Bay Oval

A premier cricket destination bringing international sport and community together

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New Zealand’s only ICC-rated timber cricket pavilion

Since opening in 2014, Bay Oval has established itself as the premier home of Bay of Plenty cricket and one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most beloved international cricket venues. Set within Mount Maunganui’s Blake Park, the 12,000-capacity ground brings spectators close to the action with an intimate scale suited to both international fixtures and community use, while capturing the region’s relaxed, beachside character.

Jasmax prepared the original masterplan in 2007, envisioning a range of facilities that would support training alongside international day-night matches, with outdoor nets, state-of-the-art lighting and high-performance wickets for club, representative and first-class levels. Beyond cricket, the venue functions as a community sports ground with regular junior soccer and rugby fixtures during winter months.

As the only ICC-rated timber cricket pavilion in New Zealand, Bay Oval demonstrates how sustainable materials can meet rigorous performance standards for international sporting facilities.

Stage 1: Carrus Pavilion (2013)

The first stage introduced an iconic pavilion with a glulam timber post and beam structure arranged in a distinctive radial pattern. The design drew inspiration from the site’s coastal context – positioned between the harbour and Port of Tauranga to the west and Pacific Ocean to the east – interpreting the modular efficiency of shipping containers. Hugging the sweeping curve of the oval’s boundary and emulating the refined lines of a willow cricket bat, the concrete-clad pavilion features field-side full-height glazing providing panoramic views across the pitch. Inside, specialist player facilities including changing rooms, recovery areas, and flexible lounges reflect this efficient, modular approach.

Stage 2: Craigs Investment Partners Pavilion (2025)

Stage 2 completes the architectural vision established in the masterplan, extending the venue to deliver premium hospitality experiences for cricket matches, corporate and community events, rugby fixtures and concerts. The design extends the radial geometry, timber structure and cantilevered roofline established in Stage 1. New amenities include a multi-purpose lounge, external terraces and expanded facilities that enhance capacity for elite sport and community events.

The completion of Bay Oval’s masterplan across two decades demonstrates exceptional long-term planning and sustained commitment to creating a world-class cricket venue that serves international cricket, community recreation and regional identity, extending its value well beyond match days.