Seddon Park, Hamilton: New Zealand’s Test and One-Day Venue

Overview

Seddon Park is Hamilton’s main cricket ground and the home of Northern Districts, one of New Zealand’s six major domestic associations. The ground is named after Richard Seddon, a former Prime Minister of New Zealand. It has also been known by the sponsored name Westpac Park.

It has hosted Test matches, one-day internationals and Twenty20 internationals, and also matches from the 2015 men’s World Cup, which New Zealand co-hosted with Australia.

Pitch and conditions

The pitch is often considered one of the better batting surfaces in New Zealand, with good carry and a dry, hard feel. Fast bowlers can still find some movement early, and spinners can be useful in the later days of a Test. Hamilton’s weather can be mild, but overcast conditions help swing bowlers.

Atmosphere

Spectators often sit on the grass banks surrounding the field, giving the ground a relaxed feel. The pavilions and stands are modest compared with the largest stadiums, which suits the intimate nature of cricket in a city of this size.

Place in New Zealand cricket

Seddon Park is a regular fixture in the home summer for touring teams. It also stages domestic matches for Northern Districts in the Plunket Shield and white-ball competitions, with the Northern Brave men’s and Northern Spirit women’s sides using it as a base.

Its mix of competitive pitches and friendly crowds has helped it stay popular with both players and supporters.