KEY POINTS:
By now you should all know that Vector Arena is finally complete and about to open its shiny glass doors to its first concert - Rockstar Supernova - this Saturday.
You probably also know that the arena cost approximately $80 million, seats more than 12,000 and is opening seven months behind schedule.
But what about the important stuff - How do we get there? Where do we get a drink around there? How much will a pie cost?
We braved the astringent fresh paint smell and maze-like corridors of Auckland's newest venue to find out this and more.
We even checked out the Green Room backstage - which isn't green but deep red, with mustard-coloured sofas and two widescreen, plasma TVs- and discovered the emergency override button that has the ability to cut all power and sound to the venue and bring up full house lights.
Most importantly, we tried out one of the 12,200 seats and can report back that they are padded, quite comfortable and should prevent the numb-bum syndrome, which has plagued Auckland venues for years.
Where to go
Anyone who has driven along Auckland's waterfront in the past two years will have seen the giant brown arena under construction.
But you can't actually access the building from Quay St. Instead, head to Customs St and turn into Mahuhu Cres, behind the Quay Park Health building.
Be warned, a one-way street blocks the end of Mahuhu Cres, turning it into a dead end. But that shouldn't be an issue as the road will be closed on event nights anyway.
Getting there
According to the website, "over 7000 car parks are located within 1.5km" of Vector Arena. Unfortunately, there are also several apartment buildings, a university hostel, an A&E clinic and a variety of other businesses located within that same 1.5km. Our advice: don't even think about driving. The good news is, the arena's reasonable proximity to Britomart, Queen St and Parnell means public transport isn't such a bad idea. Unless it's raining, in which case, prepare to get wet.
Amenities
Vector Arena sports what looks to be a more than ample supply of toilets, which this intrepid reporter can testify were shiny, clean and smelt powder fresh on Monday morning. There's no telling what they'll be like by late Saturday night, but at least they're solid fixtures. Which, let's be honest, is a big step up for an Auckland concert venue.
Booze and food
With seven double concession stands serving alcohol and snacks as well as an on-site bistro, this is one area the Vector Arena planners have really got covered. Offering a variety of hot food and snacks, some of the menu highlights include Jelly Tip ice creams for $3.50 or meat pies at $4. Beer will set you back $6 and wine $6.50.
Bistro Arena is open daily from 7am as a cafe, with full dining options available in the evenings before shows. Given the arena's less-than-salubrious location, you're probably best sticking to the on-site options. Unless you fancy a quick pre-show aperitif at Showgirls, down the road.Joanna Hunkin
