Originally published in Waikato Times, Tuesday 13 January 2026.
By Paora Manuel.
The Waikato Regional Theatre will be called the BNZ Theatre for the next five years, as part of a partnership between the bank and Live Nation NZ.
The Waikato Regional Theatre will be known as the BNZ Theatre for the next five years, as part of a naming rights deal with Live Nation NZ.
The Tuesday announcement comes ahead of the regional theatre’s public opening on January 19.
BNZ chief executive Dan Huggins said the partnership reflected the bank’s long-standing commitment to the Waikato.
“We’re proud to support BNZ Theatre – Waikato’s premier new arts and entertainment venue located in the heart of Hamilton city,” Huggins said.
“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 said the theatre would help create jobs, support local tourism and benefit hospitality and accommodation businesses, while also expanding access to arts and live entertainment.
Live Nation Australia and New Zealand senior vice president and head of media and sponsorship Kristy Rosser said the partnership marked a new chapter for the venue.
“From January 2026, its diverse programming will help shape a dynamic cultural hub that attracts local and international performers,” she said.
The theatre will host a civic opening from January 19 to 21 with the world premiere of To the Stars / Ki Ngā Whetū, involving hundreds of local performers.
Public performances begin on January 23 with Māori soul singer TEEKS, followed by Sir Dave Dobbyn, Bic Runga and international artist Sophie Ellis-Bextor.