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Oracle base purchase a step to vibrant marine area
MEDIA RELEASE
4 April 2005
Oracle base purchase sets
sail towards
vibrant marine area
Auckland City this week purchased the former base used by the BMW Oracle Racing team in the last America’s Cup.
Deputy Mayor Bruce Hucker, chairperson of Auckland City’s Urban Strategy and Governance Committee, says this ensures the building remains in public ownership and keeps options for the area’s future open.
“This purchase is a strategic stepping-stone towards council’s plans for a lively, thriving area for marine events.
“Auckland City is looking to enhance access and opportunities for enjoyment of Aucklanders and visitors to this area,” he says.
Councillor Vern Walsh, chairperson of Auckland City’s Finance and Corporate Business Committee, which approved the purchase says, “This is a vital asset to have under our belts when decisions are made on the long-term future of the area. This is a very good result for Aucklanders.”
The Oracle base, located at 155-161 Halsey Street, has three buildings which can be used for future events.
Auckland City also owns the Eastern Viaduct, Te Wero Island and the former Team New Zealand base (bought in 2003 for $235,000).
The other two former Cup bases in the area, One World and Alinghi, are under public ownership by way of America’s Cup Village Limited (ACVL), which is owned by Auckland Regional Holdings (ARH).
Auckland City and the Auckland Regional Council have highlighted the need to make immediate decisions about the long-term future of the America’s Cup bases in their draft vision for the wider waterfront area.
“We believe the development of a marine events centre is vital to the future vibrancy of our city and it is certainly the city council’s preferred option for the area,” says Dr Hucker, who jointly leads the political liaison group with the Auckland Regional Council that is looking at the waterfront’s future.
Public consultation on the draft vision closed in March. The final vision and plans for the waterfront area are due to be launched later this year.
Oracle retains its presence in the Viaduct Harbour with an office on the barge which is berthed adjacent to the syndicate’s old base.
Ends
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