Industry News

Locals make Eden Park day-night debut a success

Eden Park has identified its strong relationship with the local community in Auckland as a major factor in its successful hosting of New Zealand’s first-ever day-night Test cricket match.

The home side thrashed opponents England in the first five-day day-night game to be played at the country’s largest and most famous stadium.

The game was also the first Sunday night sporting event at Eden Park in 115 years.

The venue’s application to host the game on a Sunday night was supported by a number of residents who, according to Eden Park officials, “expressed their view very clearly that they consider more activity at the Park to be beneficial to their local amenity.”

In a statement, Eden Park said they will continue to consult broadly with the community in considering future event activity and plans to retain the community’s trust in hosting events responsibly, taking their interests into account.

Chief executive Nick Sautner said: “Eden Park has once again showcased Auckland to a global broadcast audience and in doing so delivered significant economic benefits to Auckland and its communities.”

According to officials, there was ample evidence of goodwill from local residents, with some sharing coffee and cake with security staff.

In another first, the main oval is set to host residents of ‘The Hood’ for a match of backyard cricket tomorrow evening. Thirty families have been invited to test their skills on the very pitch the Black Caps and England have just graced.

An Eden Park spokesperson said: “A number of the new initiatives developed collaboratively with NZC specific to this day-night Test showcases Eden Park’s flexibility and collective can-do approach.

We are very grateful for the support of local businesses and our neighbourhood in helping to secure the inaugural day-night Test for New Zealand.”

IMAGE: Eden Park