Discover Newcastle’s coolest experience!

Source: HISS

Hunter Ice Skating Stadium is more than just an ice rink - it’s one of Newcastle’s most unique entertainment and sporting destinations, bringing together families, friends, athletes and sports fans all year round.

Known by locals as HISS, the venue has become a community hub where people of all ages can enjoy recreation, competition and unforgettable experiences on the ice.

Located in Warners Bay, HISS is home to public skating sessions, school holiday activities, birthday parties and elite-level ice hockey action. Whether you’re stepping onto the ice for the first time or cheering from the stands, there’s always something happening at Newcastle’s coolest venue.

Public skating sessions are a favourite for visitors looking for a fun and active experience. Thanks to Crowd DJ, skaters can help choose the soundtrack to their session, creating an atmosphere filled with pop hits, nostalgic throwbacks and party favourites. Combined with colourful lighting and a lively atmosphere, every session feels like an event.

Friday nights at HISS are especially popular, with Friday Night Skate transforming the rink into an ice disco experience. Featuring upbeat music, disco lighting and plenty of energy, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend with family or friends. Whether you’re confidently skating laps or carefully finding your balance, Friday Night Skate offers a fun night out for all skill levels.

If you’d rather stay off the ice while the kids burn some energy, the HISS café provides the perfect place to relax. Serving hot food, coffee and snacks, the café overlooks the rink so parents and spectators can stay warm while still enjoying the action.

Looking for the ultimate birthday party venue? HISS birthday parties remain one of Newcastle’s most popular celebration options. Fully catered party packages take the stress out of planning, with dedicated party rooms, food options, skating sessions and entertainment included. Kids can skate with friends, dance to their favourite songs and enjoy plenty of fun on the ice while parents sit back and enjoy the celebration.

HISS is also proudly home to the Newcastle Northstars, one of Australia’s most successful ice hockey clubs and a powerhouse of the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL). The Northstars have built a passionate following over more than two decades and continue to deliver one of the Hunter’s most exciting live sporting experiences.

The 2026 AIHL season has already seen huge crowds pack HISS for Northstars home games, with fans filling the venue to witness the speed, skill and intensity of Australia’s highest level of ice hockey.

From crowd-roaring goals to fast-paced action, the atmosphere inside the rink is electric from puck drop to final siren.

Tickets for Northstars games are available, but get in fast – they sell out ahead of gamedays: northstars.thundertix.com. Beyond elite competition, HISS also plays an important role in supporting grassroots ice sports across the region.

Monday and Wednesday nights feature Newcastle Ice Hockey League games, with free entry for spectators and the café and bar open throughout the evening. On weekends, the Newcastle Northstars Ice Hockey Club representative teams compete across nine divisions, helping develop the next generation of local players.

School holidays are another busy time at HISS, with additional public skating sessions running throughout the break. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to stay active, try something new and enjoy a fun day out together.

Whether you’re chasing excitement on the ice, planning a birthday party, supporting local sport or simply looking for a familyfriendly activity, HISS offers something for everyone. With a welcoming atmosphere, a passionate community, and a year-round calendar of events, it’s easy to see why so many Novocastrians continue to return to the rink week after week.

For session times, event information and bookings, visit hiss.com.au.