Teenage golfing sensation Ko, also a nominee, could not attend as she is in Melbourne playing in the Australian Open.
She made a strong start to the tournament today, and was two shots off the lead at the close of play on the opening day.
All Black hooker Kevin Mealamu said it was great to see kiwis dominating world sport.
"I think it's a night to really celebrate what some of them have done.''
League's Shaun Johnson and girlfriend Phoebe Carr walked the red carpet. Johnson, playing in the Auckland NRL Nines from Saturday, said he would have a quiet night tonight.
Scott Dixon could not attend due to Indy Car commitments in the US.
Cricketer Chris Cairns and wife Melanie, and Warriors' co-owner Owen Glen arrived, as did All Black Ryan Crotty with All Black captain Richie McCaw.
McCaw said last year was a great year for New Zealand rugby.
"Nights like these you get to reflect on what you've achieved over the past year and all the hard work.''
McCaw said the field of finalists was a credit to New Zealand's strong sporting pedigree.
"I think as a little country we produce some pretty talented people.''
Rower and Olympic gold medallist Eric Murray, who is nominated with rowing partner Hamish Bond for team of the year, said it was always special to be recognised.
"It's great to go out and have good time. It's a celebration of all things sporting in New Zealand.''
Murray was accompanied by his wife Jackie.
"It's always a great night for the ladies to get dressed up.''
The All Blacks and the Black Sox are also among the nominees for team of the year.
Other guests include former Silver Fern Temepara George, All Black great Jonah Lomu and his wife Nadene Quirk, discus gold medallist Beatrice Faumuina, former Tall Black Dillon Boucher and wife Nikki, former All Blacks coach John Hart, former rower and olympic gold medallist Rob Waddell and Rugby Football Union chief executive Steve Tew. Victoria Cross winner Willie Apiata is also there.
Sir Peter Leitch, otherwise known as the Mad Butcher, was one of the first to arrive.
