After 30 years of bringing world-class entertainment to Auckland, SkyCity is setting its sights on shaping the next era of entertainment in New Zealand.
Since opening its doors on 2 February 1996, SkyCity Auckland has welcomed more than 100 million visitors and has grown into the country’s largest tourism, leisure, and entertainment precinct.
Today, it employs more than 2,900 people from diverse backgrounds, with staff collectively speaking or writing over 60 languages, and recently celebrated 42 current staff members who have been with the company since its first year.
“Thirty years is an incredible milestone. During this time, we’ve developed into a vibrant precinct that includes the Sky Tower, a world-class casino, three hotels, 17 food and beverage outlets, a theatre, and the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC),” said SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge.
“Each year, we welcome around five million visitors to SkyCity Auckland, and that number is only set to grow with the opening of the NZICC on 11 February 2026. The venue is expected to attract 33,000 new international visitors annually, injecting more than NZD 90 million into the economy. We can't wait to share this magnificent building with the world as it’s set to be a game changer for Auckland and New Zealand.”
SkyCity is also looking to become the trusted local leader with the launch of regulated online casino gaming in New Zealand.
“Gaming is evolving in exciting ways, bringing together the best of in-person and digital experiences. While we aim to lead this change, our priority is ensuring our customers and communities are protected. Any move into a regulated online market would be built on strong consumer safeguards and SkyCity’s enduring commitment to responsible gambling, so the experience remains safe and enjoyable for everyone,” added Walbridge.
SkyCity said it was committed to continuing to make a meaningful impact on its communities. Over the last 30 years, SkyCity Auckland has distributed over NZD 66 million to more than 2,000 community organisations through the SkyCity Community Trusts, supporting everything from grassroots sport and local education initiatives to Māori and Pasifika youth leadership programmes.
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