After two decades, Tennis Auckland's roof will finally be built

Tennis Auckland says a roof of its centre court used for the ASB Classic will be completed by July next year.

Nearly 20 years after the concept of a roof at its Parnell headquarters was first mooted, the finish line is in place following the appointment of a construction partner.

Fabritecture NZ Ltd, will design and build the new fabric canopy roof over the Manuka Doctor Arena, with a staged construction beginning later this year.

The ASB Classic - which is a leg on the ATP and WTA tours - be played under the new cover for the first time in 2028.

The update has been welcomed by Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown.

"A roof over the centre-court is crucial if the tournament is to retain and build on its international reputation and continue to provide a marvelous spectacle for fans from over the country to come to enjoy in our great city."

It will have a capacity of 3500 for tennis, although that could stretch to 4000 for other events.

Auckland Tennis chief executive Rohan West said a roof "changes everything".

"It protects the ASB Classic from rain delays and cancellations and gives players the conditions they expect from a modern tour stop," he said.

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