Go Media Stadium: All You Need to Know

Go Media Stadium, historically known as Mt Smart Stadium, is the home of the New Zealand Warriors, located in the suburb of Penrose, Auckland, roughly 8 km south of the CBD. 

Opened in 1967, it’s a bastion for rugby league in New Zealand with passionate Kiwi fans in blue, black, and white creating a distinctive home-ground atmosphere. In 2024, the New Zealand Warriors became the first team in NRL history to sell out an entire season of home games in response to the side's strong 2023 season, a true testament to the dedication of league fans across the ditch. 

Warriors Rugby League: A Kiwi Stronghold

Go Media Stadium has been the heartbeat of the Warriors’ journey since the club’s inception in 1995. It has hosted historic NRL finals campaigns, milestone matches, and memorable clashes like a 2008 Semi-Final win over the Roosters and more recently a 40 points to ten thrashing over the Knights. Fans have witnessed unforgettable moments from club legends like the electrifying Stacey Jones the Warriors top try scorer, Manu Vatuvei. 

The stadium isn’t just a venue - it’s a symbol of rugby league resilience in New Zealand. While the country has long been dominated by rugby union, the Warriors have carved out a loyal and passionate following, with Go Media Stadium serving as a platform where Kiwi pride and league passion converge. With a capacity of around 30,000, the stadium features two main grandstands that run along both touchlines and more hill styled seating options at each end creating an open and exposed playing surface that combines the intimacy of a close-knit sporting venue with modern facilities, giving fans an up-close view of the action and the Warriors a tangible home-ground advantage.

Best Places for a Pre-Game Drink

Lilyworld
Go Media Stadium’s dedicated garden bar located on the site of the former Lilyworld Stage that was a favourite at the Big Day Out Festivals of the 2000’s. Located just steps away from the gates of the stadium, the new take Lilyworld offers a relaxed garden bar vibe with outdoor seating, lawn games, food, drinks, and live music, the perfect pre-match hangout.

The Springs Tavern
Just a short walk from Go Media Stadium, The Springs Tavern is a lively local with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Enjoy classic pub meals and a laidback vibe in the courtyard while the kids play in the sandpit and catch the pre-game on the big screens.

Epic Taproom
A short trip from the stadium, Epic Taproom pours rotating in house craft brews in a giant warehouse kitted out with arcade games. Pair pizzas or platters with your drinks and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and live tunes.

Getting There

By Public Transport

Buses run regularly from Auckland CBD, Mt Eden, and surrounding suburbs to Go Media Stadium. On game days, additional bus services are often scheduled to handle the crowds. The nearest train station is Onehunga, with a short bus or walk connection to the ground.

By Car

Parking is limited around the stadium, with residential restrictions in place, fans are encouraged to arrive early, use nearby paid car parks, or consider ride-share/taxi drop-offs. Event shuttles are not typically provided.

Game Day

Food & Drinks
Go Media Stadium Mt Smart offers a mix of traditional stadium fare and Kiwi favourites, including pies, hot dogs, burgers, chicken schnitzels, and chips, with vegetarian options at select outlets. Bars throughout the ground provide beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Merchandise

Merchandise is available on game day at the stadium, with the majority of Warriors items at the Main Merchandise Outlet near the entrance to the stand. Smaller selections are located at the concourse of the Northern Stand and the South Stand. Fans can also visit the official Warriors Online Store.

Accessibility
For wheelchair or accessible seating, or if you need help with tickets, contact Ticketmaster at 09 970 9711 or ticketmaster.co.nz/help. Mobility entrances are Gates A, B, or C, with volunteers in blue hi-vis jackets to assist. Mobility parking is on Beasley Ave for valid permit holders (first-come, first-served), with very limited overflow. A small accessible viewing platform in the south-west corner is available for accessible ticket holders and one companion.

Payment
Go Media Stadium Mt Smart operates a largely cashless system for food, drinks, and merchandise. Card and mobile payments are accepted, though some ATMs are available on-site for backup.

Post-Match

For a relaxed post-match finish, head to Kardella Café & Bar, The Penrose Tavern, or nearby cafés and eateries along Dominion Road. These options are perfect for grabbing a casual bite, a drink, or coffee after the game without leaving the area.