Emirates Team New Zealand statement on America’s Cup bases
Emirates Team New Zealand statement on America’s Cup bases
Emirates Team New Zealand said today that they have been working through a variety of base options with both Government and Council but have not yet concluded discussions that meet all parties objectives.
Like all Aucklanders Emirates Team New Zealand are really supportive of cleaning up the tank farm and creating a great waterfront space and are pleased that by winning the America’s Cup it has created the impetus for the agreed removal of the Stolthaven Tanks.
Today’s release of the alternate plan by Government and its support from Council was a surprise to Emirates Team New Zealand said CEO Grant Dalton.
“We are surprised with the release of the Government plan at this point as from our perspective we are still working together towards a final agreement.”
In a meeting yesterday with Government, Council officials, engineers and architects, Emirates Team New Zealand presented a plan that delivers a contained and vibrant event village environment on the Halsey and Hobson Wharfs, without the necessity of building on Wynyard Point, for significantly less cost than what the Government has presented today.
“Emirates Team New Zealand has always existed with the absolute priority of effectively saving money where possible, and the option we presented yesterday has the ability to save tens of millions of dollars.”explained Dalton.
“While we are 100% behind the removal of the tanks, timeframe is a hugely significant consideration in the planning for this America’s Cup. And we feel our option presented to Government and Council yesterday eliminates the potential for unforeseen blowouts in both time and money when dealing with contaminated land which are factors none of the interested parties can afford in delivering the event on time and to budget.”
The plan presented by Emirates Team New Zealand includes the 75 metre Halsey extension, which is already in the process for Resource Consent with a reconfiguration of bases and the ability to house up to 7 teams on the Halsey and Hobson Wharfs all well within the confines of the exisiting neighbouring wharfs.
“This option allows for a much more contained event village which has always been important for a world class event.” explained Dalton.
“We are acutely conscious of costs and believe any reduction in the construction costs and risks must be a seriously considered.”
“At this point we want to clearly reiterate our continued commitment to hosting the event in Auckland in 2021 and hope we can continue to work to reach a shared agreement with Government and Council.” concluded Dalton.
