Keep up to date as construction progresses.

Watch: Latest look inside new stadium

Tuesday 13 May 2025.

From the roof to the grounds – and everywhere in between – the city’s new stadium is rapidly coming together.

A new video released today provides a look at construction progress at One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

In the entrance of the western stand, escalators, stairs, lifts and the glass façade are all in place. The 23 corporate suites are also nearing completion, with wall linings, joinery and ceilings in place. Many of the kitchens, bathrooms and back-of-house areas are also finished.

The installation of the roof cladding is a key focus for the team on site. This is progressing well from the southern end of the site.

Another milestone for the project, which is now less than one year until completion, is landscaping preparations getting started. 

The project remains on budget and the stadium is on track to open in April 2026.

Site progress

Monday 12 May 2025.

Below is a photo of progress on One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha, taken this morning.

The stadium will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The solid section of roof cladding above the south stand is almost finished and the clear ETFE installation is also underway.

The exterior wall cladding started to be installed in November and is now past halfway. Below is a shot of the west stand, along Madras Street, showing the cladding progress.

External stairs are also being installed in the southern area of the site. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse. The grounds are also being prepared for landscaping, starting at the southern end of the site, along Tuam Street. The stadium grounds will tie in with the Te Kaha Surrounding Streets works.

In the seating bowl, almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand. The 25,000 permanent seats will start being installed in the next few months. The stadium can also accommodate 5000 more seats for large sports matches.

The fit-out of the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand, is progressing well. Many of the kitchens, bathrooms and back-of-house areas are now finished.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now well underway. 

Site progress

Monday 5 May 2025.

Below is a photo of progress on One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha, taken this afternoon.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand. Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. 

The fit-out of the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchens and bathrooms are now finished.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now well underway. 

The stadium will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The roof cladding is tracking well, progressing from the south to the north.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. 

External stairs are also being installed in the southern area of the site. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

Site progress

Monday 28 April 2025.

Below is a photo of progress on the roof of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha, taken last week. The stadium will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The roof cladding is tracking well, progressing from the south to the north.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. 

External stairs are also being installed in the southern area of the site. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

Below is a picture taken inside the stadium this morning. The hydraulic roof supports have now been disassembled and removed. 

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand. Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. 

The fit-out of the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchens and bathrooms are now finished.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. 

Site progress

Tuesday 22 April 2025.

Below is a look at progress on the roof of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha. The stadium will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The roof cladding is tracking well, progressing from the south to the north.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. 

External stairs are also being installed in the southern area of the site. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

Inside the stadium, the fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are now finished.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand.

Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. 

Watch: One year until stadium opens

Monday 14 April 2025.

With one year to go until One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha opens its doors, a new video released today highlights the work done to date and provides a breakdown of the materials used so far on the $683 million project. 

Some of the highlights include 2,780 people being employed and putting in over 1.7 million work hours since work started in April 2022. 

The stadium includes 32,700 cubic metres of concrete and 16,300 tonnes of steel. 

600km of cabling runs throughout the stadium, along with 5km of air conditioning ducting. 

There are 22,000 sheets of GIB inside, 11,500 square metres of steel sheeting, and 1,100 glass panes going in around the outside. 

Construction started in April 2022 and is on track to open in April 2026 - in one year's time.

The countdown is on

Monday 14 April 2025.

The countdown is on until Christchurch’s new stadium opens its doors. 

Construction on One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha started in April 2022, and the $683 million project is on track to open in April 2026 – in one year’s time. 

Mayor Phil Mauger says the milestone is “great for the project and the city”. 

“There’s huge excitement in the community about One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha and all the benefits it will bring to Christchurch. People really can’t wait to get in there for sports matches, big concerts and everything in between,” says Mr Mauger. 

Te Kaha Project CEO David Kennedy says it’s been a “mammoth effort to get the project to this point”. 

“Lead contractor BESIX Watpac and all our sub-contractors have pulled out all the stops, and we’re in a great position to not only deliver one of the biggest infrastructure projects the country has seen, but to deliver it on budget and on time.” 

Read more on Newsline(external link).

Site progress

Monday 7 April 2025.

Below is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning from the northern end of the site.

The temporary roof support towers have now been disassembled and are being removed from site. 

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand.

Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. 

The final secondary steel in the northern end is being installed, fully enclosing the structure.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. The roof cladding is also tracking well, progressing from the south to the north. One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The ETFE is now starting to be installed.

External stairs are also being installed in the southern area of the site. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are nearing completion.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Site progress

Wednesday 2 April 2025.

Below is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this afternoon from the northern end of the site.

This week, the temporary roof support towers (in the centre of the image above) continue to be disassembled and removed from site. 

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand.

Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. External stairs are also being installed in this area. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. The roof cladding is also tracking well, progressing from the south to the north. One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The ETFE is now starting to be installed.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are nearing completion.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Site progress

Monday 24 March 2025.

Below is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this afternoon from the northern end of the site.

This week, the temporary roof support towers are starting to be disassembled and removed.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the last rows being installed in the lower tiers of the east stand.

Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. External stairs are also being installed in this area. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. The roof cladding is also tracking well, progressing from the south to the north. One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The roof is nearing the stage where the ETFE will start to be installed.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are nearing completion.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Site progress

Tuesday 18 March 2025.

Above is a look at One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning, looking south.

Work continues this week on infilling the steel at the north end. Once this is finished over the next few weeks, the temporary roof support towers will be disassembled and removed.

The exterior cladding started to be installed in November and has now finished up along the south stand and is progressing well around the east and west sides of the bowl. The roof cladding is also tracking well, progressing from the south to the north. One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha will be a completely covered venue, with part of the roof made of a clear material called Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE). The ETFE will let sunlight shine through from the north to support turf growth, while protecting visitors from the elements. The roof is nearing the stage where the ETFE will start to be installed.

Above is a look inside the seating bowl. The temporary roof supports are shown in the foreground in darker steel.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the lower tiers continuing to be installed in the south stand this week. Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand. External stairs are also being installed in this area. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse.

A look at progress inside the south stand is shown above.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are nearing completion.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Watch: Take a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha

Thursday 13 March 2025.

From the roof cladding to the premium hospitality spaces, Christchurch’s new stadium build is swiftly coming together.

In a video released today, Christchurch City Council Project Director Kent Summerfield provides an overview of the progress on the $683 million project.

The roof and façade cladding is now well advanced in the southern stand, which backs onto Tuam Street. Crews are also installing the stairs in the south stand.

Several large cranes have been decommissioned since our last update, and the temporary roof supports will soon be deconstructed and moved off-site. The cranes and roof supports have served their purposes since the steel superstructure was completed in late January.

The video also offers a look inside the function lounge and premium general admission areas inside the west stand, where the fit-out is well underway.

The project remains on budget and on track for an April 2026 opening.

Site progress

Tuesday 11 March 2025.

Above is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning from the northern end.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the lower tiers being installed in the south stand. Stairs in the seating bowl have also started to be installed in the south stand.

The external stairs are being installed at the south end of the stadium. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse. 

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. Many of the kitchen and bathroom fit-outs are nearing completion.

The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is on the top floor and is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Work continues on infilling the steel modules at the northern end of the site (shown above). Night works will be undertaken to complete this work, with measures in place to minimise noise. Our contractors will continue to monitor these works and implement any further noise mitigations as required. Once this work is complete, the temporary roof supports (shown in the darker steel above) will be deconstructed and removed from the site.

Roof cladding is continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape.  Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. 

Site progress

Tuesday 4 March 2025.

Above is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning from the northern end.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the lower tiers being installed. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The external stairs have started to be installed at the south end of the stadium. These will provide an exit from the level one concourse. 

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Work continues on infilling the steel modules. Night works will be undertaken to complete this work, with measures in place to minimise noise. Our contractors will continue to monitor these works and implement any further noise mitigations as required.

Roof cladding is continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape.  Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. 

Site progress

Monday 24 February 2025.

Above is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning from the northern end.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the lower tiers being installed. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Work continues on infilling the steel modules. Night works will be undertaken to complete this work, with measures in place to minimise noise. Our contractors will continue to monitor these works and implement any further noise mitigations as required.

Roof cladding is continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Site progress

Monday 17 February 2025.

Above is a look inside One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning from the northern end.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place, with the lower tiers being installed. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Work continues on infilling the steel modules. Night works will be undertaken to complete this work, with measures in place to minimise noise. Our contractors will continue to monitor these works and implement any further noise mitigations as required.

Roof cladding is continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Site progress

Monday 10 February 2025.

Above is a view of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning.

The final steel modules for the walls were installed in January. Work continues on infilling these modules with steel. Night works will be undertaken to complete this work, with measures in place to minimise noise. Our contractors will continue to monitor these works and implement any further noise mitigations as required.

Roof cladding is also continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

The final coat of paint is also being applied to the steel superstructure.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand is progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is now underway. The fit-out of the players' dressing rooms and facilities is underway on the ground floor of the west stand.

Watch: Stadium construction starts the year strong

Monday 3 February 2025.

 

The steel superstructure of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha is now complete, marking a major milestone for the $683 million project.

In a new video released today, Christchurch City Council Project Director Kent Summerfield provides an update on this latest achievement and a look at other key work areas around the site.

The video also shows the progress on several other areas of the site, including the exterior wall and roof cladding, seating bowl and player facilities in the western stand.

Construction will continue throughout 2025, with the stadium project on budget and on track to open in April 2026.

Site progress

Monday 27 January 2025.

Above is a view of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken today.

The final steel modules for the walls were installed last week. These can be seen suspended from the crane in the image above. Each of these modules are made up of two radial trusses and infills, making these the largest steel modules of the project, weighing around 160 tonnes each. For comparison, the largest roof module weighs around 116 tonnes, and a single radial truss weighs around 75 tonnes. 

Roof cladding is also continuing this week. This stage of work started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The exterior cladding is also progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand is progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This is now underway.

Site progress

Tuesday 21 January 2025.

Above is a view of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning.

Work to install the steel roof structure is finishing up, with the final section of the roof above the north stand going in last week. Roof cladding started being installed above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The final steel modules for the walls are currently being prefabricated on-site. Two modules will fill the space in the north stand (seen in the photo above). Each will be made up of two radial trusses and infills, making these the largest steel modules of the project, weighing around 160 tonnes each. For comparison, the largest roof module weighs around 116 tonnes, and a single radial truss weighs around 75 tonnes. The welding activities for the steel structures need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions. The final steel modules will be installed this week, weather-dependent. 

The exterior cladding is progressing from the south stand around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stands, and the fit-out of the western stand is progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Site progress

Thursday 16 January 2025.

Above is a view of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning.

Work to install the steel roof structure is finishing up, with the final section above the north stand going in this week (weather dependent). Roof cladding started being installed above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months, progressing north.

The final steel modules for the walls are currently being prefabricated on-site. Two modules will fill the space in the north stand (seen in the photo above). Each will be made up of two radial trusses and infills, making these the largest steel modules of the project, weighing around 160 tonnes each. For comparison, the largest roof module weighed around 116 tonnes, and a single radial truss weighs around 75 tonnes. The welding activities for the steel structures need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

The exterior cladding is progressing from the south stand (pictured above) around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed later in the year, at the northern end of the site. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site, the finished look of the steel is shown in the image above.

Almost all of the tiered concrete plats that the seats will be attached to are now in place. Metalwork and handrails in the seating bowl are starting to be installed this quarter, with the seats to follow.

The fit-out of the stands is well advanced, with the food and beverage outlets in the southern and eastern stand, and fitout of the western stand  progressing well. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Site progress

Wednesday 8 January 2025.

Above is a view of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha taken this morning.

Work to install the steel roof structure is finishing up, with the final section in the north stand going in early next week (weather dependent). The roof cladding started above the south stand late last year and will continue over the next few months.

The exterior cladding is progressing from the south stand (along Tuam Street) around the bowl to the east and west. The façade features a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork. The cladding work is expected to be completed around the middle of 2025, at the northern end of the site.

Thirty-six of 40 radial trusses have now been installed. These support the roof. The remaining four will be installed around the northern end of the stadium in the coming weeks.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's food and beverage outlets is underway in the southern stand. 

Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Site progress

Monday 16 December 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the fourth roof truss is starting up this week with the first two sections scheduled for installation. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being prefabricated onsite. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install in total. 

Thirty-six of 40 radial trusses have now been installed. These support the roof. The remaining four will be installed around the northern end of the stadium (pictured below) early in the new year.

Fifteen of 20 radial diaphragm modules have been installed and one more is scheduled to go in this week (weather permitting). These connect to the tops of the radial trusses.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

Work to install the exterior cladding is progressing from the south stand (along Tuam Street) to the east and west. The façade will feature a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork.

The last sheets will be installed in the north stand around the middle of 2025. Roof cladding is also underway and will progress from the south to the north.

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's food and beverage outlets is underway in the southern stand.

Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. 

We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Site progress

Monday 9 December 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the third roof truss is finishing up this week with the middle section scheduled for installation. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being prefabricated onsite. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install in total. 

The roof is supported by radial trusses (vertical steel columns that stand around 37m tall), radial diaphragm modules (which weigh up to 160 tonnes and attach to the tops of the radial trusses), and oculus roof trusses that stretch across the field of play.

Thirty-six of 40 radial trusses have now been installed. The remaining four will be installed around the northern end of the stadium (pictured below) early in the new year. Fourteen of 20 radial diaphragm modules have been installed and two more are scheduled to go in this week (weather permitting).

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

Work to install the exterior cladding is progressing from the south stand (along Tuam Street) to the east and west. The façade will feature a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork.

The last sheets will be installed in the north stand around the middle of 2025. Roof cladding is also underway and will progress from the south to the north.

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's food and beverage outlets is underway in the southern stand.

Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. 

We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Watch: sky-high stadium progress

Friday 6 December 2024.

 

Roof construction has passed the halfway mark at One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

A new drone video, released today, provides a close-up look at the progress on the $683 million construction project and commentary from BESIX Watpac Project Director Adrian Jones.

The structure for the north-west stand is now complete and 90% of the radial truss roof supports are in place. The steelwork for the roof structure has passed the halfway mark and will wrap up in the new year.  

Steel cladding on the exterior of the stadium started last Wednesday. The façade will feature a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape.

The Te Kaha Project remains on budget and on track for an April 2026 opening.

December progress photos

Friday 6 December 2024.

Here's a look at the south stand, along Tuam Street, where the first section of exterior cladding is being installed. There will be over 800m of steel sheeting installed on the façade over the next six months. Windows have also recently been installed to this area.

Here's a closer look at the exterior cladding. The design has been created by local artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) and represents the natural features that surround the stadium on each side; Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula, Port Hills, Kā Tiritiri o te Moana Southern Alps, and Maukatere Mt Grey.

There will be 31 food and beverage outlets and bars throughout the venue. Progress on the south stand facilities is shown above. This area will also provide a view of the field of play.

The view above is from the west stand, looking towards the south stand, where the first sections of roof cladding have been installed. The roof cladding will progress from south to north, following behind the roof steel installation.

Site progress

Tuesday 3 December 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the third roof truss is progressing this week, with the second and third sections scheduled for installation. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being prefabricated onsite. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install in total.

The roof is supported by radial trusses (vertical steel columns that stand around 37m tall), radial diaphragm modules (which weigh up to 160 tonnes and attach to the tops of the radial trusses), and oculus roof trusses that stretch across the field of play.

Thirty-six of 40 radial trusses have now been installed. The remaining four will be installed around the northern end of the stadium (pictured below) early in the new year. Fourteen of 20 radial diaphragm modules have been installed.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

In another milestone for the project, the exterior cladding started to be installed last week. The façade will feature a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork.

The cladding installation has started on the south stand along Tuam Street and will progress to the east and west, with the last sheets to be installed in the north stand around the middle of 2025. Roof cladding is also underway and will progress from the south to the north.

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's 23 food and beverage outlets is underway in the southern stand. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site. The media platform is the last section of the west stand to be completed. This will get underway soon.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Site progress

Monday 25 November 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the third roof truss is getting underway this week. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being prefabricated onsite. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install over the coming months.

The roof is supported by radial trusses (vertical steel columns that stand around 37m tall), radial diaphragm modules (which weigh up to 160 tonnes and attach to the tops of the radial trusses), and oculus roof trusses that stretch across the field of play.

Thirty-six of 40 radial trusses have now been installed. The remaining radial trusses will be installed around the northern end of the stadium (pictured below) over the next few months.

Twelve of 20 RDMs have now been installed, with another scheduled to go up this week.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

In another milestone for the project, the exterior cladding is starting to be installed this week. The façade will feature a pattern made up of 800m of steel sheeting in colours representing the Canterbury landscape. Local visual artist and graphic designer Morgan Darlison (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) has developed the artwork for the stadium. Learn more about the artwork.

The cladding installation starts on the south stand along Tuam Street and will progress to the east and west, with the last sheets to be installed in the north stand around the middle of 2025. Roof cladding is also underway.

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's 23 food and beverage outlets is underway in the southern stand. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Site progress

Monday 18 November 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the second roof truss is underway. The first two sections (to the east and west) have been installed, with the centre section scheduled for this week. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being pre-fabricated on-site. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install over the coming months. Roof cladding will begin soon, at the south end of the stadium, once the roof steelwork has progressed.

The roof is supported by radial trusses (vertical steel columns that stand around 37m tall), radial diaphragm modules (which weigh up to 160 tonnes and attach to the tops of the radial trusses), and oculus roof trusses that stretch across the field of play.

35 of 40 radial trusses have now been installed, with one more installation scheduled for this week. The remaining radial trusses will be installed around the northern end of the stadium over the next few months.

11 of 20 the RDMs have now been installed.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

The fit-out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's 23 food and beverage outlets is progressing well in the southern stand. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Site progress

Monday 11 November 2024.

Above is a view looking towards the south stand of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

Work to install the second roof truss started late last week. The first section is shown suspended from a crane in the image above. The next two sections are scheduled for installation over the next fortnight. Each roof truss is made up of three modular sections, which are being pre-fabricated on-site. There are four of these massive three-piece structures to install over the coming months. Roof cladding will begin soon, at the south end of the stadium, once the roof steelwork has progressed.

The roof is supported by radial trusses (vertical steel columns that stand around 37m tall), radial diaphragm modules (which weigh up to 160 tonnes and attach to the tops of the radial trusses), and oculus roof trusses that stretch across the field of play.

34 of 40 radial trusses have now been installed, with one more installation scheduled for this week. The remaining radial trusses will be installed around the northern end of the stadium over the next few months.

11 of 20 the RDMs have now been installed.

The welding activities for the roof structure need to progress continually, requiring night shift work to be completed. Measures are being taken to minimise noise emissions.  

The fit out process inside the stands is also progressing well, with painting and other finishing works well underway. Framing for the venue's 23 food and beverage outlets is progressing well in the southern stand. Painting crews have now started the process of applying the final coat of paint across the steelwork on site.

Over the coming months, trucks will continue to deliver oversized components of structural steel to the site. This will be happening before 7am so that the oversized wide loads are off the road before the restrictions begin at 7am. Contractors will unload and lift the loads from 7am. We expect to receive about two oversized deliveries a week. However, we are unable to provide specific times due to the susceptibility to work processes and weather conditions, such as priming and painting.

Watch: Stadium progress update

Tuesday 5 November 2024.

It’s been another busy month of construction progress for One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha.

In a new video update released today, Christchurch City Council Project Director Kent Summerfield provides an update on the city’s new 30,000-seat stadium.

One of the key milestones for the month has been the roof progress. The giant hydraulic towers that support the roof have been relocated to support a new row of roof trusses being installed across the field of play.

Walkways and lighting are being installed in the roof structure, and the fit out to all stands is progressing well. Framing for the food and beverage outlets around the stadium have started to go up in the south stand.

Work to prepare for the installation of the façade cladding is tracking well, with the first sheets of steel cladding set to be installed in November. A unique design for both the façade and the stadium's seating was unveiled last week.

The Te Kaha Project remains on budget and on track for an April 2026 opening.

 

Looking for older news?

Check out the 'Newsline stories' or 'Newsletters' dropdown boxes for the full archive, or feel free to get in touch with the team by emailing info@tekahaproject.co.nz. 

Below is a library of progress images taken from near the construction site.

We add new images to this monthly. 

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Chelsea Pokaia

Flooring Installer, Floortek Ltd

Day to day... I prepare and install flooring, including carpet, vinyl and timber. The stadium has carpet tiles, and a rubber flooring in the player warm up areas.

The best part of my job... being able to stand back at the end of a job and see it finished. It gives me a sense of pride.

Past projects: We do a lot of residential places, but also larger projects like Youthhub, which has a nice caulk flooring. We travel a bit for work and have done things like hotels in Queenstown.

Outside of work... play guitar and Hula Hoop, circus style.

Odette Urlich

Project Health and Safety Coordinator

Position: Project Health and Safety Coordinator

Day to day... I'm on site about 90% of the day. I'm responsible for making sure people are set up for success, with the right tools for the right job. I'm there to help with solutions, and help the team access whatever they need to succeed. It's not just about reactive safety, but to be there and available to all trades so we can be proactive about safety.

The best part of my job... getting to walk around and interact with everyone on site. I get called 'aunty' a lot. This is by far the coolest project I've worked on in terms of the relationships with the people on the project, what we’re actually building and how awesome it looks – it’s really coming together.

Past projects: I've been working on this project since September 2023. Previously I was involved with the School of Medicine project and the Seascape project, which is the tallest residential tower in the country.

Outside of work... I love camping. My husband and I recently bought a camper trailer and enjoy getting out there, hunting for gemstones and things like that. 

Paul Smyth

Senior Safety Manager, Southbase.

Day to day I… arrange upcoming works to make sure the job runs smoothly. I'm on site about 65% of the time, and in the office the rest.

The best part of my job... seeing a project through from start to finish, and working with the BESIX crew and the talented subs and people on site. I enjoy the everyday camaraderie. 

Past projects: I've been in New Zealand for 30 years and I've worked on projects like the BNZ Centre, schools, and Wigram Airforce Museum. 

Outside of work... I golf, fish, hunt deer.

Reece Hayman

Foreman Roofer at Graham Hill Roofing.

Position: Foreman Roofer at Graham Hill Roofing.

Day to day I… work on the wall cladding team. My main task is helping out the team and making sure everything is installed right the first time, as there's no room for error. This is the first time I've worked on a pattern - usually we'd be installing a solid colour. We get a coded map, with each sheet numbered. Every sheet has to line up to the millimeter so the pattern joins up properly.

The best part of my job... looking at the end result. We put up three bays yesterday and it's hard to see when you're working up close because the pattern is on such a big scale, but when you stand back at the end of the day it's satisfying.

Past projects: We've worked on the Convention Centre, a few schools and the cardboard cathedral.

Outside of work... I've got a one and a half year old daughter that's my world.

John Alojado

Brush painter, Cake Commercial Services.

Day to day I… do a few different jobs including application of fire rated paint, and the polyurethane coat for finishing touches. I also waterblast before painting.

The best part of my job... meeting different people on site, talking with them and learning what they do for their daily jobs.

Past projects: I worked at Parakiore for one year. I’ve spent a year so far working at the stadium.

Outside of work... I am a home person. I like watching movies and series on Netflix, and documentaries.

Ben Stuart

Site Manager, The Connect Group.

Day to day I… look after both the workers and client, making sure everyone has everything they need, whether it’s gear, materials or labour. We have 12 people working on site grouting the connections between the steel and concrete, sealing, installing waterproof membranes, and doing a bit of concrete cutting.

The best part of my job: I really enjoy the pressure, it keeps me thinking and on my toes. When I solve a problem, it gives me a huge boost.

Past projects: I ran the work on the Ryman Retirement Village in Riccarton. I’ve also recently worked on a restoration project at 96 Lichfield Street.

Outside of work... I do competitive cheerleading with the University of Canterbury team. I also like gymnastics and circus aerials. Working on my house keeps me busy too.

Shayne Johnston

Supervisor, Scott Structural Steel.

Day to day I… install structural steel. All the concrete seating plats in the bowl structure are sitting on this steel. We’ll be finishing that area shortly. 

Best part of my job is: working with mates and people I meet on the job. 

Past projects: Some big projects I’ve worked on include the Convention Centre and a library in Marlborough. 

Outside of work… I’m busy with family, the kids, wife and golf.  

Richard Clio

Site Manager, Alpha South.

Day to day I… work with my team on the interiors of the stands. We’re installing walls, ceilings skirting and doorways in the corporate boxes and stands. 

The best part of my job is working with other trades. It makes me better, expanding my knowledge. 

Past projects: I’ve worked on the Convention Centre, hospital, and a school in Belfast. 

Outside of work… I’m a dad and enjoy hiking and fishing – even though I never catch anything, I still love it! 

Adrian Jones 

Project Director and Contractors Rep.

Day to day... I’m responsible for delivery of the project for BESIX Watpac. Ultimately I am responsible for everything associated with the construction of the project, whilst being the contractual point of contact between BESIX Watpac and Council. A typical day is varied, providing leadership to the project team and keeping the Council informed every step of the way.  

The best part of my job: Working with a very talented and dedicated team, and seeing what such a high performing team can deliver as well as the challenges they can overcome.

Everyone’s excited to be working on this project and it’s not often you work on a project that the community is also excited about. 

Past projects: I’ve worked on projects in Brisbane, Melbourne, Darwin and now New Zealand. Of note, the redevelopment of an entire TAFE college in Brisbane, which spread across two city blocks. Also, a major hospital redevelopment project in Brisbane and an liquified natural gas plant in Darwin. 

Outside of work I... like spending time with my family, getting out and seeing the sights of New Zealand, seeing as we’ve moved here fairly recently. 

Brian Hayes

Project Director – Construction NZ.

Day to day... I work within a large team on the build side of the project. My job involves managing the team, forecasting ahead, and working on mitigation strategies for anything that comes up. 

The best part of my job: I always wanted to work in construction, so I’m really enjoying what I do. I like being with people and trying to get the best out of them. 

Past projects: I worked on the North Queensland Stadium, the home of the Cowboys. It’s great to work on a project that you can come back to and enjoy. I’ve also worked on some high-end residential developments on the river in Queensland. 

Outside of work... I like to keep fit with a bit of cross fit, a bit of mountain biking and keeping my kids occupied.  

Phil Riding

Services Site Manager.

Day to day: I work with all services trades, like electricians and plumbers, to plan and programme in the work. There's a lot of forecasting and anticipating any issues that might come up and problem solving. 

The best part of my job is: the satisfaction of seeing progress from week to week, and being part of making it happen. 

Past projects: I've worked on the Court Theatre, a few schools, and the new workshop and office block for the Lyttelton straddle cranes.

Outside of work: I'm a volunteer firefighter for the Spencerville Volunteer Fire Brigade. We were involved in the response to the recent Port Hills fires. I was working 12 hour shifts, looking for any hotspots. It was great to have the support of BESIX to be able to go out and do this work. 

Jenny Divers

Construction Survey Lead, Graham Surveying.

Day to day: I'm in charge of all the survey work on site. Basically, we bring the designer's vision to life by building a full 3D model which shows where everything should go. The steel is manufactured to these specifications. Once it's built, my team also does quality assurance to make sure everything is right.

I've been on site right from the beginning of the project, working through the stages of piling, foundations, hold down bolts, and the bowl structure. We're now working on the roof stage.

The best part of my job is: Having the opportunity to work indoors and outdoors. I get a really nice mix of being on site and in the office with the team. It's also great getting to work with people from all different backgrounds and specialities. I've learnt so much about other trades and seeing how all the elements come together.

Past projects: I've worked all over Queensland doing construction surveying, including working on a new runway at Brisbane Airport, and high-rise residential buildings in Brisbane. 

Outside of work: I have a three-year-old daughter, so lots of time is spent on family trips to the beach or park. I'm also into smoking meat and craft beer, and we're in the middle of some home renovations.