Auckland Council backs staged redevelopment of Eden Park

Auckland Council this afternoon endorsed a staged redevelopment of the Eden Park stadium over a proposal for a new 55,000-seat stadium in the Quay Park area of Auckland. Eden Park Trust is delighted to have Auckland Council’s support for upgrading Eden Park, dubbed Eden Park 2.1

Eden Park Chief Executive, Nick Sautner, said the outcome reflects strong support for a financially responsible and environmentally sustainable solution that delivers a future-focused solution for both Auckland and New Zealand.

Saunter noted “Eden Park 2.1 is a high-value, high-benefit opportunity for Auckland and New Zealand. It makes the most of existing infrastructure, leverages the City Rail Link which opens in 2026, and delivers social, cultural, and economic benefits quickly and at scale.”

The New Zealand Herald reported that councillors voted 17-2 in favour of the Eden Park redevelopment, which would be carried out in stages.

While a funding plan for the redevelopment of Eden Park has not yet been agreed, it is reported that Eden Park could ask for up to US $57 million of public money to support the project.

First revealed by the Eden Park Trust in April 2023 under the Eden Park 2.0 banner, the proposed upgrade of Auckland’s Eden Park stadium has a projected cost of over US$287 million and will include a retractable roof and a new North Stand.

A number of proposals were put forward to deliver a new stadium in Auckland, and in May last year Auckland Council selected the Eden Park 2.1 and Te Tōangaroa/Quay Park plans to move forward in the process.

The two proposals were given six months to complete feasibility studies at their own expense, and the Eden Park proposal had been considered the favourite to be selected by the council.

The Eden Park project covers initiatives relating to modernisation, sustainability, connectivity and sustainability, while the Quay Park plans included a 55,000-seat stadium as part of a wider 15-hectare precinct that would have also featured hotels, bars, restaurants, retail and office space, residential apartments and green spaces.

Eden Park Trust Board Chair, Kereyn Smith noted “Today’s decision is a pivotal step toward securing the long-term future of Eden Park as New Zealand’s national stadium. The staged approach gives us the certainty to plan, the flexibility to deliver, and the ability to respond to the needs of Aucklanders and New Zealanders alike.

“Eden Park 2.1 is a smart, staged investment that delivers high-impact returns for both Auckland and the nation. It’s practical, future-focused, and leverages existing infrastructure to achieve lasting outcomes. We look forward to working with both Auckland Council and central government to make this opportunity a reality.”

Sautner enthused “we’re delighted that Auckland Council has chosen to support Eden Park 2.1 which is a practical, buildable, and future-ready approach to delivering Auckland’s main stadium. Recognising the Governing Body’s vital role in shaping the next phase, we are committed to working collaboratively to deliver the best outcomes for Auckland and the country.

“Since 2011, Eden Park has contributed more than $1 billion in GDP to the regional economy. Named International Venue of the Year in 2023, Eden Park is a hybrid, multi-purpose stadium that continues to be both a strategic asset for the nation and a community cornerstone for Auckland.

“Globally, there is a growing focus on repurposing and upgrading existing infrastructure. Eden Park is already a highly valuable asset – and with the staged upgrade, we will ensure it remains a highly utilised venue that delivers world-class experiences and continues to create unforgettable moments for future generations.”

Last weekend, Eden Park hosted three different sporting codes including international cricket over four days – a reminder of the venue’s ability to bring New Zealanders together through sport and culture.