Bank of New Zealand Secures Naming Rights to New Waikato Regional Theatre

Bank of New Zealand has secured the naming rights to the Waikato Regional Theatre, thanks to a new partnership with Live Nation New Zealand.

The partnership will see the 1,300-capacity venue renamed to BNZ Theatre, described to reflect a shared commitment to supporting arts, culture, and community across Hamilton and the wider Waikato region as the venue prepares to open in January 2026.

BNZ Theatre will serve as a gateway to both domestic and international arts and entertainment, offering audiences a world-class venue that champions creativity, cultural exchange, and regional pride.

CEO Dan Huggins said the partnership reflects Bank of New Zealand's commitment to Waikato, and to delivering "meaningful social, cultural and economic benefits".

“Hamilton sits at the heart of New Zealand’s primary sector engine room – a city where agritech, research and rural enterprise intersect to drive billions in value for our national economy," he said.

"BNZ Theatre will not only bring more opportunities to enjoy the vibrant world of the arts, culture, and live entertainment, it will also help to create jobs, support local tourism and local small businesses, particularly in the hospitality and accommodation sectors."

Live Nation ANZ's SVP, Head of Media and Sponsorship, Kristy Rosser, added of the theatre: "From January 2026, its diverse programming will help shape a dynamic cultural hub that attracts local and international performers and elevates this world-class venue."

BNZ Theatre will open its doors for a special civic opening from January 19th to January 21st, with the world premiere of "To the Stars / Kingā Whetū", commissioned by the Waikato Regional Property Trust and produced by Mayall Creative. The event will celebrate the creative spirit of the Waikato region through a performance involving hundreds of local performers from diverse artistic communities.

Māori soul singer TEEKS will be the first major artist to perform on the theatre’s public opening night on January 23rd, followed by New Zealand legends Sir Dave Dobbyn on January 24th and 25th.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, known best for her iconic "Murder on the Dancefloor", will be the first international artist to play the new theatre, on February 3rd.