At first light on 11 February 2026, SkyCity held its ceremonial opening of the NZICC, led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, who bestowed a formal acknowledgement of the deep connection between people and place. Starting with an official ribbon cutting, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, formally opening New Zealand’s largest convention centre.

The following evening, 12 February 2026, the NZICC welcomed its first guests for a celebration event attended by 650 leaders, dignitaries, and partners. This event marked NZICC’s first major activation and showcased the scale and atmosphere of the new venue through light, art, and performance.

Helios, a six-metre sun sculpture by British artist Luke Jerram presented at an approximate scale of 1:230 million, illuminated Ariki Hall. It was showcased alongside Iwi Rau (Many Leaves, One Canopy) a stained-glass installation by artist Sara Hughes inspired by Tāne Mahuta and the forests of Aotearoa. Te Paepae Theatre hosted its first performances with an array of entertainment including kapa haka group Te Whare Karioi, the Auckland Youth Choir and a surprise performance by none other than Six60.

Jason Walbridge, CEO of SkyCity, said: “Seeing the NZICC open its doors and welcome its first guests was a defining moment for Auckland and New Zealand. The NZICC is more than a venue, it is a catalyst for growth. Every event will generate activity that reaches far beyond its walls, supporting local businesses, strengthening regional economies, and creating lasting value for New Zealand.”

Renè de Monchy, CEO of Tourism New Zealand, added “The NZICC plays an important role in positioning New Zealand as a world-class conference and exhibition destination. It gives us the capability to welcome the world in a whole new way and plays an important role in accelerating international visitor arrivals for the Auckland region, and beyond. The NZICC is predicted to attract 33,000 international visitors annually, and those visitors are crucial for sharing knowledge, building global connections, supporting businesses and driving vibrancy and growth.”

Designed by Warren and Mahoney, Moller Architects, and Woods Bagot, the $750 million, purpose-built centre has been designed with accessibility, flexibility, and inclusivity. With 33 meeting spaces, a 2,850-seat theatre, and the capacity to host more than 4,000 delegates, NZICC is equipped to deliver everything from international summits and trade exhibitions to concerts and cultural events.

The venue allows for efficient movement between meetings, exhibitions, banquets and performance spaces. A glass façade provides natural light and views of the city, including the Waitākere Ranges and Waitematā Harbour.

It is located near universities, business headquarters and innovation hubs. The surrounding area includes hotels, dining, retail and entertainment options within walking distance.

The facility includes flexible event spaces across multiple levels, with capacity for 2,700 in pre-function areas, 3,150 for conventions and up to 4,000 for single events. The NZICC is expected to generate more than $90 million in new economic activity each year.

Warren and Mahoney’s Managing Director, John Coop, added: “The building’s design is the product of collaboration and ambition from fellow architects, specifiers, builders, engineers, and artists — at a scale never before seen in Tāmaki Makaurau. We’re proud to have led the design of a project that demonstrates the power of social infrastructure to transform cities, and create meaningful experiences for those within them.”