The Eden Park Trust Board welcomes new Trustees: Hon Simon Bridges and Mrs Marama Royal, MNZM

The Eden Park Trust is pleased to welcome Hon Simon Bridges and Marama Royal, MNZM as Government-appointed Trustees to the Eden Park Trust Board.

Chair of the Eden Park Trust Board, Kereyn Smith, CNZM said the appointments bring valuable leadership and experience that will complement the expertise of the current Board and support the stadium’s ongoing role as a strategic asset for New Zealand and community asset for Auckland.

“We are delighted to welcome Hon Simon Bridges and Marama Royal, MNZM to the Board. Each brings a unique combination of leadership, insight, and commitment to public service. Together with our current Trustees, their appointments position the Board to continue delivering on Eden Park’s vision and responsibilities as New Zealand’s national stadium.

Hon Simon Bridges (Ngāti Maniapoto) is a former Cabinet Minister and current CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, with a background in law, infrastructure, and economic development. He is also Chair of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and holds several private and public governance roles.

“Simon brings a deep understanding of national infrastructure and commercial strategy, which will be invaluable as we consider Eden Park’s long-term sustainability, role in the region, and opportunities to serve a growing city,” said Ms Smith.

Marama Royal, MNZM is a respected leader with more than a decade of experience in governance and organisational leadership. She has chaired the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust since 2017, where she has championed kaupapa Māori outcomes and strengthened relationships across iwi, community, and government. Her strategic insight and deep cultural knowledge will further support the Board’s commitment to inclusive, community-led governance.

Marama’s longstanding commitment to whānau and community wellbeing, and her deep cultural knowledge and leadership, will further support our inclusive and forward-looking approach to governance,” said Ms Smith.

In addition to the new appointments, the Government has reappointed Chair Kereyn Smith, CNZM and Deputy Chair Bill Birnie, CNZM to the Eden Park Trust Board through to 2028, providing continuity and stability as the Trust advances key strategic priorities.

Ms Smith said the appointments come at a time of continued progress for the Trust as it works to deliver on key priorities – hosting world-class events, maintaining financial and environmental responsibility, enhancing community engagement, and progressing Stage 1 of Eden Park 2.1, a staged and future-focused upgrade of the stadium.

She also acknowledged the significance of Koituitanga—the partnership agreement between Eden Park Trust and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei—which continues to guide the Trust’s values and approach.

“Our relationship with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is central to who we are. We are proud to be guided by the principles of Koituitanga – manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga, and shared stewardship, and to welcome Trustees whose leadership reflects these values,” said Ms Smith.

Eden Park continues to evolve as a hybrid, multi-purpose venue that brings people together through sport, culture, entertainment and community, and showcases the very best of New Zealand on the world stage.