Information
Landmark: Kings Park StadiumCity: Durban
Country: South Africa
Continent: Africa
Kings Park Stadium, Durban, South Africa, Africa
Kings Park Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located in the city of Durban, South Africa.
It serves as the primary venue for rugby union and association football matches.
Visual Characteristics
The stadium features a circular design with a seating capacity of approximately 55,000. The exterior is primarily constructed from concrete and steel, with sections of green seating visible from the exterior. The playing surface is natural grass.
Location & Access Logistics
Kings Park Stadium is situated approximately 3 kilometers north of Durban's central business district. Access is via the M4 freeway, specifically using the Kings Park Avenue off-ramp. Ample parking is available within the stadium precinct, with designated areas for general public and VIP access. Public transport options include various bus routes that service the area, with stops located within a short walking distance of the stadium entrances. The nearest train station is Durban Station, located in the city center, requiring a taxi or bus transfer to reach the stadium.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The stadium was originally constructed in 1928 and has undergone several renovations and expansions since then. Its primary purpose was to host sporting events, particularly rugby union, for which it remains a significant venue.
Key Highlights & Activities
The stadium hosts professional rugby union matches, including those of the Sharks team. It also serves as a venue for association football (soccer) games and occasional concerts. Guided tours of the stadium facilities are available on non-match days.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are located throughout the stadium seating areas and concourses. Shade is provided by the stadium's roof structure over a significant portion of the seating. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the stadium. Food and beverage vendors operate within the stadium concourses during events.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal viewing of matches, attend during the rugby or football seasons, typically from February to November. For stadium tours, it is advisable to check the official stadium schedule for availability, as tours are often suspended on event days. The best time of day for photography of the stadium exterior is late afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky.
Facts & Legends
The stadium was the site of the first-ever Super Rugby final played in South Africa in 1996. A local anecdote suggests that the stadium's acoustics are so precise that a dropped pin can be heard from the highest seats during quiet moments.
Nearby Landmarks
- Moses Mabhida Stadium: 0.8km South-West
- Durban Botanic Gardens: 1.5km West
- Natal Mounted Rifles Memorial: 0.3km North-East
- Mitchell Park Zoo: 1.2km West
- uShaka Marine World: 2.5km South-East