Forsyth Barr Stadium, New Zealand, features a lightweight ETFE roof that supports natural turf growth while providing full weather protection for major events.
Forsyth Barr Stadium
The roof spans a vast area with clear ETFE cushions that allow a high percentage of natural light to reach the turf. This transparency is essential for healthy grass growth and makes it possible for the venue to remain fully enclosed without switching to artificial turf.
Project Overview
New Zealand
Country
20588
m²
of ETFE
2011
Completed
Populous
Architects
At a Glance – ETFE at Forsyth Barr Stadium
- Large-span stadium roof built with transparent ETFE cushions
- High light transmission supports natural turf growth under cover
- Lightweight material reduced steel requirements and structural mass
- Provides full weather protection while keeping the space bright and open
- Enables a column-free interior suitable for sports and major events
- Designed, supplied, and installed by Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific
- Durable, low-maintenance roof suited to New Zealand’s climate
20,588 m²
of ETFE
A Roof That Redefines Stadium Design
Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin is known for being one of the world’s first large stadiums where a natural grass pitch grows under a permanent roof. Achieving this required a roofing material that could deliver high levels of daylight while keeping weather out – a challenge solved through a large-scale ETFE roof system.
High Transparency for Natural Grass Growth
The roof spans a vast area with clear ETFE cushions that allow a high percentage of natural light to reach the turf. This transparency is essential for healthy grass growth and makes it possible for the venue to remain fully enclosed without switching to artificial turf. The cushions also reduce glare and soften daylight, helping maintain a consistent and playable surface
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Angus Macleod
Technical Director | Australia & New Zealand
Lightweight Structure, Big Span
ETFE: High levels of daylight while keeping the weather out.
ETFE is extremely lightweight, which allowed the design team to create a wide-span roof using far less steel than a traditional glass alternative would require. This reduced structural demand enabled the stadium to achieve its long-span geometry with an efficient, streamlined support system.
The resulting interior volume is column-free, open, and well-suited for both sporting and entertainment events.
Visual Journey
Natural light for a natural turf pitch.
Click on the pictures to see the full size
Comfort and Weather Protection in a Challenging Climate
Dunedin’s climate can be rainy, windy, and cool throughout the year. The ETFE roof provides full weather protection while still maintaining a bright, outdoor-like atmosphere. Spectators benefit from consistent conditions, and events can continue without disruption – an important advantage for a multipurpose venue.
Designed and Delivered with Regional Expertise
Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific provided the ETFE system for the stadium roof, from the design phase through to installation. The cushions are permanently air-supported, ensuring stable performance, wind resistance, and long-term durability. ETFE’s low maintenance needs make it particularly suitable for a large venue where access for cleaning or repairs is limited.
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