An “unforgettable” series of events, including its first concert, has seen Bay Oval nominated as one of New Zealand’s best venues.

The Mount Maunganui ground has been named a finalist for Venue of the Year at the New Zealand Event Association Annual Event Awards.

The nomination comes after a string of events over the past 12 months.

They included its first large-scale concert, a sold-out Super Rugby Pacific fixture and a busy international cricket season.

Bay Oval general manager Kelvin Jones said it was honoured to be recognised alongside some of the best venues in the country.

Maximising the use of space was central to its success.

“Our submission featured an unforgettable run of events including the Fisher concert, Super Rugby Pacific clash, and international cricket, showcasing the versatility and atmosphere that makes Bay Oval such a special venue.”

Jones said the Super Rugby Pacific clash between the Chiefs and Western Force on Anzac Day 2025 marked a historic first for Bay Oval.

“The sold-out match brought top-tier transtasman rugby to Tauranga for the first time in over a decade, creating a powerful sense of occasion and community pride.

“The Oval’s adaptability was central to the event’s success, proving its versatility by reconfiguring from cricket ground to high-performance rugby arena.”

Bay Oval general manager Kelvin Jones and Tauranga-based Toby Burrows, who is director of Trademark Live. Photo / Brydie Thompson

The venue’s first major music event, headlined by Australian DJ Fisher, drew more than 20,000 fans to Tauranga in January.

Jones said it firmly positioned Bay Oval as a credible host for major concerts, with the event generating more than $4 million in visitor spending and a net economic and social benefit of $2.57m for the city.

“As a successful first-of-its-kind event held at Bay Oval, it strengthened the reputation of Tauranga as a destination for world-class live entertainment.”

The Fisher concert was also named a finalist for Music Event of the Year 2026.

Toby Burrows, director of Trademark Live, said the Tauranga-based promoter was “absolutely stoked” with the concert’s success.

“To be the first to use this incredible venue as a concert space was a long-term goal.

“We love delivering large-scale events in our home city, and it was amazing to see the city come alive for the weekend with such a buzz.”

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale said the city had every reason to be proud of Bay Oval’s recognition among New Zealand’s best venues.

Fisher performed at the Bay Oval in January. Photo / Anna Heath

“Bay Oval continues to show what’s possible when a great venue is matched with ambition, vision and strong collaboration.”

The venue’s “successful expansion” from a premier cricket ground to hosting major concerts and rugby was a significant step in its evolution, and the nomination reflected that achievement.

“It’s important that we make the most of what we have in a financially constrained environment, so seeing Bay Oval become more versatile and show it can be a world-class venue for a range of events really proves its value.”

He said Bay Oval’s ability to attract major events delivered wide-ranging benefits for the city.

“It supports our local economy, brings people together, creates a fantastic atmosphere, and reinforces Tauranga’s reputation as a leading events destination.”

Public voting for the event is now open until July 12, with winners announced at a gala dinner at Auckland’s NZ International Convention Centre in August.

NZEA Bay of Plenty finalists 2026:

Venue of the Year 2026 – Bay Oval – for Fisher concert, Super Rugby Pacific Game & International Cricket

Emerging Event Professional of the Year 2026 – Rose Kennedy, Rose’s Dining Table

Food, Beverage or Lifestyle Event of the Year 2026 – Chapel – A Zoncello Supperclub, Rose’s Dining Table and Tini Events

Local Government Event of the Year 2026 – Children’s Day 2026, Tauranga City Council

Major or Mega Event of the Year 2026 – Crankworx New Zealand 2026, Mountain Bike Events Limited

Music Event of the Year 2026 – Fisher at Bay Oval, Trademark Live

Marketing or Creative of the Year 2026 – Chapel – A Zoncello Supperclub, Rose’s Dining Table & Tini Events

For a full list of award winners, visit nzea.co.nz.