Mount Smart Stadium (Auckland)

Mount Smart Stadium, or Waiata Takutai in Māori, is one of Auckland’s most iconic and cherished venues. While its primary association is with the New Zealand Warriors rugby league team, the stadium is a versatile arena that has hosted some of the world’s biggest music acts and high-energy sporting events. Situated in Penrose, it is a hub for both passionate sports fans and concertgoers, offering a vibrant atmosphere that is distinctly Auckland.

History and Design

Originally a volcanic cone, Mount Smart was used as a Māori pā (fortified settlement). In more modern times, it was quarried and then transformed into a sports ground, with the stadium officially opening in 1967. The venue has undergone several developments over the decades to enhance its capacity and facilities. Unlike the grand, historic architecture of many European stadiums, Mount Smart’s design is more pragmatic, focusing on creating an intimate and immersive experience for spectators. The horseshoe-shaped stands put fans close to the action, creating a powerful, electric atmosphere, particularly during Warriors games. The venue also features a large, open field that is perfect for large-scale concerts.

Major Events Hosted

Mount Smart Stadium has a rich history of hosting blockbuster concerts and major sporting fixtures.

New Zealand Warriors Home Games: The stadium is the spiritual home of NRL team the New Zealand Warriors, a team that commands a huge following and fills the stadium with a unique brand of energy.
Rugby League World Cup: The venue hosted matches during the 1989–1992 and 2017 Rugby League World Cups.
1990 Commonwealth Games: The stadium hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the athletics events, for the 1990 Commonwealth Games.
Music Concerts: The stadium has become the go-to venue for some of the biggest names in music. It has hosted sold-out shows for global superstars like Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Guns N’ Roses. The stadium’s acoustic design and open space make it a favorite for touring artists.
A-League Football: The venue is also the home of the new A-League football team, Auckland FC.
Super Rugby Matches: The stadium hosted Super Rugby matches for the Moana Pasifika team between 2021 and 2022.

Key Information

Official Name: Go Media Stadium (for sponsorship reasons)
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Opened: 1967
Capacity: 30,000 (for sports), up to 40,000 (for concerts)
Primary Tenants: New Zealand Warriors (NRL), Auckland FC (A-League)
Address: 121 O’Rorke Road, Penrose, Auckland, New Zealand

Contents

Getting to Mount Smart Stadium

Mount Smart Stadium is located in a suburban area, but it’s well-connected by public transport, which is highly recommended for major events due to limited parking.

By Air

Auckland Airport (AKL) is the main international gateway to Auckland. From the airport, you can use the SkyBus service, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service to get to the stadium or your accommodation.

By Public Transport

Train: The Southern Line and Eastern Line are the best options. The closest station is Penrose Station, which is a 10-15 minute walk from the stadium. Special event services often run on these lines to handle large crowds.
Bus: Several bus routes serve the Penrose area. You can check the Auckland Transport (AT) website for the best routes from your location.

By Car & Parking

Driving is generally not recommended on event days due to significant traffic and limited on-site parking. If you do drive, pre-booking a parking spot or using designated parking areas away from the stadium is the best option.

Tickets & Tours at Mount Smart Stadium

Tickets to New Zealand Warriors Matches: You can buy tickets for New Zealand Warriors home games through the official Ticketmaster website.
Tickets to Auckland FC Matches: Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Tickets to Other Events: For concerts and other major sporting events, tickets are sold via standard ticketing agencies like Ticketmaster or Moshtix.
Stadium Tours: Mount Smart Stadium does not have regular, scheduled stadium tours like larger, international venues. However, you can sometimes find behind-the-scenes opportunities or fan events on event days.

Where to Stay Near Mount Smart Stadium

While Mount Smart is not in the city center, there are several accommodation options nearby, and it is easily accessible from all over Auckland.

Penrose/Ellerslie: These suburbs offer a variety of hotels and motels that are within a short distance of the stadium.
Newmarket: This area is a bit further away but has excellent public transport links to the stadium and is a major retail and dining hub.
Auckland CBD: Staying in the city center gives you access to a huge range of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. From there, you can easily use public transport to get to the stadium.

Booking Tips:

Book in Advance: Accommodation can be limited and more expensive during major concerts or sporting events, so book well in advance.
Check Transport Links: Make sure your accommodation is conveniently located for public transport to and from the stadium.
Use Reputable Booking Sites: Use well-known and reputable booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options. Always verify reviews and ratings before booking.

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Mount Smart Stadium

Last Updated on September 2, 2025 by Sports Tourist