August 6, 2026
From a blockbuster concert and sold-out sporting clashes to community events that brought thousands of people together, the first half of this year has been packed with unforgettable moments. Looking back on it all, we can't help but think... ooohh yeah!
It all kicked off when global superstar Ed Sheeran brought his brand-new Loop Tour to Welly. More than 30,000 fans packed the stadium for an unforgettable night of lasers, fireworks and hit after hit. It was the perfect way to launch what would become an incredible run of events.
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Then came a whirlwind of sport.
The Wellington Phoenix and Hurricanes seasons were in full swing before rugby league fans took over the capital for the One NZ Warriors' NRL ANZAC Round clash against the Dolphins. The stadium became a sea of blue, red and green, with thousands of "Up the Wahs!" chants echoing around the stands. When the Warriors sealed the win, the atmosphere somehow got even louder.
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Meanwhile, the Hurricanes were putting together something special.
What followed was a dream finish to the Super Rugby Pacific season, with home quarter-final, semi-final and Grand Final fixtures lighting up Hnry Stadium. The Grand Final sold out in just 15 minutes, with Wellington once again ‘filling the tin’. The reward? Watching the Hurricanes lift the trophy on home soil for the first time in a decade. On a classic Wellington winter night, tens of thousands of fans witnessed a moment that has already earned its place in Hnry Stadium history.
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And before we had a chance to catch our breath, the All Blacks were back.
Another sold-out crowd, another unforgettable atmosphere and another special night in the capital as black jerseys filled the stands and fans celebrated another Test victory against Italy. Watching Hnry Stadium come alive like that is a reminder of why live sport continues to bring people together like nothing else.
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Of course, it hasn't all been about elite sport.
So far this year we've also welcomed thousands of people through our gates for community events including Armageddon, The Better Home & Living Show, Eid celebrations, the Wellington Marathon and the incredible Relay For Life. Seeing the stadium transformed for so many different occasions is one of the things we love most. It truly is a venue for everyone.
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And while all of this has been happening out front, there's been plenty going on behind the scenes too.
Following Ed Sheeran's concert, half the playing surface underwent a major turf renovation to prepare for another packed sporting calendar. We also marked the beginning of an exciting new era as Sky Stadium officially became Hnry Stadium, with new signage rolling out across the venue and a fresh identity taking shape.
It's hard to believe we're only in August.
If the first seven months are anything to go by, there's still plenty to look forward to. We've got more exciting events on the horizon, from The Food Show and Beervana to the return of NPC rugby and two massive BLACKCAPS internationals. And we're not done yet; there are still a few big announcements waiting in the wings.
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