Tests have been played at Eden Park since 1929-30 and the ground hosted New Zealand's first Test victory, against West Indies in 1955-56. But it is also the scene of a dark day in New Zealand Test cricket history when, on 28 March 1955, the hosts collapsed to their lowest Test score - 26 all out - against England. Cricket is not the only sport played there; there's rugby union, too. And it was an agreement with the rugby administrators which allowed development after the ground was troubled by financial difficulties and flooding in its infancy.
The pavilion is steeped in tradition, contrasting with two massive modern grandstands which push the capacity over 40,000. All stands have covered and uncovered seating. The humid and sub-tropical conditions combine to produce wickets that assist slow and spin bowlers. The ground resembles a baseball diamond, which can flummox visiting captains in their field placement.