About
Forsyth Barr Stadium is Dunedin’s premier venue for unforgettable events, offering all-weather comfort, exceptional facilities, and an atmosphere that’s second to none.
Forsyth Barr StadiumRain hail or shine. Find out more about New Zealand’s first covered Stadium
Forsyth Barr Stadium is where world-class sport, live entertainment, festivals and community events come to life. Located on Dunedin’s waterfront, Forsyth Barr Stadium is the home of the Highlanders and Otago Rugby. Our landmark venue is designed to deliver exceptional experiences in any weather.
Our innovative transparent roof allows fans enjoy the atmosphere of an outdoor event with the comfort of being undercover. The Stadium hosts everything from international rugby and concerts, festivals, and private events, making it one of the South Island’s most versatile venues.
Inside, you’ll find exceptional facilities, premium hospitality spaces, and excellent sightlines from every seat. Whether you’re attending a major event or planning one of your own, the Stadium offers a memorable setting for every occasion.
We would like to acknowledge Aukaha for their advice and mahi as part of the website redevelopment - signifying the continuing relationship with DVML, the Stadium and Mana Whenua.
Our history
Forsyth Barr Stadium stands as one of Dunedin’s most distinctive landmarks, celebrated for its innovative design and its role in transforming the city into a world-class events destination.
Design by Populous and Jasmax, the Stadium opened in 2011 ahead of the International Rugby World Cup. Built to provide Dunedin with a modern, all-weather venue capable of hosting international sport and large-scale entertainment, the Stadium also strengthens the city’s connection to its harbour and urban landscape.
The Stadium takes pride of place on the Otago Harbour waterfront, adjacent to the revitalised Wharf area, in a location that blends city convenience and easy access to the University of Otago. Its construction marked a major investment in Dunedin’s future, driven by a desire to retain international rugby matches and major events in the city. The result was the creation of a facility that not only meets global standards, but also reflects Dunedin’s character and environment.
What sets the Stadium apart is its fully covered roof, the first of its kind in New Zealand. This transparent structure is made from ETFE panels (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene), a lightweight, durable material that lets natural light into the venue while protecting spectators from Dunedin’s famous weather. The design creates the experience of an outdoor Stadium with the comfort and reliability of an indoor arena, ensuring events continue rain, hail, or shine.
The Stadium’s bowl shape and steep seating angles were carefully designed to enhance atmosphere and bring fans closer to the action. The Stadium has a seating capacity of over 28,500 for sporting events and 38,500 for concerts. Integrated hospitality lounges, function spaces, play host to conferences, corporate events, and community gatherings.
Beyond sport, the Stadium has become a cultural hub for the region, hosting international performers, festivals, and public events. More than just a Stadium, Forsyth Barr Stadium represents Dunedin’s resilience, and creative thinking. Its bold design and waterfront setting make it a symbol of progress, one that continues to shape the city’s identity and bring the people of Dunedin City and visitors together for unforgettable experiences.
Our relationship with Dunedin Venues Management Ltd
Forsyth Barr Stadium is managed by Dunedin Venues Management Limited, we employ 30 people across The Dunedin Centre, including the Dunedin Town Hall and Forsyth Barr Stadium.
We are recognised leaders in venue management, driving for and delivering exceptional event experiences that contribute value to the economies and vitality of the communities that we serve across the regions of the south. Building southern pride and prosperity sits at the heart of everything we do.
Our Commitment
As a Council Controlled Organisation of the Dunedin City Council, we are entrusted with the governance and management of these key assets. We act as stewards on behalf of the owners, ensuring the successful operation and maintenance of these premier venues for the people of Dunedin City.
Stadium specifications
Turf
The natural turf consists of three different types of seed, there is 2.5km of drainage and over 15km of irrigation which includes 40 automated sprinkler heads.
Area
Approximately 5.1 hectares
Roof
Fully fixed ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) roof that allows the grass to grow while keeping the rain out
Grass
The pitch uses a blend of natural grass & DESSO Grassmaster
Pitch
Our pitch features Desso GrassMaster, where artificial fibres are injected into the natural turf to reinforce it, creating a consistently world-class playing surface. If you laid every fibre from our pitch end-to-end, it would wrap around the globe!
Roof height
37m max internal height & 47m max external height
Function rooms
24
Changing rooms
2 – Home and Away Teams
