On Sunday, 9 March, Wellington’s beloved Sky Stadium is throwing open its doors for a spectacular 25th Birthday Bash, and you’re all invited! From 11:00am to 3:00pm, this FREE event promises a day filled with fun, entertainment, and a touch of nostalgia for all Wellingtonians. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a family looking for a day out, or just someone who loves community gatherings, here’s your comprehensive guide to make the most of this special occasion.
As you step through the entry turnstiles, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant atmosphere of the Inner Plaza and concourse. The air will be alive with the sounds of live music, setting a festive tone for the day. A local band will be performing, ensuring there’s a lively backdrop to your visit. For the little ones, there will be mini cars to drive around, providing endless giggles and photo opportunities. Additionally, emergency services will showcase their vehicles and equipment, giving you a chance to see up close the heroes who keep us safe during events.
The concourse from Aisles 12 to 20 will be a hub of activity, perfect for families. Here, you can indulge in face painting, where your kids (or you!) can transform into their favourite characters or creatures. Bouncy castles will be set up, offering a safe space for children to burn off some energy. Various activations by well-known brands like McDonald’s, Chemist Warehouse, and community services like New Zealand Police, MediaWorks, and Wellington Free Ambulance will add to the day’s excitement, providing interactive experiences for all ages.
Sports fans, this is your chance to step onto the hallowed turf of Sky Stadium. Access to the field is via Aisles 13 to 20, where you can join in on drills hosted by Cricket Wellington, Capital Football, and Wellington Rugby. Whether you’re keen to bowl a cricket ball, kick a football, or pass a rugby ball, there’s something for every sports lover. These activities not only offer a fun way to engage with sports but also give you a taste of what it’s like to be a professional athlete in this iconic venue.
After you’ve had your fill of sports, don’t miss the unique opportunity to walk through the players’ tunnel. This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour will lead you into the changing rooms, which will be set up just as they would be on game day. Imagine the excitement of following in the footsteps of legends like the All Blacks or the Wellington Phoenix, experiencing the pre-game atmosphere where strategies are planned and team spirits are rallied.
For those looking to capture memories, a photobooth will be set up, and trophies from New Zealand Rugby will be on display, offering the perfect backdrop for your photos. Whether you’re a rugby aficionado or just love a good photo op, this is your chance to snap a picture with a piece of sporting history.
When hunger strikes, head over to Aisle 12 on the concourse where you can purchase coffee, food, and beverages. Two food trucks and a coffee cart will be stationed on the artificial pitch next to the field, providing a variety of options to refuel. Additionally, Fritz Wieners will be serving up their famous sausages in the Inner Plaza, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
A reminder that this event is completely FREE, including parking, making it accessible for everyone in the Wellington community to join in the celebration. For those with mobility needs, golf carts will be available to transport you from the car park to the field and back to the concourse, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities without hassle.
Bathroom facilities are well thought out with female bathrooms available at Aisles 15 and 18, and male and mobility-accessible bathrooms at Aisles 16 and 20, catering to all attendees’ needs.
Sky Stadium, formerly known as WestpacTrust Stadium and Wellington Regional Stadium, has been a cornerstone of Wellington’s sports and entertainment scene since its opening in 1999. Over the years, it has hosted numerous memorable events. Here are some of the famous matches that have taken place within its walls:
The stadium saw its first rugby test match in 2000 when the All Blacks faced off against Scotland, winning 69-26 in front of a packed crowd. This match set the tone for many international rugby encounters that followed, including the historic 2011 Rugby World Cup where Sky Stadium hosted several matches, including quarter-finals. The atmosphere during these games was electric, with fans from around the globe filling the stands, creating a vibrant tapestry of support.
In football, Sky Stadium has been the home ground for the Wellington Phoenix since their inception in the A-League in 2007. One of the most memorable matches was in 2010 when the Phoenix defeated Sydney FC 1-0 in extra time to win the A-League Preliminary Final, a victory that sent them to the Grand Final. The roar of the crowd that day is still remembered as one of the loudest in the stadium’s history.
Cricket has also had its moments at Sky Stadium. The ground hosted its first international cricket match in 2000, a One Day International between New Zealand and the West Indies. Over the years, it has seen many thrilling encounters, including a memorable test match in 2014 where Brendon McCullum scored a triple century against India, setting a record for the fastest Test triple hundred at the time.
Beyond sports, Sky Stadium has been the venue for concerts by global superstars like AC/DC, Ed Sheeran, and Eminem, drawing fans from all over New Zealand. These events have not only showcased the stadium’s versatility but also its ability to bring people together in celebration of music and culture.
The 25th Birthday Bash is not just a celebration of the stadium’s history but also a look forward to its future. With ongoing developments in sports technology and fan engagement, Sky Stadium continues to evolve, ensuring it remains at the heart of Wellington’s community life. According to a recent survey by WellingtonNZ, 92% of Wellington residents feel proud of Sky Stadium as a symbol of their city’s sporting heritage, highlighting its significance beyond just a venue for events.
As we celebrate this milestone, let’s remember the countless memories made here, from nail-biting finishes in sports to unforgettable nights under the stars with music. This event is a testament to the community spirit of Wellington, where everyone is welcome to share in the joy of our city’s achievements. So, mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and let’s make this birthday bash one for the history books at Sky Stadium.
Note: This article was crafted to guide you through Sky Stadium’s 25th Birthday Bash, ensuring you have all the information needed for a fantastic day out. For more local events and stories, stay tuned to One Network Wellington Live.
