Media Release
14 November 2006

Manukau Mayor on the national stadium proposal

Manukau Mayor Sir Barry Curtis says he has a strong preference for the waterfront site over the Eden Park option, subject to satisfactory analysis of its engineering challenges, and appropriate examination of its economic, urban design and environmental impacts.

“A national stadium on the waterfront would have enormous economic benefits. It would link in well with the Britomart transport centre and visually it would provide a magnificent image when pictures of the site are beamed around the world, for the promotion of tourism in New Zealand. It would be an icon that all New Zealanders can be proud of.

“However if this option does not proceed I support the upgrade of Eden Park. I believe the cost of upgrade could be kept to around $40 million by putting in temporary seating to meet the intended capacity of between 40,000 and 60,000 seats.

“This technique has been adapted for significant one-off events in other countries, and should be used here.

“I think Trevor Mallard has done an excellent job in bringing the stadium proposal forward to the point we are at now.

“I believe a decision can be made quickly by the Auckland Regional Council and the Auckland City Council. Two weeks is not too short a time. I call on those two bodies to show leadership on this important issue, and to affirm that the best strategic location for the national stadium is on the waterfront.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media