From changing rooms to coaches’ boxes, fans are set to be able to explore the back of house areas of One New Zealand Stadium with the launch of Stadium Tours.

From changing rooms to coaches’ boxes, fans are set to be able to explore the back of house areas of One New Zealand Stadium with the launch of Stadium Tours.

Venues Ōtautahi confirmed the ticketed Stadium Tours will start from 24 July, giving guests the opportunity to explore parts of the Stadium which have so far remained exclusive to players, entertainers and officials.

The Christchurch City Council-owned venues and events company will host multiple tours each week. The tours include visits to the media and coaches’ spaces on level 4, the Scenic Hotels’ Circle on level 3, the suites on level 2, the Ōtautahi Lounge on level 1, and the changing rooms, players’ tunnel and field side on the ground floor.

The tours also include interactive elements in the changing rooms and plenty of photo opportunities and exclusive souvenirs.

One NZ Stadium has had a whirlwind start selling out its first seven event days followed by setting a new attendance record for a women’s domestic match last weekend.

Venues Ōtautahi Chief Executive Caroline Harvie-Teare said it has been incredible the way the city has got behind every event at the stadium.

“Our city waited a long time for a world-class venue like this one and we are so incredibly grateful the community have turned up in force for every event. Now that we’ve had an opportunity to get established at the venue, the timing is right to launch the tours programme and take guests behind the scenes into the exclusive spaces which only a small number of people get to see.”

Harvie-Teare said Christchurch City residents would be eligible for a 50 percent discount on tours.

“We are privileged to operate the stadium on behalf of our community, the ratepayers of Ōtautahi, Christchurch so it’s important these tickets are accessible to all.”

Venues Ōtautahi Director Impact and Experience Todd Schmidt said public tours would be an extension of their private tours programme which have been operating since the stadium opened.

“We have had incredible feedback from those who have experienced the tours so far. The stadium is a stunning piece of architecture, but it’s the stories behind each feature of the venue that surprises people the most,” he said.

“Our tours are about taking guests on a journey through what it took for us to get this stadium, the cultural narrative or the designs and artwork, the science of the turf, and some insight into what it takes to operate a world class facility.”

Private tours are available for groups or businesses with over 10 people and include optional food and beverage packages.

Stadium Tours are live on the One New Zealand Stadium website.