Southland stadium earns double nomination

ILT Stadium Southland has secured two finalist nominations for the 2026 Entertainment Venues Association New Zealand Awards. The venue is a candidate for Medium Venue of the Year, while general manager Jo Hutton is up for Team Leader of the Year. These selections recognize the facility's management and personnel within the national entertainment sector.

Hutton attributed the nominations to the team's daily operations and strong community backing. She stated that the group cares for the venue and that local support helps maintain its condition. Hutton noted that the stadium feels new to visitors because generous funders and the community allow for continuous reinvestment. She described the facility as multi-purpose, calling that versatility its biggest strength.

The stadium's leadership views the nomination as evidence of growth beyond its traditional role. Hutton said the venue has historically been known as a premier indoor sporting location. However, she argued that the current recognition shows the site has evolved into a broader entertainment hub. The board chair, Karen Poff, supported Hutton's candidacy, describing her selection as thoroughly deserved.

Poff highlighted Hutton's leadership and energy as key drivers of the stadium's success. She noted that Hutton's commitment to the staff and the community has been central to the venue's continued performance. The EVANZ Awards celebrate excellence in event management across the country. The winners for both categories will be announced at an annual ceremony in Christchurch on December 2.

The nomination process evaluates venues based on their operational standards and community impact. ILT Stadium Southland represents the Southland region in these national competitions. The dual nomination places both the physical facility and its leadership under national scrutiny for this year's awards cycle.