An open expression of interest (EOI) process will launch on Monday 20 January, inviting submissions from parties interested in taking over operational functions at North Harbour Stadium and Domain Precinct (NHS).
The EOI calls for parties or organisations who are interested in taking over some or all of the operational management of the stadium and precinct from mid-2025, which is currently operated by its owner, Auckland Council-controlled organisation Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU). The intent of the EOI is to determine, through undertaking an open procurement process, whether there is an operator or operators, able to drive positive outcomes for NHS, its community and its users.
Last year, Auckland’s mayor and councillors asked the chair and deputy chairpersons of the Upper Harbour and Hibiscus and Bays local boards to drive a locally-led process, which – in collaboration with TAU – is working to provide clarity on the future vision and role of North Harbour Stadium and Domain Precinct. The EOI is the first stage of this work.
Anna Atkinson, Chairperson of the Upper Harbour Local Board says, “This is an exciting step for the stadium’s future. Through this process, a Working Group made up of local and expert stakeholders has met regularly to consider what impact any future operators could have. Whether it’s through increased use of the stadium or engagement with the local community, we are hopeful that this EOI is the start of a process of positive change at North Harbour Stadium.”
Alexis Poppelbaum, Chairperson of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board says, “We want North Harbour Stadium to thrive for the North Shore and the whole of Auckland. Successful parties will need to demonstrate how they plan to improve the financial performance of the venue, while respecting and building the connection with the local community and the existing stadium users. We have worked closely with the community on the North Shore and with TAU to arrive at this step and now look forward to welcoming submissions from interested parties over the next six weeks.”
Nick Hill, Chief Executive of TAU says, “We have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with the local board members who have driven this process to date, where we have provided valuable insight into the existing and past operations of the venue.
“All parties are committed to reaching a positive outcome for the benefit of the stadium, its local community, stadium users and the wider Auckland region. We are looking forward to a bright future for North Harbour Stadium and will continue to support the steering group through this process.”
Nick Hill emphasised that on a day-to-day basis, the Albany venue has become one of the busiest in the region – with Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika, NPC team North Harbour Rugby and A-League football’s Auckland FC all basing their high performance and administrative facilities at the stadium.
“One of the main goals for a change of operator is to improve the overall use of the main stadium arena for ticketed events,” says Nick Hill.
Submissions which meet the pre-conditions of the EOI will be reviewed by an evaluation panel made up of local board, TAU, local and independent representatives. If a preferred proposal is found, a recommendation will be made to the TAU Board to approve entering into negotiations with the preferred operator, with a view to contracts being in place by the middle of this year.
“Until any new operator is appointed, TAU will operate the venue. Our priority is to continue to deliver excellent events such as last October’s All Whites fixture, upcoming Super Rugby games, and May’s Black Ferns test match. We encourage the North Shore to come and watch world-class sport at the stadium,” says Nick Hill.
Anna Atkinson says that crucially, this EOI is Stage 1 of this process and relates to the short-term operational management of NHS.
“The second stage will focus on determining the long-term future vision and role of the stadium and precinct – including ownership, funding, governance, management and any possible improvements.”
ENDS
Due to the commercial nature of the process, submitters into the EOI will remain confidential. Auckland Council, TAU and those managing the process will not be able to comment on the details of submitters while the process is underway.
TAU’s responsibility is as the owner of the asset (on behalf of council) and to ensure that the principles of the trust deed – by which it has to operate the council assets – are upheld.
Upcoming events at North Harbour Stadium:
- Friday 28 February – Moana Pasifika vs Highlanders – Super Rugby
- Saturday 8 March – Moana Pasifika vs Hurricanes – Super Rugby
- Saturday 5 April – Moana Pasifika vs Waratahs – Super Rugby
- Saturday 26 April – Moana Pasifika vs Fijian Drua – Super Rugby
- Saturday 17 May – Moana Pasifika vs Blues – Super Rugby
- Saturday 24 May – Black Ferns vs USA – International Rugby, Pacific Four Series
ACCOMPANYING IMAGES
Images of representatives from the North Harbour Stadium Steering Group and TAU can be found here.