Tense debate over 'party central'

The 'temporary party central structure' is the fourth plan for Queens Wharf (centre). Photo / Supplied

At least one tent manufacturer is expected to be approached about a temporary "party central" structure on Queens Wharf although officials were yesterday dissociating themselves from the T-word.

Sources have told the New Zealand Herald that the Government and the regional council, which took ownership of the wharf this month, have hired architectural firm Jasmax to design a tent-like structure for the Rugby World Cup.

One source said a tent maker was likely to be approached.

Last night, Heart of the City's Alex Swney said he had heard from a "number of different sources" that a tent-style structure was proposed.

Auckland Regional Council chairman Mike Lee said the planned structure could not be a tent.

But he refused to give details about the temporary structure which he and Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully are coming up with for approval by the Cabinet and the regional council.

As well as being "party central" for the cup, he said the venue would act as an information and meeting place and include a media lounge.

"It will also cater for the two cruise ships that will be berthed at Queens Wharf for the cup," he said.

The two 98-year-old cargo sheds would be demolished and the temporary structure erected on the site of Shed 10, on the eastern side.

A spokeswoman for the minister said it would be a couple of weeks before a decision was announced.

The "temporary structure" for Queens Wharf is the fourth plan for showcasing Auckland to the world since former Rugby World Cup Minister Trevor Mallard proposed a $500 million waterfront stadium.

Since the Government and regional council jointly purchased Queens Wharf for $40 million last year, a widely-criticised design competition has been canned and Auckland mayors decided in February not to proceed with a revised $97 million upgrade.

Mr Lee yesterday said the mayors had a collective failure of leadership and Auckland could have had a permanent, multi-purpose structure on Queens Wharf in time for the cup.

His criticism followed advice from Auckland City Mayor John Banks to the regional council and the Government to consult Aucklanders on plans.

One Auckland regional councillor, Dr Joel Cayford said councillors had received no reports on Queens Wharf since December.

Mr Banks, whose council has $44 million put aside for Queens Wharf, said Auckland City ratepayers would be willing to contribute some funding to a sensible solution, but not if it meant blitzing both cargo sheds.

"The Rugby World Cup will be hosted during the windiest, wettest and most unpleasant time of the year on Queens Wharf. The historic Shed 10 would provide shelter, a huge open space, cosiness and a sensible solution," said Mr Banks, who is contesting the Super City mayoralty.

Manukau Mayor Len Brown, the other main contender for the Super City mayoralty, said it was time to let the Government and regional council do something temporary that did not compromise aspirations for the wharf.