Led by Turf Manager Blair Christiansen, the Eden Park Turf Team has been named a finalist in TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2026, with the team shortlisted in the Unsung Hero Award category.
Established in 2010, TheStadiumBusiness Awards recognise leadership, innovation and achievement in the delivery, operation and management of sports facilities globally. Eden Park is the only New Zealand venue recognised in this year’s awards.
This recognition reflects the teams’ expertise and the planning and commitment required to prepare and protect the hallowed turf at New Zealand’s national stadium, while enabling Eden Park to operate as a truly multi-purpose hybrid venue.
That capability will again be on display this weekend.
Across four days from Friday 27 March, Eden Park will host two nights of international football, a Super Rugby Pacific game which sees the Blues take on the Fijian Drua and a concert on the turf for 1,000 families featuring beloved children’s entertainer, Emma Memma. It is a powerful example of the ability and dedication of the Turf Team, whose work makes increased utilisation of the stadium possible.
The team plays a critical role in ensuring Eden Park can move between different event formats and sporting codes while maintaining the standards required of a world-class venue.
Eden Park CEO, Nick Sautner said the acknowledgement is a proud moment for both the team and the stadium.
“Our Turf Team is exceptional, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved. Their work allows Eden Park to operate at a level that is unique in New Zealand and rare globally.
“Increased utilisation of the stadium depends on the capability of our people, and our Turf Team is central to that. They are the reason we can move from football to rugby to community events and back again, all while maintaining a surface that meets the expectations of athletes, performers and fans alike.
“To have the Eden Park Turf Team named as the only New Zealand finalist is something we are all very proud of.”
Winners will be announced at TheStadiumBusiness Awardson Wednesday 3 June at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester.
