Waikato celebrates new stadium opening

Opening of the Claudelands Events Centre in Hamilton. Photo / Mark Hamilton

Thousands gathered in Hamilton yesterday for the unveiling of one of New Zealnd's biggest events centres.

Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker officially opened Claudelands, a 6000-seat arena to host concerts, sports games and conferences.

Nearly 12,000 people showed up for the opening, a turnout Claudelands' business development and marketing manager Murray Jeffrey described as a success.

"It was very successful and Claudelands really spoke for itself," he said.

"I think everyone really enjoyed themselves."

The stadium was opened with a speeches and Maori performances.

Attendees were able to peek backstage into star's dressing rooms during the opening.

Hardaker sealed and buried a time capsule on the site. The building cost $68 million, and needed 1690 truck loads of concrete and 1395 tonnes of steel.

It will will screen Rugby World Cup games in 3D, Home and Garden Shows and an Aramgeedon Expo.

Several conferences have shifted north to Claudelands after the Christchurch earthquake, with 84 events now booked for the next year.