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New Plymouth's recently reopened Stadium Taranaki has enabled inclusion and accessibility for all patrons, ensuring that fans with hearing loss can enjoy the same immersive experience as everyone else at the venue.

With upgraded West and East stands, improved seismic resilience and scalable facilities, part of the redevelopment included installation of Auri technology - by Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, and powered by Auracast.

As reported by AVNetwork, the original plan involved deploying a traditional hearing loop system, which has long been a reliable solution for direct audio access. 

However, as the East Stand was added to the scope and the complexity of the infrastructure increased, the practicality of installing a loop system became a challenge. With multiple zones, large spaces and a need for flexible coverage, the team sought a future-focused alternative that could deliver equal access - without introducing technical or architectural constraints.

New Zealand-based integration firm, Provision Technologies, partnered with Jands - a distributor of audio, video, lighting, and broadcasting technologies throughout Australia and New Zealand - to evaluate and model various assistive listening options for the East Stand, causeway, and event space. As the project evolved, so did the available technology. Jands introduced the client to Auri which is built around Auracast broadcasting.

Auri allowed the venue to deliver the same direct audio experience as a hearing loop - without the complexity of under-floor cabling or amplifier arrays. Instead, it uses Bluetooth Low Energy to broadcast clear, low-latency audio to users’ own Auracast-enabled hearing aids, earbuds, smartphones or dedicated receivers.

The final system installed at Stadium Taranaki comprises four Dante -enabled Auri transmitters - two covering the East Stand with more than 1,200 square metres of coverage, one serving the causeway, and another dedicated to the event space. In addition, 32 Auri receivers were supplied for the venue to offer on demand to visitors who require them. This project represents one of the first Auracast stadium installations in Australasia and marks a significant milestone in the deployment of accessible technology in public venues.

Unlike traditional assistive listening systems, which often rely on proprietary equipment and are confined to specific locations, Auracast is designed to work with all Auracast-compatible devices , expanding access to those who use hearing aids, earbuds, smartphones or AirPods.

Delivering this groundbreaking assistive listening solution was a true team effort, grounded in shared values around inclusion, innovation, and excellence in execution.

Commenting on the project, Jands NZ Account Development Manager at Jands NZ, Justin Marechal stated "provision excelled at meeting the client's needs and ensuring that they made an informed decision regarding the system to be used.

“By collaborating closely, we presented all available options and delivered a system that enables everyone to share in the excitement of live events - without limitations. It was a privilege to be on site with Provision during commissioning and testing with the IQP, and to witness this successful and inclusive outcome.”

Dylan Torr, AV Sales Consultant at Provision Technologies, added "this project was a perfect blend of innovation and collaboration.

“By prioritising accessibility from the start, we didn’t just upgrade a stadium - we redefined what it means to create an inclusive experience for every fan.”

Images: Stadium Taranaki has embraced assistive listening technology by Listen Technologies and Ampetronic. Credit: Listen Technologies/Ampetronic.

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