SkyCity will, for the first time, welcome visitors to The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) on Saturday, 21 February 2026. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the NZICC’s impressive spaces and experience the scale of a landmark venue set to shape the future of events, business, culture, and tourism in Aotearoa.
The building will be open for general ticketed admission walkthroughs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Step inside the purpose-built NZICC to experience the scale, design and flexibility of New Zealand’s largest and most versatile conference, exhibition and entertainment venue, ahead of a vibrant lineup of international and domestic events kicking off with New Zealand band Six60 in February.
A series of curated speaker sessions will run throughout the day, offering insight into the journey behind the NZICC. Held at ten past each hour, each session will feature a different speaker, including the architects and artists who shaped the NZICC, members of the construction team, and Executive Chef Rob Cullen. The sessions will explore how the venue came together and what it takes to deliver and operate a venue of this scale.
Food and beverage will be available for purchase from the NZICC café and kiosks throughout the day. The engagement stations will offer a first taste of the NZICC food experience, with a curated menu by Executive Chef Rob Cullen using local, seasonal ingredients, including his iconic cheese roll.
“Opening the doors of the NZICC and welcoming guests marks the moment we’ve been working towards”, says Prue Daly, General Manager NZICC “The Open Day is a chance to experience the NZICC, shaped by the contribution of many people over time, and now ready to be brought to life through events, food and experiences.”
The Public Open Day is free to attend, with registration required via https://nzicc.co.nz/events/
