and shows are on sale there. Check the event’s announcements or Bay Venues website for links. There is no daily walk-up box office selling tickets (except possibly on the event day if the promoter arranges door sales). It’s safest to buy tickets online through the specified official vendor to ensure validity.
Are tickets sold at the door on the event day?
It depends on the event. Some smaller shows and community events may sell remaining tickets at the door if they are not sold out. For large concerts and high-profile sporting matches, it is uncommon to have walk-up sales (they typically sell out in advance). Always check the event’s page or contact the promoter: if door sales are offered, it will be specified.
Are seats reserved or general admission?
Most events have reserved seating. Your ticket will list a section and row (or a general area if it’s GA). For concerts, the flat floor is sometimes sold as General Admission standing (meaning first come, first serve near the stage), while the bleacher areas are assigned seats. Sport events and expos are usually fully reserved. When in doubt, check whether your ticket says “GA Floor” (standing) or shows seat numbers.
Can I bring food and drinks into the arena?
No outside food or commercial beverages are allowed inside . Bay Catering has exclusive rights to sell all refreshments and snacks in the venue, so you must buy drinks and meals on site. You may bring a small sealed water bottle or a personal snack (granola bar, etc.) for personal consumption, but any restaurant food or alcohol brought in will be confiscated. The on-site café and vendors provide typical event food (coffee, hotdogs, sandwiches, burgers, soft drinks, etc.).
Is the arena accessible for wheelchairs and mobility needs?
Yes. The arena is fully accessible . There are ramps and lifts to all floors, and priority wheelchair spaces in the seating (with companion seating next to them). Accessible restrooms are provided as well . If you need assistance, the venue staff are accommodating. Just request accessible seating when you book your tickets or upon arrival, and they will help you find the appropriate seating.
What items are not allowed inside?
Standard arena rules apply: No weapons of any kind, no fireworks, no outside alcohol, and no illegal substances. Additionally, large bags or backpacks may be searched or refused entry – bring only small personal bags. Professional camera equipment (like DSLRs with large lenses) generally isn’t allowed unless the event organiser approved it, but smartphone photography for personal use is usually fine (without flash). Also, if you have headphones or earplugs, feel free to use them for loud events.
Where are the best seats in the house?
For concerts or shows, front and centre are king – the floor area right in front of the stage or the first few rows of stands directly facing it. These give the closest view and best sound. Middle stand seats also offer a very good, balanced view. Side seats have a slightly angled perspective, and very far back rows will hear perfectly but may be farther from the action (though big video screens help). For sports, courtside or lower-stand seats are best, as long as they are near the centre of the court.
Is there a box office on-site?
During most events there is no separate public box-office window. Tickets must be pre-purchased through the official ticket seller (Ticketek or equivalent). Sometimes a ticket collection booth may open on the day for pre-bought tickets, but usually the venue just scans your ticket at the entrance. If you have last-minute questions, the Bayvenues customer service (in the administration area) may assist, but they do not sell tickets on the spot.
Can I bring my backpack or large bag?
Large backpacks or roller bags are discouraged. Security staff may ask you to check any oversized bag or return it to your car. A small purse or daypack is usually fine. If you must bring a large bag (for kids or gear), be prepared for a possible search. Representatives often advise attendees to “travel light.”
What is the smoking policy?
Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside the arena. You can smoke only in designated outdoor areas just outside the main entrances. If you do step outside for a cigarette, be sure to allow time to queue up again at the door when you return, as re-entry may involve a ticket re-scan.
Are there places to charge my phone or get Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Mercury Baypark . Just connect to the guest network and accept the terms. For charging, there are power outlets in some seating areas, but usually only for staff. It’s best to bring a portable charger. Some customer service or media desks may allow charging if needed.
Are food/drinks cheaper if I bring them in?
No. The venue runs on its concession and catering income, so prices inside will be similar to other event venues. You cannot bring outside restaurant food or alcohol in to save money . Packets of snacks or water bottles you provide for your personal use are fine, but any commercial food or beverage must be purchased inside. On the plus side, all proceeds go to the venue’s upkeep!
What is Mercury Baypark Arena? Is it the same as Trustpower Arena?
Yes, it is the same venue. Trustpower Arena was the name from 2011 until 2023, when Mercury Energy became the new sponsor. It’s now officially called Mercury Baypark Arena (part of Mercury Baypark) . Locals still often call it Trustpower Arena out of habit, but it refers to the same arena space at Baypark.
Is the arena fully indoors (i.e. will weather matter)?
Yes, Mercury Baypark Arena is a fully enclosed indoor venue. Weather does not affect events – rain or shine, indoor shows go on as scheduled. Outside, the stadium (with grass fields) is used for outdoor events, but the arena halls are protected from wind and rain at all times. You may want an umbrella or jacket for the short walk from the car, but once inside you’ll stay dry and climate-controlled.
