Hospo sector welcomes Eden Park concert boost

The decision to increase the number of concerts able to be held at Eden Park each year is welcome news for Auckland’s hospitality sector, says Hospitality New Zealand.

Eden Park has received consent to double its number of annual concert events, hosting up to 12 concert events featuring six different artists annually.

Eden Park CEO Nick Sautner has described it as a landmark moment for Auckland and New Zealand’s entertainment scene. “Expanding venue availability enables us to offer artists flexibility to perform multiple shows to meet fan demand, making Auckland a more attractive stop on their global tours,” says Sautner.

“Live concerts at Eden Park create over 3,000 jobs for each event and attract thousands of visitors to our city, boosting our tourism, hospitality and accommodation sectors while also providing much-needed escapism and entertainment for people.”

Steve Armitage, Hospitality New Zealand’s Chief Executive, agrees it is great news for Auckland. “Major events like concerts at Eden Park bring life and energy to the city, and they’re a real boost for local businesses, including hospitality and accommodation operators.

“The run of Coldplay and Pearl Jam concerts in Auckland earlier this month brought the city to life, filling our venues and restaurants with visitors keen to experience more than just the music. Accommodation occupancies were also close to 90%.”