Wellington is to build an $11m waterfront party zone in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
A wharewaka, canoe house, and an adjacent marquee will accommodate more than 1200 rugby fans on Taranaki Wharf.
Funding for the wharewaka will be $4 million from Wellington City Council and three Maori trusts and $7 million from the Government.
Ratepayers would pay $150,000 to rent the venue for the festivities.
Wharewaka o Poneke Charitable Trust chair Sir Ngatata Love says it will be accessible for visitors and locals alike.
Construction is expected to be completed in December, with the zone being opened in January.
