City big events at risk, says report

High-profile shows such as New Zealand Fashion Week could vanish if Auckland City Council does not do more to attract and keep major events, an economic development report warns.

The report to the council's economic development and sustainable business committee says event organisers are sick of having to wade through a slew of consents, permits and other impediments when applying to stage events.

The internal report by the council's planning department was prompted, in part, by the city's loss of the V8 Supercars event last year.

It also suggests the creation of a "focal point" in the organisation of events, such as any future America's Cup challenge.

Were Team NZ to regain the cup, plans should already be under way to ensure any challenge was hosted by Auckland.

The report also urges the council to play to Auckland's strengths - its harbour and landscape, population and cultural diversity - when planning major events.

At an estimated cost of $250,000 for each big event, more money will have to be provided, unless community-event budgets are cut, it says.

The council's promotions budget is $672,000, with $555,000 of that divvied up between events such as Fashion Week, the Heineken Tennis Open and the Santa parade.

Within existing budgets, the council could reallocate $200,000 to ensure it retains current major events. An extra $223,000 could guarantee a waterfront festival, says the report.

"If the council is serious about major events over the long term, it would need to look at long-term options for additional funding."

The report suggests the council enter partnerships and seek sponsorship to help fund big-ticket occasions.

Open areas in the central city large enough to cater to large-audience events are already at "maximum stretch", and the report says there is potential for a "purpose-designed, event-friendly" venue on the waterfront.

The suggestions met with the approval of Auckland Chamber of Commerce boss Michael Barnett.

He says the council should work more closely with event organisers rather than unilaterally "inventing something new" with every event.

Lions Hospitality national operations manager Victoria Hunt has been in close contact with the council for this year's Lions rugby tour.

She says the organisation has applied for a number of consents for planned rugby-related events, and the council is busy "plodding their way through that".

The report will be discussed at councillor workshops later this month and early March.