The first match played there was an international rugby game in 1882 where New South Wales beat Wellington 14–2 drawing 5,000 spectators including then Governor Sir James Prendergast.

Newtown Park was selected as one of the Wellington training venues for use by national representative teams during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.

As part of preparations for hosting these events, the Wellington City Council made improvements to the Newtown Park facilities, including renovation of both turf fields, the installation of floodlights in the main arena, and upgrades of the showers and changing rooms.

[9][10] Newtown Park is the main venue for regional track and field meets managed by Athletics Wellington during the summer season.

[13] In January 2022, the North Island Colgate Games for children aged 7–14 were held at Newtown Park, with 1,200 athletes taking part.