Tauranga is padding up to host a memorable season as four of the world’s most iconic cricketing nations – Australia, England, the West Indies, and South Africa – head to Bay Oval for a thrilling summer of international cricket.
Tauranga will open New Zealand’s international cricket season with a T20 series against Australia, followed by an One Day International against England and a five-day Test match against the West Indies. The season wraps up with an electrifying double-header, as both the Blackcaps and White Ferns take on South Africa’s national men’s and women’s teams.
“Welcoming four of the world’s top cricketing nations to Bay Oval is an exciting time for Tauranga,” says Mayor, Mahé Drysdale.
“This summer’s international fixtures will not only deliver world-class sport but also highlight our city’s unique hospitality, stunning setting, and growing reputation as a premier destination for major events.
“Having this calibre of international cricket right in our own backyard is a huge win for Tauranga. It’s a celebration of community, culture, and cricket, and a chance to deliver real value for our city and economy.”
The Mayor said past event evaluations highlight how hosting international events attracts visitors and generates positive returns.
A 2023 report commissioned by Tauranga City Council and the Bay Oval Trust revealed the four-day Blackcaps versus England Test match generated over $4 million in visitor spending, delivering an estimated net benefit of $1.9 million to the city. The event was responsible for more than 21,000 visitor nights, with Tauranga hosting 8,007 visitors, including 5,610 domestic and 2,397 international visitors.
“Bay Oval continues to grow its reputation as an internationally recognised cricket venue, not just for the players but for fans too,” said Bay Oval General Manager, Kelvin Jones.
“Securing these matches is a milestone achievement and reflects the work invested in developing the ground and facilities. The new pavilion has elevated the venue, enhancing the experience for players and spectators,” he said.
“Events like these bring more than just entertainment – they foster community connection, vibrancy, and bring significant economic benefits,” says TECT Chairperson, Mark Arundel.
“We’re proud to support Bay Oval, a venue that delivers value to locals and helps showcase our region on the international stage.”
Cricket fans are encouraged to sign up to Cricket Nation for early access to tickets, which go on sale in August.
New Zealand Cricket 2025-26 schedule:
Wednesday, 1 October 2025, 7.15pm – 1st T20I, BLACKCAPS v Australia
Friday, 3 October 2025, 7.15pm 2025 – 2nd T20I, BLACKCAPS v Australia
Saturday, 4 October 2025, 7.15pm – 3rd T20I, BLACKCAPS v Australia
Sunday, 26 October 2025, 2pm – 1st ODI, BLACKCAPS v England
Thursday, 18 – Monday, 22 December 2025, 11am – 3rd Test, BLACKCAPS v West Indies
Sunday, 15 March 2026 (T20I Double Header) 2.45pm and 7.15pm – 1st T20I WHITE FERNS v South Africa, 1st T20I BLACKCAPS v South Africa
For more information, please visit: New Zealand Cricket, Bay Oval.
