SkyCity Entertainment Group has officially taken possession of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) from Fletcher Construction, marking a significant milestone for both the company and the country's events and tourism sectors.
Located between Hobson Street and Nelson Street in central Auckland, the NZICC is positioned to become New Zealand's largest and most versatile conference, exhibition and entertainment venue. Once open, it will have capacity for up to 4,000 attendees, with its main theatre seating 2,850 people and its banquet hall accommodating 3,300 guests.
SkyCity Chief Executive Officer Jason Walbridge described the handover as a "major milestone" for the organisation. "We are delighted to finally have the keys. The NZICC will deliver world-class experiences for everyone who visits, whether it be an international conference, national awards ceremony or community event," he said.
Mr Walbridge added that the centre would act as a catalyst for economic growth, creating more than 300 permanent and part-time roles while generating benefits for tourism, hospitality, retail and local suppliers. "Together we've created something truly unique that we can all be proud of," he said.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston welcomed the handover, calling the venue a "world-class asset" that would attract more visitors and international events to New Zealand.
Over 100 events are already scheduled for 2026, including major conferences by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).
The NZICC will also feature the New Zealand FernMark in its branding, symbolising its national identity and alignment with New Zealand's global reputation.
SkyCity confirmed that operational testing and commissioning will begin immediately ahead of the centre's official opening in February 2026
