USA & Canada to face-off in New Zealand for the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic

The 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will be touring New Zealand in June for three high-intensity games between world famous rivals, USA and Canada.

After successful Australian events in 2015, 2016 and 2017, the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will now thrill New Zealand fans with games in Auckland (Spark Arena), Wellington (Westpac Stadium) and Queenstown (Queenstown Ice Arena) with tickets on sale from 12noon today.

International ice hockey was last seen in New Zealand in 2011 when USA and Canada played a three game exhibition series, the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will give spectators the chance to witness world-class level games for the first time in seven years.

The 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will be the first international ice hockey game played in Wellington and excitingly for Westpac Stadium, this is the first time in the Southern Hemisphere that an outdoor ice hockey game has been held at a major stadium.

The teams from USA and Canada will feature a collection of current ice hockey stars, illustrious veterans and promising emerging talents showcasing the toughness, speed and skill of international ice hockey.

Retired NHL legend and 2017 Ice Hockey Classic Canada captain, Mike Commodore, thoroughly enjoyed the Australian series this year.

“It was great to see so many passionate ice hockey fans come out and support us in Australia,” Commodore said.

“Touring Australia with the Ice Hockey Classic has been a highlight in my career and it will be fantastic to reignite the rivalry with USA New Zealand  for yet another year.”

TEG CEO, Geoff Jones, said it is great that fans have an opportunity to see world-class ice hockey in New Zealand.

“This is an experience not to be missed with renowned veterans and up and coming players competing in an incredibly high paced and exciting event,” Jones said.

“The Ice Hockey Classic is just one of the many international sporting events that TEG Live is proud to partner with as part of our incredibly diverse range of live entertainment.”

TLA Worldwide Chairman, Bart Campbell, is looking forward to offering fans a unique sporting experience.

“The past three years have proven that there is an appetite for world-class ice hockey here in Australasia,” Campbell said.

“Now crowds in Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown will have the chance to be immersed in the Ice Hockey Classic atmosphere, enjoying everything from the fast paced game play to the cheers of passionate fans.”

The dates for the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic are as follows:

Auckland – Spark Arena:                                  Friday 22 June, 2018                 www.ticketmaster.co.nz
Wellington – Westpac Stadium:                        Saturday 23 June, 2018             www.ticketek.co.nz
Queenstown – Queenstown Ice Arena:             Thursday 28 June, 2018             www.ticketek.co.nz 

As well as showcasing the highest quality ice hockey, the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will raise awareness and funds for the STOPCONCUSSIONS Foundation.

STOPCONCUSSIONS is a not-for-profit concussion and neurotrauma awareness and education platform founded by former European star, Kerry Goulet, and ex-NHL stars, Keith and Wayne Primeau.

Tickets for the 2018 Ice Hockey Classic will be available to purchase from 12noon, Monday 18 December, 2017.