(left to right) Auckland Rugby Union chair Brent Metson, Eden Park Trust Board chair Simon Bridges, Auckland Cricket Association chair Brendon Gibson, Minister Simon Watts, Auckland Council Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson and Minister Mark Mitchell have a new ball in play – to deliver on a Foundation Agreement that unlocks Eden Park’s potential with the exit of cricket and rugby to new homes. Photo credit: Auckland Council
A Foundation Agreement signed by Auckland Council, the Crown, Eden Park, Auckland Cricket and Auckland Rugby Union marks a significant step forward in Auckland’s stadium network, and the future of Auckland Cricket and Auckland Rugby.
The agreement outlines a pathway for modern, permanent, fit-for-purpose facilities for cricket and rugby in Auckland, while reinforcing Eden Park’s role as New Zealand’s national stadium.
The partners will work together to resolve legacy arrangements and support the transition of sporting organisations to facilities that better suit their long-term needs. The aim is to make better use of Auckland’s stadium assets and support more sustainable and tailored venues.
The agreement follows the joint announcement by Auckland Council and the government for a Regional Deal last week, including $5 million of matched funding from Auckland Council and the Crown ($10 million in total) committed to the development of Colin Maiden Park as the new home for domestic cricket in Auckland.
Minister for Auckland Hon Simon Watts says the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to getting Auckland moving and growing.
“We changed the consenting rules this year to enable Eden Park to host more concerts and events. Improvements to planning will also mean the city can be developed in a more coordinated way alongside the new City Rail Link. This practical first step paves the way for cricket and rugby to resolve long-standing legacy arrangements at Eden Park that are no longer fit for purpose,” says Minister Watts.
“When this city succeeds, it lifts productivity, attracts global investment, and creates opportunities for every Kiwi.”
Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson who led negotiations for Auckland Council welcomes the agreement as an important step towards strengthening Auckland’s stadium network and delivering greater value for ratepayers.
“Like most people, I want to see more sport, culture, concerts and major events in Auckland. These are the experiences that showcase our diversity and help create a vibrant, globally connected city. Aucklanders love them, visitors come here for them and stay longer to enjoy everything our beautiful city has to offer – all while boosting the wider economy,” says Deputy Mayor Simpson.
“This is a step towards a more efficient, integrated model for Auckland's stadium network. It’s been set up to work for Auckland rather than compete with itself, something that’s been a long-term ambition of the council.”
“I’d like to thank all parties for the respectful way they worked through the many challenges we faced. It took time and real commitment, but we got there, and today’s announcement reflects the dedication everyone has shown to Auckland.”
The joined-up approach reflected in the Foundation Agreement aims to maximise value from Auckland’s stadium network and secure Eden Park’s future as New Zealand’s national stadium.
Eden Park Trust Board Chair Simon Bridges says the Trust sees this as an important step, creating greater flexibility to better utilise Eden Park and advance its long-term plans for the venue.
“This partnership gives momentum to our future plans for Eden Park, provides a pathway for long-standing legacy arrangements with Auckland Cricket and Auckland Rugby to be resolved, and creates greater opportunity to better utilise Eden Park for the benefit of Aucklanders and future generations," says Mr Bridges.
Auckland Cricket is proposing to relocate its domestic high-performance and community operations from Eden Park to a purpose-built facility at Colin Maiden Park. The Ōrākei Local Board has granted conditional landowner approval for the development.
Auckland Cricket chair Brendon Gibson says the agreement provides a constructive path forward.
“There are a lot of moving parts, and we have worked hard to protect and have our rights under the Eden Park trust deed recognised while looking forward to a worthy home base for Auckland Cricket and ensuring the financial health of the Auckland Cricket Association and cricket community – this agreement creates a positive pathway to continue that work,” says Mr Gibson.
Auckland Rugby chair Brent Metson says the organisation is focused on securing fit-for-purpose, financially sustainable, and permanent regional facilities.
“We have the ball in motion and we’re closing in on an exit strategy from Eden Park, although careful to protect the interests of our members and continuing to provide a quality experience for our supporters” says Mr Metson.
The Foundation Agreement establishes a framework for the parties to work together to enable future stadium developments and support the transition of tenant organisations to appropriate long-term facilities.
Eden Park is an independent operator in Auckland’s stadium network, which also comprises Go Media Stadium, North Harbour Stadium, and Western Springs Stadium.