Auckland FC: Having it — Terrace Edition

Words: Julian Voo

Images: Julian Voo

I’ve always loved photography, but growing up in a small Malaysian town, the focus was more on science than the arts.

Life got busy, and I stepped away from it for a while. After moving to New Zealand and finding some stability, I picked up the camera again.

I started shooting local games, and around the same time, Auckland FC was announced in March 2024. It was the perfect moment to dive into football photography.

©Julian Voo/ Terrace Edition. Auckland FC.

My favourite match was definitely the first New Zealand derby between Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC.

It wasn’t just a game—it was the beginning of a new rivalry. The energy was unreal, with passionate fans, non-stop chants, and an atmosphere that felt like the future of football in New Zealand.

Capturing that emotion was unforgettable.

New Zealand’s football fans come from all over the world. Many of us grew up supporting small hometown clubs, so when Auckland FC launched, it reignited that love.

The ex-pat Brits obviously bring something to the mix, having grown up with their own terrace culture. You’ll see the Welsh Exiles’ flag with their bucket hats. But people pop up from different countries, bringing their own traditions and adding to the vibe.

The Port (our active supporters’ group) have brought together chants, culture, and energy from different cultures to create something unique. We play on the connection to the sea, with Auckland centred on two huge harbours, it’s a country of the water as well as the land.

©Julian Voo/ Terrace Edition. Auckland FC Welsh Exiles.

The support keeps growing every week, and the stands don’t stop moving for 90 minutes. A lot of kids are buying into it, which will provided futiure generations of support.

New Zealand’s terrace scene is a blend of global influences, shaped by fans from every corner of the world.

Football’s always played second to rugby, but that’s changing fast. It now leads in participation, crowds are growing, and New Zealand just made the World Cup.

Young people are getting into it, older fans are reconnecting, and with Auckland FC in the mix, the momentum is only building.