Auckland City Council

Two private events to be held in the Auckland Domain in February have the council’s blessing.

The America’s Cup Ball and the Halberg Trust Sports Awards will both be held in a large marquee to be erected on the grass area to the north of the War Memorial Museum.

Parks and Recreation Committee acting chairperson Cr David Hay describes the events as "a marvellous initiative".

"While admission to both functions will be by ticket only, these are the sort of events that add to the vibrancy of our city."

The ball, to be held on February 12, is a formal function for 1,200 guests including national and international VIPs, America’s Cup syndicate representatives, sponsors and invited guests. The Sports Awards on February 17 is a function for 1,500 guests will both acknowledge sports achievements in 1999 and celebrate performances of the last century.

The pack-down of the structure will be completed by February 25.

The Council as the "landowner" had been asked to approve the plans for the marquee and this approval was willingly given, said Cr Hay. Letters of support had also been received from the Museum, Returned Services Associaition, Ngati Whatua O Orakei Maori Trust Board and Historic Places Trust.

There was no indication that the marquee would hinder public access or detract from usual activitites in the Domain, said Cr Hay. "We wish the organisers every success."

© Scoop Media