After 14 years of unforgettable rugby moments, Apollo Projects Stadium (formerly Forsyth Barr Stadium) in Christchurch has officially closed its doors as a major rugby venue. The stadium, built as a temporary home in just 100 days following the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, hosted its final match on Friday night when the Crusaders faced the Fijian Drua. It was a bittersweet end to a venue that became a true fortress for South Island rugby.
Apollo Projects Stadium: A Symbol of Resilience
Constructed using recycled materials from New Zealand’s sporting past (including lights from Carisbrook and turf from Lancaster Park), the stadium quickly became one of the most unique and atmospheric rugby grounds in the country. It reconnected Christchurch with international rugby and served as home for the Crusaders and Canterbury for over a decade, hosting epic derbies, All Blacks Tests, and memorable Black Ferns performances.
All Blacks Record at Apollo Projects Stadium
The All Blacks played several memorable Tests at the venue. The last All Blacks Test there was in 2022, when Argentina stunned New Zealand 25-18 — the All Blacks’ first defeat in Christchurch in 24 years. Other highlights include a dominant 41-13 win over South Africa in 2016 and victories against Ireland (2012) and France (2013). Overall, the stadium was a tough place for visiting teams.
Crusaders & Canterbury Legacy
The Crusaders enjoyed incredible success at the stadium — 121 matches with 99 wins, including unbeaten home seasons in 2013 and 2018, and a perfect 19-0 record in home playoff games. For Canterbury in the NPC, it was equally dominant with 69 wins from 84 matches and multiple unbeaten home seasons. Fans will fondly remember moments like Mitch Hunt’s halfway drop goal, Macca Springer’s five-try haul, and thundering derbies against the Chiefs and Hurricanes.
What’s Next for Christchurch Rugby?
With Apollo Projects Stadium now closing, attention turns to the future of Test rugby in Christchurch. The new One New Zealand Stadium will host its first All Blacks Test on 4 July 2026 against France — a match that has already sold out in record time. The era of the “temporary” fortress is ending, but a new chapter is beginning.
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