24 Aug 2009

Queens Wharf competition launched

7:36 am on 24 August 2009

The Auckland City and Auckland Regional councils have jointly announced the next stage in the multi-million dollar re-development of Queens Wharf on Auckland's waterfront.

A design and ideas competition has been launched, which will help shape how the new facilities may look for the 2011 Rugby World Cup and future use as a cruise terminal.

The site is currently used by the Ports of Auckland, but was purchased in June with the help of the Government.

Designs must adhere to a $76 million cap. So far the Auckland City Council has committed $54 million, leaving a $22 million shortfall.

Auckland City mayor John Banks wants to see the existing historic warehouses at the site stripped and retained to make use of rimu and kauri floors, ceilings and beams.

He says he's looking forward to seeing designs that open up and enhance the waterfront area at the base of the central business district.

Regional Council chairperson, Mike Lee would like to see the old sheds replaced with "glassy, open elegant" buildings that allow in lots of light.

A shortlist of designs will be announced at the end of September.