Eden Park welcomes ARC unanimity; expresses continued confidence

Eden Park Trust Board Chief Executive John Alexander today welcomed the unanimous decision from the Auckland Regional Council in support of Eden Park, and expressed continued confidence that the Park would be the final choice of Auckland and New Zealand to host the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Mr Alexander acknowledged the Trust Board was disappointed a consensus with Auckland City Council had not been found, but noted Auckland City had voted 13:7 for Eden Park's completed design scheme as a second choice to the waterfront.

Mr Alexander said a final decision was now in central Government’s hands, and expressed confidence that Eden Park would be confirmed.

“Our plans preserve Eden Park’s rich sporting and social history and will provide sports viewing of an international quality.”

Mr Alexander thanked the Auckland and New Zealand public for their emails, phone calls and letters of support over recent weeks.

Mr Alexander said the most important thing was that Auckland and New Zealand remain on track to host the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

“We understand Cabinet is meeting on 27 November to discuss the Councils’ respective decisions.

“Until a firm decision is reached, Eden Park will continue to work towards its planned 30 November resource consent hearing.

“Whichever proposal is finally confirmed, we are confident we can continue to work positively with the Government as well as with both the Auckland Regional Council and the Auckland City Council.”

end