Big boost for economy
December 3, 2004

The spectators were not the only ones who enjoyed the Kiwis vs Kangaroos rugby league test at North Harbour Stadium in October this year.

Businesses also relished a boost of almost $1m to the economy.

An independent economic impact report on the event trans-Tasman challenge found that it brought an additional $924,000 to the region.

North Shore City Council community services and parks committee chairperson, Margaret Miles, says that can only be good for North Shore City.

"It's wonderful to have such a great facility here, where we can hold high-profile, international events.

"The Kiwis always play well at North Harbour and we earned a great draw (16-16). It also drew a great crowd."

Paul Dunphy, North Shore City's events, city promotions and tourism manager, agrees but says it is not only the money that matters.

"These kinds of events add to the city's social vibrancy as well as have an economic impact," he says.

"That's why we want to attract as many events as we can to North Harbour Stadium."

The stadium is preparing for its biggest year yet in 2005, with a record number of events confirmed.

Highlights include a Cher concert, pre-season Warriors rugby league match, and a rugby union test between the All Blacks and Fiji.

For more details, people are invited to visit www.stadium.co.nz.

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