The Waikato Regional Theatre today announced a new five-year naming rights partnership with Bank of New Zealand (BNZ), in collaboration with Live Nation New Zealand. The partnership will see the 1,300-capacity venue renamed BNZ Theatre, reflecting 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.
Māori soul singer, TEEKS, will be the first major artist to perform on the theatre’s public opening night on January 23, followed by New Zealand legends Sir Dave Dobbyn (24 – 25 January) and Bic Runga (21 March) and the first international artist Sophie Ellis Bextor on 3 February.
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.
“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.
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.”
Kristy Rosser, Senior Vice President, Head of Media and Sponsorship at Live Nation Australia and New Zealand 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 open its doors for a special civic opening on January 19 through to January 21 with the world premiere of “To the Stars / Kingā Whetū” (19 – 21 January), 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.
Located at 198 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton, BNZ Theatre officially opens to the public on 19 January 2026.
For programming and further information, visit waikatoregionaltheatre.co.nz