December 24, 2025
On Saturday 21 December, we opened the Sky Stadium doors for one of the most special events on our 2025 calendar. Christmas at the Stadium brought together families from across Wellington, connected through a network of local charities, for an afternoon of festive celebration and community. Followed by watching the Wellington Phoenix take a win!
A Day of Christmas Magic
Whānau from across the region entered the concourse and were greeted by games and activities for the kids, seating for everyone, a buffet that was already smelling incredible, and a 7-foot lit up Christmas tree. After having some time playing (in Te Whare Tākaro soft play or the bounce house from Kapiti Castles), the kids picked up a Christmas themed balloon, and got an awesome 360 video with the family before settling down for lunch.
A traditional festive lunch was served, thanks to Gilmour’s and O’Brien Group, complete with ham, turkey, and all the trimmings. For many families, it was a chance to sit down together, share a meal, and enjoy the kind of Christmas experience that can sometimes feel a little bit out of reach.
Santa made his way through the cheering kids and onto the stage, where he then delighted in handing out presents to every child thanks to the Kindness Collective, whilst parents weren’t forgotten – each receiving a gift donated by Iko Iko. Between the games, the food, the gifts, and the atmosphere, there was something for everyone.
Spot prizes added an extra layer of excitement throughout the afternoon. Families walked away with prizes including a signed All Blacks ball, Pulse Netball merch, Oppo phones, and passes to Ed Sheeran's upcoming Welington show.
More Than an Event
After lunch, families made their way into the stands with complementary tickets to watch the Wellington Phoenix take to the pitch. For some, it was their first time at a live football match. For others, it was an opportunity to further soak up the energy of Sky Stadium on game day (and a win nonetheless!).
Lucia from ChangeMakers Resettlement Forum said “Thank you once more for all the incredible work you and the team are doing. The Christmas event was truly amazing, it really brought back the magic of the holiday season. It meant so much to the families and community.”
Events like this reflect our place in Wellington. Whilst we're proud to host international sport and world-class entertainment, we're equally proud to provide a space where the community can come together, especially for those who might not otherwise have the chance.
A Shared Effort
Christmas at the Stadium wouldn't have been possible without our partnership with Go Media, the support of local charities, generous donors, and the many people who contributed their time and resources to make it happen. From the spot prizes to the logistics, it was a collective effort that made the day what it was.
Thanks to:
Go Media
Gilmour’s
AV Media
Kindness Collective
O’Brien Group
Metlink
Wellington Phoenix
Fill Good
Pulse Netball
New Zealand Rugby
Good Neighbours Café
Iko Iko
Red Badge
Eccles
Resene
Wellington Cricket
New Zealand Cricket
Hurricanes
ISS
Oppo
Kapiti Castles
Hop-On 360 Photo Booth
