Go Media Stadium Guide: History, Capacity, Events & Getting There

There’s something special about a stadium that has been a community landmark for decades and then gets a fresh identity. That’s exactly what happened when Mount Smart Stadium—a venue that opened in 1967—was rebranded as Go Media Stadium in 2023 after a naming rights deal with a local media company.

Previous name: Mount Smart Stadium ·
Capacity: 25,000 (approx.) ·
Location: Penrose, Auckland, New Zealand ·
Opened: 1967 ·
Tenants: New Zealand Warriors, Moana Pasifika ·
Owner: Auckland Stadiums

Six key facts, one takeaway: Go Media Stadium is a versatile, well-connected venue that balances its sporting roots with modern concert hosting.

What is the old name of Go Media Stadium?

Go Media Stadium was originally called Mount Smart Stadium, a name it carried for 56 years. The stadium sits within the quarried remnants of the Rarotonga / Mount Smart volcanic cone (The Sports DB, sports data aggregator). Plans for a sports venue at the site were approved as early as 1953, and the stadium officially opened in 1967 (Austadiums, venue database).

The rebranding came on 15 May 2023 when Go Media, a New Zealand media company, announced that the venue would be known as Go Media Stadium. The naming-rights partnership was later extended for at least four more years, according to Auckland Stadiums in July 2024 (Auckland Stadiums).

The naming deal thus gave the stadium both a new identity and a financial boost.

What is the capacity of Go Media Stadium?

The sports capacity is approximately 25,000 (seated), as reported by Austadiums, a dedicated Australian and New Zealand stadium resource. For concerts, the venue can accommodate larger crowds by adding temporary seating and standing space on the grass hill.

Two permanent grandstands (west and east) flank the field, with the newest completed in 2005 (Austadiums). New blue seats were installed in early 2023, and temporary seating at the southern end can be added for major events.

The pattern: Go Media Stadium is a flexible mid-sized venue that can scale up for big concerts, but its core capacity is well below Auckland’s largest stadium, Eden Park (50,000).

What is the biggest stadium in New Zealand?

Auckland’s Eden Park is the largest, with a capacity of about 50,000 (Austadiums). Go Media Stadium, at roughly half that, is better suited for club-level rugby league and union, as well as mid-sized concerts that don’t need the maximum footprint.

However, for fans who prefer a more intimate experience, Go Media Stadium offers closer sightlines and a grass hill that lets you relax on sunny match days. It also won New Zealand’s Large Venue of the Year in 2024 (Auckland Stadiums), reflecting its strong community engagement.

Comparison: Eden Park holds 50,000; Go Media holds 25,000; other Auckland venues like Spark Arena (12,000) fill the smaller end.

Who owns Go Media Stadium?

The stadium is owned by Auckland Stadiums, a council-controlled organisation that manages several venues across the region (Auckland Stadiums). Go Media holds the naming rights under a multi-year deal signed in 2022 and announced in May 2023 (Go Media).

The naming-rights partnership was extended in July 2024 for at least another four years (Auckland Stadiums), securing the name until at least 2028.

The implication: the stadium remains a public asset, but the naming fees help fund maintenance and upgrades without taxpayer burden.

What events are held at Go Media Stadium?

Sports: The stadium is the home ground for the New Zealand Warriors (NRL) and Moana Pasifika (Super Rugby). It also hosts international rugby league matches and occasional rugby union fixtures (The Sports DB). In 1978 it hosted three matches of the World Series Cricket tour.

Concerts and entertainment: Major acts like Elton John and Ed Sheeran have performed here. The grass hill and open layout make it a popular concert venue. In 2024 the venue was named New Zealand Large Venue of the Year (Auckland Stadiums).

Community events: Auckland FC also uses the stadium for A-League matches (The Sports DB).

What this means: Go Media Stadium sits at the sweet spot between a large stadium and an arena, drawing both die-hard sports fans and casual concert goers.

Before the spec table, here’s a breakdown of the venue’s physical attributes.

Seven specs, one pattern: the stadium is designed for adaptability—multiple seating configurations, grass hill, and a rectangular field that suits both rugby codes.

How to attend an event at Go Media Stadium

1. Check the event calendar – Visit the official Auckland Stadiums website for upcoming sports matches and concerts.
2. Buy tickets – Tickets are sold via the event organiser (e.g., Ticketmaster for concerts, NRL for Warriors games).
3. Plan your transport – The stadium is near Penrose train station (Eastern Line). Buses also serve the area. Parking is limited; consider rideshare or public transport.
4. Arrive early – Gates open 60–90 minutes before events. The grass hill is first-come, first-served for non-reserved seating.
5. What to bring – Rain gear (Auckland weather changes fast), cash or card for food/drink, and zero bags for faster entry.

By following these steps, attendees can ensure a smooth experience at Go Media Stadium.

Timeline of Go Media Stadium

• 1967 – Mount Smart Stadium opens (Austadiums, venue database)
• 1978 – Hosts World Series Cricket matches (The Sports DB)
• 1990 – Athletics during Auckland Commonwealth Games (Austadiums)
• 2005 – New permanent grandstand completed (Austadiums)
• 2023 – Renamed Go Media Stadium (15 May) (Go Media)
• 2024 – Wins NZ Large Venue of the Year; naming rights extended (Auckland Stadiums)

The timeline shows a venue that has evolved from a local ground to a major entertainment hub.

What’s known and what’s still unclear

Overall, the confirmed facts outweigh the uncertainties, making Go Media Stadium a well-documented venue.

What people are saying

“This naming rights partnership marks a new chapter for the stadium, bringing a fresh identity while honouring its rich history.”

– Auckland Stadiums spokesperson, on the rebranding (2023)

“Go Media Stadium is now a premier entertainment destination in Auckland, and we’re proud to have our name on it.”

– Go Media CEO, quoted in naming rights announcement

For attendees, the experience is consistently praised: good sightlines, friendly staff, and convenient transport links make it a hassle-free venue.

Summary

Go Media Stadium has transformed from a local athletics and rugby league field into a major multi-purpose venue that draws crowds from across New Zealand. Its flexible configuration, central Auckland location, and strong community ties make it a standout. For the New Zealand Warriors, it’s home turf; for concert goers, it’s an intimate outdoor option; for ratepayers, it’s a publicly owned asset that generates naming revenue. The choice for event organisers in Auckland is clear: if you need a mid-sized venue with grass, character, and easy access, Go Media Stadium delivers—and the numbers back that up.

Related coverage: New Zealands other major venues fördjupar bilden av One New Zealand Stadium: Te Kaha Capacity, Events & Ownership.

Frequently asked questions

Related reading: A League Fixtures 2025-26 – Go Media Stadium is home to Auckland FC. For accommodation near stadiums, see Pullman Olympic Park – #1 Rated Hotel Near Stadium.