Senior writer Mary Anne Gill was in Dunedin and took the chance to visit the Sports Hall of Fame for a preview of what Cambridge can expect next year.
Behind closed doors lies New Zealand’s sporting history. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
It was one of the busiest weekends in Dunedin – Otago University graduations at the Town Hall and thousands of visitors from around New Zealand in town.
Knowing the Sports Hall of Fame is moving from Dunedin Railway Station to the Velodrome in Cambridge, we popped in for a look – but the doors were shut.
We should have checked the attraction’s hours – 10am to 3pm – but graduation ceremonies and the social activities around them kept us occupied. We arrived 30 minutes too late.
The current home of the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, Dunedin’s historic railway station. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
The tired looking Sports Hall of Fame hints at the end of its life in Dunedin’s historic railway station. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
The upstairs entrance to the Sports Hall of Fame – closed to tourists visiting Dunedin’s historic railway station. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
A lost opportunity for us, but one you suspect the people behind its move to the Waikato are unlikely to miss.
After 26 years in Dunedin, the hall is embarking on a bold new chapter. It will move to the Waikato next year and transform from a traditional museum into a modern, interactive arena.
The vision is clear: this won’t just be a place to look at trophies behind glass. The new Hall of Fame will be a living, breathing celebration of sport – a space where legends are honoured, today’s champions are celebrated, and tomorrow’s athletes inspired.
Visitors will encounter immersive storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and hands-on experiences.
Construction begins soon and is expected to be complete by the end of 2026. The Velodrome’s existing footprint will be reimagined to house the hall, while curators and designers work closely with community partners to preserve the integrity of memorabilia.
Transition manager Tony Smith, who brings 25 years of leadership in the cycling industry, is steering the project.
“This is about honouring the legacy while creating something fresh and exciting,” he said. “We want every visitor – whether they’re a lifelong sports fan or a curious child – to walk away inspired.”
Entry to the Sports Hall of Fame. Photo: Artists impression
The new Hall of Fame will be woven into the Velodrome’s concourse and wall space with large-format screens broadcasting stories, gala highlights, and educational content.
There will also be a high-energy infield zone and education programmes.
The New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1990 as part of New Zealand’s 150th anniversary when 75 athletes were inducted into the then Wellington-based hall.
Among them were Waikato jockey Linda Jones, softballer Kevin Herlihy and King Country rugby legend Colin Meads.
Added later from Cambridge were rower Rob Waddell, cyclist Sarah Ulmer and equestrian Mark Todd.
Today there are 160 members.
The NZ Sports Hall of Fame Board will remain independent and continue to select honoured members.
Cambridge’s Sarah Ulmer after her gold medal winning ride at the Athens Olympics features in this artist’s impression of the Sporting Hall of Fame at the Velodrome. Photo: Supplied.
