The Auckland Mayor is celebrating another win for sports in Auckland following the announcement of $5 million worth of government funding for upgrades at the Manuka Doctor Tennis Arena in Parnell.

Auckland Council, through its Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund, has recently contributed $1.5 million which has allowed Tennis Auckland to demolish the 60-year-old Robinson Grandstand. This will also go towards enabling an extension and the building of a roof over the facility to bring it up to international standards once again.

The Mayor says he’s happy to have supported the cause to ensure tennis stays lucrative for Aucklanders.

“I’ve been working behind the scenes for a while on this one. We must make the most of what Auckland has to offer. Putting a roof over this means we can provide the certainty to attract the biggest names in tennis to Auckland.

"It also upgrades the stadium to be more of a mixed-use facility: this will open it up to hold more games throughout the year for more people.”

He welcomes the government contribution, which is the first announced from its Major Events and Tourism Package.

“This is about the government realising it needs to invest in Auckland, given we make up for 40% of national GDP. But it’s also about the Government listening to us about where and what funding is needed because we know best when it comes to our city. I commend them for doing so.”

“I also won’t miss an opportunity to point out that a bed night levy would make the most of this sort of funding. It saves Auckland ratepayer money and costs them nothing.”

Mayor Brown adds a congratulations to Tennis Auckland.

“As a keen tennis player myself I know what it means to them and I’m very happy for them. I can’t wait to be seated in those stands and not have to worry about a bit of drizzle, or a scorching hot day for that matter!”

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