The final touches are being added to Christchurch’s new $683 million stadium before its scheduled opening in April. Seat numbers, couches, and goal posts are being put in place to complete the state-of-the-art 25,000-seat, fixed-roof stadium.
In a video released by the Christchurch City Council, project director Kent Summerfield showcased the behind-the-scenes work being done on the audio-visual, lighting, and sound system control room within the stadium. Summerfield highlighted the world-class sound quality designed for concerts and the electric atmosphere created for sporting events.
The stadium, known as One NZ Stadium at Te Kaha, features 16 speaker arrays with 8-10 speakers each, ribbon boards around the stands, and two large screens. Lighting features include customizable sports lights and multi-colored lights around the exterior for lighting displays.
The corporate suites are furnished with couches, bar leaners, tables, and chairs, while the 25,000 permanent seats in the stands are being finalized with seat numbers. Despite the scale of the project, Summerfield confirmed that the stadium is on budget and on track for its April opening.
Summerfield expressed gratitude to the lead contractor, BESIX Watpac, as well as the consultants and subcontractors who have contributed to the project. Over 3700 individuals have worked on the stadium, accumulating more than 2.3 million work hours in total.
The stadium is set to be handed over to the operator, Venues Ōtautahi, in time for the Super Rugby Super Round scheduled for April 24-26. This event will bring together Super Rugby teams from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and the Pacific for the inaugural games at One NZ Stadium.
Super Rugby Super Round Match Schedule
From April 24-26, ten teams will compete in five matches over one weekend at One NZ Stadium, promising an exciting display of rugby under the stadium’s roof.
