Auckland FC is backing Auckland Arena, a venue that will transform Western Springs Stadium into a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue that combines sport, culture and entertainment.
Auckland Council and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), who currently own and operate Western Springs Stadium, are seeking feedback from the public on options for the venue’s future use.
The first option is Auckland Arena, a venue that if successful, will feature a 12,500-15,000-seat stadium that will serve as a home ground for Auckland FC.
Auckland FC is now encouraging fans to back the bid and have their say on the future of Western Springs Stadium by submitting a submission to Auckland Council.
The easiest way to do this is online here, click the ‘Have Your Say’ button at the bottom of the page. Fill in your details, select Option One – Auckland Arena, add any comments and submit.
Alternatively, people can feedback in writing by filling in a feedback form. These can be collected from Mt Albert, Pt Chevalier, Grey Lynn or Central City libraries.
The deadline for submissions is 11.59pm on Sunday 15 June 2025. So
As well as the stadium, Auckland Arena will feature an event space and community sport facilities and host concerts for up to 25,000 people.
Ali Williams is an Auckland FC investor and one of the primary backers of the Auckland Arena proposal.
“This isn’t just about giving Auckland FC a home of our own, it’s about creating a community asset we as Aucklanders can all enjoy – whether we’re regularly going to games or not,” says Ali.
“And best of all the whole facility will be entirely privately funded, so it doesn’t need to cost the ratepayer a cent.”
Auckland Arena will be entirely privately funded, with our $200-$300 million investment covering all construction, operating and maintenance costs.
Under the Auckland Arena proposal, Auckland Council will grant a 50-year ground lease, with two optional 25-year renewals, so the land stays in public ownership and the buildings revert to the Council at the end of the lease.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s assessment indicates this arrangement could save ratepayers about $18.1 million over the next 50 years.
