2023 Women’s World Cup: The Stadiums – Waikato Stadium
Waikato Stadium will welcome a third FIFA World Cup to Hamilton/Kirikiriroa- the heart of the Waikato region (approx. 120km south of Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau), following the FIFA U-17 World Cup of 2008 and the FIFA U-20 World Cup of 2015.
Waikato Stadium has a rich history that spans 100 years and is an impressive international sports stadium with a full capacity of 25000 people. The redevelopment of Waikato Stadium was completed in 2002 and continues to build on the proud history of the grounds it stands on by hosting a range of top-quality sports fixtures and events each year.
Māori culture and practices play an important role at Waikato Stadium. The stadium has a unique history, it sits on the ancient Ngāti Wairere Pa and burial grounds. The stadium features the carved Whatanoa Gateway (waharoa) to commemorate the ancient traditions and landmarks of the Waikato Tainui tribe and links the past with the future.
Where is Waikato Stadium?
Waikato Stadium is located a short walk from Hamilton’s city centre. It is easily accessible via bus, train or by walking from the city centre.
Specific Waikato Stadium Information:
- How to get to Waikato Stadium
- Waikato Stadium Accessibility Information
- Waikato Stadium Security and Entry Information
FIFA World Cup 2023 fixtures
Five group matches will head to Hamilton’s Waikato stadium during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023, kicking off with the Group C battle between Zambia and 2011 champions Japan.
Fellow former winners Norway are in action on 25 July when they take on Group A rivals Switzerland before Portugal and Vietnam do battle two days later in Group E.
Zambia will return to the venue for the pool’s final matchday to face Costa Rica, while Argentina-Sweden of Group G rounds off the stadium’s hosting duties on 2 August.
Waikato Stadium has already played a part at this year’s tournament. In February 2023, the ground hosted two sets of Inter-confederation play-offs which saw Portugal and Panama claim their place at the tournament.
Waikato Stadium: Facts, Figures & General Information
Stadium Map
Capacity*: 16,271 Opened: 2002
General Information:
Waikato Stadium is a cashless venue therefore spectators purchasing food and beverage options, as well as merchandise, can do so using card payments only.
The main merchandise store will be located within the stadium grounds, just inside Gate 4
Public Gates open two (2) hours prior to kick off for all games at Waikato Stadium.
We encourage you to arrive early to enjoy the entertainment in the stadium precinct and for smooth entry into your seat.
If you have a Hospitality ticket, your entry gates are Gate 4. Staff will help navigate you to your hospitality space from there.
If you need any assistance while at the stadium, please see any of the friendly staff or FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 volunteers.
