Media Release: Semenoff Stadium Joins Hāpai Access Card Scheme to Enhance Accessibility

15 August 2025 (Northland Events Centre 2021 Trust)

Northland Events Centre (2021) Trust is pleased to announce that Semenoff Stadium has joined the Hāpai Access Card scheme as part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the customer experience of visitors with disabilities.  

The Hāpai Access Card, established by the Hāpai Foundation, aims to simplify access to venues and businesses across New Zealand for individuals with disabilities or special access needs. The card features nine icons representing common barriers, enabling businesses to better understand and meet the needs of cardholders.

"With over a third of Northland's population identifying as having a disability, our team recognised the importance of being well-trained in understanding and addressing various accessibility needs," said Brent Markwick, Chief Executive of Northland Events Centre (2021) Trust. "The Hāpai Access Card was presented at a recent EVANZ industry conference and we saw this as a great initiative to introduce into our venue. Our staff, along with key Northland Rugby staff, security and ushers have been trained and are now equipped to recognise these needs and respond appropriately to ensure a welcoming experience for all visitors."

To obtain a Hāpai Access Card, individuals with disabilities can apply online, providing evidence of the barriers they face in daily life. The card, which reflects the social model of disability and the United Nations' definition of disability, will then display the relevant icons indicating each person’s specific access requirements. This approach allows staff to anticipate and meet the needs of cardholders without the need for further explanation.

The Hāpai Access Card has been making a significant impact since its introduction - improving accessibility for over two hundred thousand disabled individuals in the UK since 2013 and in New Zealand since 2020.

To support the community, Semenoff Stadium has a limited number of free Hāpai Access Card coupons, usually priced at $30. These coupons are available at the stadium's reception or email events@nect2021.co.nz.

For more information about the Hāpai Access Card icons, please visit Icon Guide | Hāpai Access Card. To apply for a card, visit How To Apply | Hāpai Access Card. To learn more about Hāpai at Semenoff Stadium, visit Hāpai Access Card - Semenoff Stadium.