Media release
Auckland Councillor Cameron Brewer
Monday, 24 October 2011

Closing Queens Wharf, Giant Rugby Ball and Waka premature

It’s a big shame that Queens Wharf, the Giant Rugby Ball, and Waka Maori on Te Wero Island are now closed to the public, says Auckland Councillor Cameron Brewer.

“Given all the public investment and interest in these attractions, it was premature to close them down on Sunday. Labour Day and this week will see a lot of people head down to the waterfront only to be disappointed.

“To think that $40m of public money went into buying Queens Wharf, and for it not to be open on Labour Day in particular is disappointing. It was shut down too early.

“The giant 100% Pure New Zealand rugby ball on Queens Wharf has been a huge attraction, with people queuing for hours to see the 10-minute audio-visual show. It’s a pity that it had its last showing before the Rugby World Cup grand final was even played. The giant rugby ball has been around the world, but unfortunately many Kiwis have missed it largely because of their aversion to queues. A few more days would have allowed several more thousand to see inside.

“Showcasing Maori culture, the 76-metre long Waka on Te Wero Island which cost $2m has proved incredibly popular. It is a shame that despite all the money and effort it was only open for 11 days and is now closed.

“It just seems crazy that these popular attractions have now been closed down given the tens of thousands of overseas visitors still in town, the fact that it’s a long weekend and school holidays, and given all the thousands of Aucklanders heading into town for the tickertape parade.

“Keeping these attractions open for a few more days would have cost, but given the tens of millions spent on setting them up it would’ve also ensured a greater return on the total investment,” says Cameron Brewer.
Ends

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