Invercargill stadium named finalist for two national venue awards

ILT Stadium Southland in Invercargill has been named a finalist in two categories at the 2026 Entertainment Venues Association New Zealand Awards.

The venue is up for Medium Venue of the Year. General manager Jo Hutton is a finalist for Team Leader of the Year.

Hutton told The Star that the nominations reflect the stadium's ongoing work to host sports, entertainment, and community events. She described the result as a team effort.

"We are so proud of what ILT Stadium Southland does for our community day in and day out an both these finalist nods are the definition of a team effort," Hutton said.

She credited the staff's care for the building and support from local residents and funders for the venue's condition. Hutton said the stadium now serves as a multi-purpose space, a shift from its earlier reputation as strictly an indoor sports arena.

"Our team loves our stadium and so does our community . . you walk in and it still feels like a new venue because, through the support of our generous funders and incredible community, we continually invest back into it," she said.

Karen Poff, board chair of Stadium Southland Limited, said Hutton's nomination was deserved. Poff cited Hutton's energy and commitment to the community as key factors in the venue's performance.

"Her leadership, energy, and genuine commitment to our people and community have played a huge part in the continued success of ILT Stadium Southland," Poff said.

The EVANZ will announce the winners at its annual ceremony in Christchurch on December 2.