The Waikato Regional Theatre has announced a new five-year naming rights partnership with Bank of New Zealand. The deal is in collaboration with Live Nation New Zealand.
The partnership will see the 1,300-capacity venue renamed BNZ Theatre. It reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting arts, culture, and community across Hamilton and the wider Waikato region.
Māori soul singer Teeks will be the first major artist to perform, on January 23. Teeks is followed by New Zealand legends Sir Dave Dobbyn on January 24-25 and Bic Runga on March 21. The first international artist to play the rechristened venue will be Sophie Ellis Bextor on February 3.
BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says: “We’re proud to support BNZ Theatre – Waikato’s premier new arts and entertainment venue located in the heart of Hamilton city. This partnership reflects our commitment to the Waikato and to delivering meaningful social, cultural, and economic benefits to our customers and the wider community.
Increased opportunities
“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,” Huggins adds.
“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.
“We are looking forward to being part of the extensive programming BNZ Theatre will bring to the region and celebrating with our customers and the wider community.”
An exciting new chapter
Live Nation Australia and New Zealand senior vice president, head of media and sponsorship Kristy Rosser says: “BNZ’s partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the Waikato Regional Theatre, now BNZ 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 hold a special civic opening from January 19-21 with the world premiere of ‘To the Stars / Kingā Whetū’. Waikato Regional Property Trust commissioned the show, which is being 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.
