Wynyard Basin council's preferred Cup base
Auckland Council's Governing Body confirmed Wynyard Basin as it's preferred America's Cup base location.
Auckland Council’s Governing Body today confirmed the Wynyard Basin option as its location preference for negotiation with the Crown and Emirates Team New Zealand for the 2021 America’s Cup.
Mayor Phil Goff says, “Most New Zealanders, from all walks of life and from all parts of our community, want to see the America’s Cup raced in New Zealand.
“It’s a matter of pride. We saw that earlier this year when more than 90,000 people come out in our city to celebrate Emirates Team New Zealand returning home with the Cup.
“The government estimates between 4,000 and 8,000 jobs will be created in bringing the America’s Cup to our region. This is a chance to showcase Auckland to the world in a unique way – through top sportsmanship, high quality technology and with the stunning backdrop of Auckland’s harbour.
“Today’s decision to confirm the Wynyard Basin option as the preferred location is based on timing, cost and legacy, and it paves the way for resource consent lodgement in the New Year.
“Wynyard Point is a valid alternative option for consideration and we have received strong professional advice from officials on both locations. This has also been shared with Minister Parker.
The council’s preference will be shared with the Government to inform its decision-making in the coming weeks. Minister Parker has indicated the Government’s intention to also consider the Wynyard Point option.
The Governing Body also noted that there is no funding available for a hosting agreement and that investment in necessary infrastructure is the extent of the council’s contribution.
Next steps
Today’s decision will be referred to the Government (Cabinet) to inform its decision-making and council staff will develop a resource consent application for the Wynyard Basin option for lodgement in January 2018.
Read the Governing Body report here.