“Concerts and major sporting events held at Eden Park inject millions of dollars into Auckland’s economy from locals and visitors alike – but current planning rules could be holding Eden Park back from doing more,” said New Zealand’s tourism minister, Louise Upston.
“Last summer Auckland’s economy received a boost of nearly $32 million from several big concerts. These events created jobs and had local hospitality businesses humming.
“We want to see more events like these, and the government’s $70 million events and tourism investment package…will allow New Zealand to compete with Australia to host big events and will give international visitors even more reasons to come and explore New Zealand, while also encouraging Kiwis to get out and about.”
New Zealand’s minister for RMA (Resource Management Act) reform, Chris Bishop said the government needed to “make sure that our planning rules are fit for purpose”.
“We’ve heard that there are local rules and constraints around Eden Park that could be restricting its ability to host events.
“For example, Eden Park is only allowed to host six artists playing a total of 12 shows per year. These shows can only take place on certain days of the week, can only have a maximum duration of five hours, have to be finished by 11pm on weekdays, and can host no more than four concerts in a four-week period.
“Sporting events face many barriers too. The stadium is currently not allowed to host more than 25 night-time sporting events per year, and they can only be between 7.30pm and 9.30pm on weekdays (except for cricket which can go until 10pm). Sporting events can’t take place on Sunday evenings.
“And despite the stadium’s huge capacity, conferences can’t have more than 2,000 people.”
Bishop said the investigation would determine whether Eden Park’s rules are suppressing economic growth and if so, there could be changes to regulation, which could give Eden Park greater freedom to hold events.
The stadium hosted the welcome event for New Zealand’s flagship business events trade show MEETINGS in June.
