$5 million Government boost ensures Auckland’s historic tennis venue remains a world-class stage
For more than a century, Stanley Street has been the beating heart of New Zealand tennis — a stage where legends have served, rallied, and triumphed before generations of fans. Now, the country’s most iconic tennis arena is set for a major upgrade, with the Government confirming a $5 million investment towards a new Centre Court roof at Auckland’s Manuka Doctor Arena.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the funding, part of a new $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package, will secure the future of one of New Zealand’s most treasured sporting venues. She said Stanley Street has hosted at least a million spectators over the years, welcoming some of the sport’s biggest names including Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams.
The investment aims to future-proof the arena, expand the types of events that can be held there, and increase seating capacity, giving more New Zealanders the chance to experience top-level tennis.
A Century of Tennis Tradition
Established more than 100 years ago, the Stanley Street courts have witnessed New Zealand’s tennis story unfold — from wooden racquets and white attire to the modern ASB Classic, which attracts global stars in the lead-up to the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year.
For generations of Aucklanders, the venue has been more than a stadium — it’s a summer ritual. Families, volunteers, and tennis fans have filled its stands to cheer on both homegrown talent and international champions.
Serving Up the Future
The new Centre Court roof, part of a $15 million project co-funded by Tennis Auckland, will protect players and fans from Auckland’s unpredictable weather and allow a wider range of events to be hosted year-round. The upgrade will also expand seating capacity to provide more opportunities for fans to experience world-class sporting action.
Tennis Auckland plans to complete the project by 2027, ensuring the ASB Classic remains one of the standout tournaments on the Australasian summer calendar.
Minister Upston said the investment recognises both the venue’s heritage and its importance to Auckland’s economy and community life. The project marks the first infrastructure investment under the Government’s new events and tourism package, which aims to strengthen regional economies and enhance visitor experiences across the country.
As the ASB Classic prepares for another season, Stanley Street’s next chapter promises to blend its storied past with a state-of-the-art future — ensuring the sound of serves, rallies, and applause will continue to echo through the historic arena for decades to come.
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