Manukau Mayor wants government to involve all of Auckland in Queens Wharf

Manukau Mayor Len Brown today called on central government to consult with all the Auckland mayors and councils on plans for new facilities on Queen’s Wharf.

“While this is in Auckland Regional Council and Auckland City Council’s domain at the moment, it is of interest to all of Auckland as the whole region will end up paying the bill for it once the super city comes into effect late next year,” says Mr Brown.

“We remember the last time government came riding into Auckland with its cheque book and a take-it-or-leave it approach over the waterfront with its stadium concept. The idea had considerable merit but it was not handled properly and the project failed at the first hurdle.

“The Queen’s Wharf proposal looks, in general, to be a good idea, but how it will be funded, what share of the cost should central government take, and the design and purpose of the new facility should be discussed with all the councils.

“While we need facilities in place for the Rugby World Cup in 2011, I believe it is just as important is putting in place a landmark facility befitting Queen’s Wharf’s prime position on Auckland’s waterfront.

“All of Auckland will be paying for this. All of Auckland should be involved in the discussion.

“This is an opportunity to create a visionary project for the region. If we take a constructive and consultative approach, we can avoid the polarisation and controversy of the waterfront stadium, and work collectively to create a facility which will leave a lasting impression and which all of Auckland and New Zealand can take pride in,” says Mr Brown.