Improvements to FMG Stadium Waikato’s Gate 1 are underway.

Gate 1 is on the Tristram St side of the stadium, and one of its busiest access points.

The upgrade will see a concrete concourse replace the existing gravel carpark, a small stage constructed for pre-match entertainment, flag and banner poles installed, and new landscaping.

Sean Murray, the H3 Director, says the upgrade has emerged from the successful naming rights sponsorship arrangement.

“We have a very positive relationship with our partner FMG, and the funding of the upgrade has been made possible through their support of the stadium,” Mr Murray says.

“The upgrade has also been backed by Splice Construction, which has also made a contribution to the project and is undertaking the work required.”

The majority of the costs of the upgrade have been borne by the stadium’s partner organisations, with a small contribution from existing H3 budgets.

Mr Murray says improving the Gate 1 environment has been identified by H3 as an opportunity to improve the entry experience for customers attending matches at the venue.

The work to improve Gate 1 will be completed before the inaugural Hamilton Sevens in February 2018.