Media release

Newmarket Business Association

Sunday, 19 November 2006

Poll puts Eden Park ahead despite waterfront being better for business

The first business poll specifically quizzing Auckland businesspeople and retailers about the Government’s two stadium choices has been conducted with some compelling results.

Last week the Newmarket Business Association conducted an email poll among its commercial membership. Over 400 responded to the two questions: “What is your personal preference? A) Waterfront stadium or B) Upgraded Eden Park” and secondly “Which would be better for business? A) Waterfront stadium or B) Upgraded Eden Park”.

53.4% of Newmarket businesspeople said their personal preference was Eden Park. 46.6% said the waterfront.

"This is the closest poll result to be published on the issue and interestingly Eden Park prevailed. Many respondents commented on the fact that while Eden Park was not perfect it was nonetheless a lower risk option. While many businesspeople like the concept of a waterfront stadium, many said there are just too many uncertainties around cost, engineering, its impact on the port, and whether it could actually be built in time," said head of the Newmarket Business Association and poll organiser, Cameron Brewer.

"The fact that Auckland's leading retail district, just one train stop from the waterfront, has gone with Eden Park is quite compelling particularly when Newmarket people admit a waterfront stadium would probably be better for their business."

61.3% of Newmarket businesspeople said the waterfront option would be better for business. 38.7% said an upgraded Eden Park would be.

"It is very interesting that while the majority thinks a waterfront stadium would be better for business, most believe an upgraded Eden Park would be a more business-like decision for Auckland to take given all the unknowns. Coming from Auckland's leading retailing district, which is full of highly ambitious and visionary people, this is quite a statement. Businesspeople seem to be thinking with their heads rather than what’s in it for them. It seems they are basing their view on the facts presented not the emotion. Auckland’s decision-makers should take heed of this," said Mr Brewer.

411 people responded to the email poll. The Newmarket Business Association, which has over 1500 members and is the second largest business association in Auckland, presides over the city's leading retailing district and second largest commercial centre.

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