Stadium Maintains Immersive Audio Experience for Fans with Hearing Impairments Through Specialized Technology
**Stadium Taranaki Embraces Innovative Hearing Solution with Auracast**
Stadium Taranaki in New Zealand has taken a significant step towards enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for visitors, particularly those with hearing loss, with the installation of Auracast, a cutting-edge assistive listening technology. This groundbreaking development marks one of the first Auracast stadium installations in Australasia, positioning the venue as a trailblazer in the region [1][2].
The redevelopment of Stadium Taranaki aimed to ensure an inclusive experience for all, and the decision to deploy Auri by Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, powered by Auracast, was a future-focused alternative to the original plan of a traditional hearing loop system. The complexity of the infrastructure made the latter impractical, leading to the adoption of Auri, which delivers a direct audio experience without the need for under-floor cabling or amplifier arrays [2].
The implementation of Auracast at Stadium Taranaki includes four Dante-enabled transmitters, covering the East Stand, causeway, event space, and more, with a total coverage area of over 12,000 square feet (1,200 square meters). Thirty-two Auri receivers have also been supplied for on-demand use by visitors [2].
Provision Technologies, a New Zealand integration firm, played a crucial role in this project, partnering with Jands to evaluate and model various assistive listening options for the redeveloped stadium. Jands introduced the client to Auri, built around Auracast broadcasting, and Provision Technologies excelled at meeting the client's needs, ensuring an informed decision regarding the system to be used [3].
The collaboration between Provision Technologies, Jands, and the client was grounded in shared values of inclusion, innovation, and excellence, resulting in a successful commissioning and testing of the system with the Independent Quality Panel (IQP) [3].
Auri uses Bluetooth Low Energy to broadcast clear, low-latency audio to users' own devices, making it accessible not only to those who currently use hearing aids but also to the estimated 80% of people who need hearing aids but don't have them [1]. This broadens inclusivity for fans with hearing loss in stadium environments.
The installation of Auracast at Stadium Taranaki is a game-changer in making live sporting and entertainment experiences more inclusive by leveraging modern, widely compatible wireless audio technology to meet the needs of people with hearing loss broadly and conveniently [1]. This initiative redefines what it means to create an inclusive experience for every fan.
Hearing New Zealand, an organization advocating for assistive listening since 1932, supports this move and promotes the venue as a leader in accessible experiences [1][2]. The project's historic milestone for New Zealand and its wider national importance was highlighted during the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand with support from Bluetooth SIG, FIFA, and the New Zealand government [1].
In conclusion, the installation of Auracast at Stadium Taranaki represents a significant stride in the realm of accessibility and inclusivity in sports and entertainment venues, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that everyone can share in the excitement of live events without limitations.
- The installation of Auracast technology at Stadium Taranaki has expanded accessibility for sports and event attendees, introducing innovative features like Bluetooth Low Energy for direct audio streaming to personal devices.
- The inclusion of Auracast in the redevelopment of Stadium Tarananki positions it as a pioneer in the Australasian region, showcasing its commitment to employing advanced technology to enhance the experience for all visitors, especially those with hearing loss.
