SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced that the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will officially open its doors on 11 February 2026.
The gambling and entertainment firm plans a lineup of special events in the initial weeks following the centre’s launch.
“We can’t wait to welcome guests through the NZICC doors from Wednesday 11 February 2026. With more than 100 events confirmed for 2026, the NZICC is a powerful investment into New Zealand’s future, creating opportunities for local businesses, generating jobs for our wider community and elevating Auckland’s event capabilities on a world stage,” SkyCity chief executive Jason Walbridge said.
The NZICC, situated on Hobson and Nelson Streets in Auckland’s city centre, covers a total area of 32,500 square metres across four floors.
NZICC general manager Prue Daly also commented on the announcement, “We look forward to celebrating this milestone with a series of special events during the first few weeks – from a dawn blessing and a spectacular showcase of the building and its world-class food and beverage to a live concert and a public open day for everyone to enjoy.”
The journey of the NZICC from concept to completion has faced challenges, including multiple delays that pushed back its original target opening date of 2020.
The issues included a fire that erupted on the roof in 2019, several delays related to COVID-19, and ongoing disputes that led SkyCity in June to initiate legal action against Fletcher Construction, seeking NZ$330 million (US$200 million) in damages.