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In a partnership with Waikato Regional Property Trust, Live Nation New Zealand has been announced as the operator of the new Waikato Regional Theatre.

Set to open late-2025 in the heart of Hamilton, the theatre will expand the number of live music shows and other live events in New Zealand’s fastest growing city.

With a capacity of 1300 with standing and seated configurations, the new theatre is expected to also boost economic development - expanding Waikato’s night-time economy and domestic tourism, creating employment opportunities, alongside pathways for industry professionals, and positive economic impact to local hospitality and accommodation providers.

Welcoming the live entertainment company’s management of the new venue, Mark Kneebone, Managing Director of Live Nation New Zealand, stated “we can’t wait to bring some top-tier local and international talent to the stage in Hamilton. It’s a diverse and growing city and we relish our role in contributing to the regional arts and entertainment communities across Aotearoa as custodians of this venue.”

Waikato Regional Property Trust Chairman, Ross Hargood added “our partnership with Live Nation is the single most effective way to realise the vision for the theatre project, as it guarantees the top international and national touring shows can and will visit, that local productions have a top-of-the-line fully resourced venue on their doorstep, and that community, cultural and civic access is affordable and well supported logistically.

“This agreement with Live Nation delivers on our promise to ‘Share the Stage’ and means the Waikato Regional Theatre now has a sustainable and resilient business model that will offer fantastic experiences to audiences, hugely invigorate the Hamilton CBD, and realise substantial economic benefits and advantages for the wider city and region.”

Accommodating lovers of comedy, theatre, family entertainment and all music genres, Live Nation will program the venue which will also include community access for cultural organisations and institutions including kapa haka, orchestras, ballet, and local performing arts.

Live Nation and the Waikato Regional Theatre welcome all enquiries and bookings in anticipation of the completion of building works and the theatre launch.

Images: Concepts for the new Waikato Regional Theatre, set to open next year.

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