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New Zealand v Italy – Nations Championship 2026

July 11 @ 5:10 pm

Sky Stadium

The Nations Championship arrives in Wellington as the All Blacks face an ascending Italy side. Hosted at the iconic Sky Stadium, this fixture brings international rugby to the heart of New Zealand’s capital. Known for its circular design and harbor-side location, “The Cake Tin” provides a unique atmosphere where the passionate local crowd can witness the All Blacks’ clinical precision against the flair and passion of the Azzurri.

This guide provides essential information for fans planning to attend this Test match on July 11, 2026, including venue details, ticketing, and travel/accommodation tips for Wellington, New Zealand.

📅 When is the New Zealand v Italy match in the Nations Championship 2026?

This Nations Championship fixture is scheduled for:

  • Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
  • Kick-off: 17:10 NZST

📍 Where is the New Zealand v Italy match in the Nations Championship 2026?

The match will be held at Wellington’s premier multi-purpose stadium:

🏟️ About Sky Stadium

Sky Stadium is famous for its distinct silver exterior and circular seating bowl, earning it the nickname “The Cake Tin.” With a capacity of 34,500, the stadium is situated on the edge of the Wellington Harbour. While it is an open-air stadium, its design offers some protection from the capital’s famous winds, and the concourse provides a 360-degree view of the city and sea.

Sky Stadium (Wellington)

🎟️ How do I get tickets to the New Zealand v Italy match in the Nations Championship 2026?

Italy’s growing reputation in world rugby makes this a highly anticipated fixture for the Wellington sporting calendar.

  • Official Vendor: Tickets for this fixture are sold via Ticketek New Zealand.
  • Priority Access: Team All Blacks members receive priority booking windows. Sign up at allblacks.com.
  • Hospitality: The “Bowl Lounge” and “Corporate Boxes” offer premium indoor viewing and hospitality, perfect for a mid-winter Test night.
  • Official Travel Packages: Fans traveling from Italy or domestically can secure packages through All Blacks Tours.

✈️ How do I travel to Sky Stadium?

Sky Stadium is one of the most accessible venues in the country, located within easy walking distance of the central city and main transport hub.

  • By Air: Wellington International Airport (WLG) is the gateway. The Airport Express (AX) bus runs frequently between the airport and the Wellington Railway Station (adjacent to the stadium).
  • To the Stadium (Match Day):
    • Walking (Highly Recommended): The stadium is connected to the Wellington Railway Station via a dedicated elevated walkway. It is a 10–15 minute walk from the CBD’s main hospitality precinct.
    • Train: Metlink trains run frequently from the Hutt Valley, Kapiti Coast, and Johnsonville directly to the Wellington Railway Station.
    • Bus: Numerous local bus routes converge at the station interchange.
    • Ride-Share: Use the designated drop-off zone at the bottom of the stadium ramp on Thorndon Quay.

🏨 Where to Stay in Wellington?

  • Wellington CBD: Stay near Lambton Quay or The Terrace for the best shopping and quick access to the stadium walkway. Options include InterContinental Wellington or Novotel Wellington.
  • Te Aro / Courtenay Place: The heart of the city’s nightlife and dining. Perfect for post-match celebrations. Stays like Museum Art Hotel (QT) or Naumi Studio are popular.
  • Thorndon: A quieter, historic suburb located right next to the stadium. Boutique options like The Thistle Inn (one of NZ’s oldest pubs) are nearby.
  • Oriental Bay: For a premium stay with stunning harbor views, within a 25-minute scenic walk to the venue.
TripAdvisor

💡 Know Before You Go

  • Windy Wellington: Sky Stadium is on the waterfront. Even on a clear night, the wind can be biting. Dress in warm layers and bring a wind-proof jacket!
  • The Walkway: The elevated walkway from the station to the stadium is an experience in itself, often filled with activations and the “sea of black” on match nights.
  • Waterfront Dining: Head to the waterfront or Queens Wharf for a pre-match meal; it’s a scenic stroll to the stadium from there.
  • Cashless Venue: Sky Stadium is a cashless venue for all food, beverage, and merchandise outlets.

🔗 Helpful Links for Your Trip

Join the roar in the capital as the All Blacks take on Italy! 🇳🇿🇮🇹

Sky Stadium

Wellington, New Zealand

Last Updated on February 5, 2026 by Sports Tourist

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