Live Nation to operate New Zealand theatre

Live Nation New Zealand is to operate a new theatre in New Zealand’s fastest growing city in partnership with Waikato Regional Property Trust.

Set to open in Hamilton in late 2025, the 1,300-cap Waikato Regional Theatre will host music concerts and other live events including comedy, theatre and family entertainment.

The new venue is also intended to boost economic development – expanding Waikato’s night-time economy and domestic tourism, while creating employment opportunities and pathways for industry professionals.

“We can’t wait to bring some top-tier local and international talent to the stage in Hamilton,” says Mark Kneebone, MD of Live Nation New Zealand. “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.”

“Live Nation is thrilled to contribute to the effort to elevate arts and entertainment in the Waikato while bringing our global network and venue management expertise to what will be a world-class theatre,” adds Live Nation Australasia COO Alex Klos. “This wouldn’t be possible without the incredible belief and investment from the Waikato community and Waikato Regional Property Trust to make this venue a reality.”

“Our partnership with Live Nation is the single most effective way to realise the vision for the theatre project”

Live Nation will programme the venue which will also include community access for cultural organisations and institutions.

“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,” says Ross Hargood, chair of the Waikato Regional Property Trust.

“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.”

Live Nation oversees a venue portfolio across New Zealand including Spark Arena and the Tuning Fork in Auckland and San Fran in Wellington.

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