Tauranga will proudly open New Zealand’s international cricket season with a high-energy T20 series against Australia, followed by an ODI against England and a five-day Test match against the West Indies. The last game for the Tauranga season will be an electrifying double-header, as both the BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS take on South Africa’s national men’s and women’s teams.
From the first ball to the last, summer begins right here at one of the world’s most scenic and beloved cricket venues, with these matches expected to draw cricket fans from across Aotearoa and around the world.
“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."
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.
The iconic Bay Oval was recently named one of the top grounds in the world to watch test cricket. With its lush grassy banks, relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, and Mauao as a backdrop, it’s a venue that brings fans closer to the action, where unforgettable cricket memories are made.
“The Bay Oval is a huge asset to our city and a testament to Tauranga City Council, Bay Oval Trust, TECT Community Trust and the private sector working together to create a world-class venue,” says Mahé.
Bay Oval General Manager, Kelvin Jones, adds, “Bay Oval continues to grow its reputation as an internationally recognised cricket venue, not just for the players but for fans too,”
“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.”
Highlights of the upcoming international fixtures in Tauranga:
- Three T20 internationals against Australia in the first week of October mark the Australian men’s team debut at Bay Oval and provide a perfect family-friendly experience during the school holidays.
- A Labour Weekend ODI against England on Sunday, 26 October, is set to be a crowd favourite, following last year’s sell-out matches. 99% of local attendees surveyed agreed, hosting these events makes Tauranga a more enjoyable place to live.
- A 5-day Test match against the West Indies from 18 to 22 December offers an exciting start to the holiday season.
- A double-header against South Africa on 15 March 2026, featuring both the WHITE FERNS and BLACKCAPS, for a spectacular day of cricket.
Tauranga City Council, TECT Community Trust, and Bay Oval have worked together to secure this summer’s international cricket schedule, demonstrating the impact of local partnerships in bringing major events to the region.
TECT Community Trust are excited to see Bay Oval host such a high-profile series.
“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, and be part of an action-packed summer of international cricket in Tauranga.
A group of keen Mount Maunganui Intermediate cricketers at Bay Oval this morning with Tauranga City councillors, excited to see their favourite players in action this summer.
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