New $18.6m design for terminal

An architect's impression of the proposal for Shed 10 on Queens Wharf. Photo / Jasmax

It's back to basics for a cruise-ship terminal on Queens Wharf after the sinking of grand proposals costing $49 million and $29 million.

Faced with community and political resistance, Mayor Len Brown has leaned on Waterfront Auckland to come up with a new design costing ratepayers $18.6 million.

Instead of demolishing the century-old Shed 10 for a $49.2 million new terminal favoured by the Government in 2010, or choosing an $28.7 million makeover of Shed 10 promoted by Waterfront Auckland last year, the council will decide on Wednesday whether to proceed with an $18.6 million design.

Shed 10 would still be more than 50 per cent bigger than the current cruise-ship facility on Princes Wharf but have a more basic fit-out that leaves much of the ground floor as is and refurbishes the upper level to unveil its wooden floors and steel trusses.

Windows would be added to open up harbour views. The two floors would be linked by two internal staircases.

The $18.6 million cost includes $4 million already spent on bringing Shed 10 up to scratch for the Rugby World Cup. Ports of Auckland, which will manage the terminal, would chip in $2.5 million for gangway costs.

Next month, Waterfront Auckland will report to councillors on future options for the $9.8 million Cloud structure on Queens Wharf, built for the Rugby World Cup.

Mr Brown said refurbishment of Shed 10 was a good start for a cruise-ship terminal and building a highly desirable event space.

"For Auckland to gain maximum economic benefits from cruise it needs to become more cruise-friendly and invest in infrastructure.

"This is all about jobs for Auckland."

Auckland has just finished another record season of cruise-ship visits with 97, and 176,000 passenger arrivals.

The 2012-2013 season is expected to grow 25 per cent.

With council approval, construction could start in July and be completed by next May.