The Wellington Phoenix will open their new A-League campaign at home to the Brisbane Roar on October 13, giving new coach Ernie Merrick a taste of what life will be like at the Cake Tin.
For the first time, the season will run until May with the grand final scheduledto be played on May 4.
Sydney FC and Newcastle will kick off the season on Friday, October 11, with a grand final rematch between Central Coast and West Sydney scheduled for the following day.
The venue of three Phoenix home games are yet to be confirmed, raising the possibility that all three will be played at other venues around the country.
Merrick was unveiled as Phoenix coach on Monday, taking over from Ricki Herbert after the club finished last season with the wooden spoon.
