Earlier this week, we reported that the SkyCity convention centre may need to tap New Zealand taxpayers for additional funding. However, due to a great deal of backlash from local residents, the casino operator will be changing its plans in order to create a less expensive venue that will not require the assistance of taxpayers.

The SkyCity convention centre deal was finalised in 2013, when the casino operator agreed to build a convention centre in Auckland for $402 million – in return for some gambling concessions. The deal was met with a great deal of criticism from local residents, as they felt that operator should not be given more pokies in return for building the convention centre.

There was also plenty of criticism about the lack of transparency throughout the negotiation process. Little was heard about the project until the end of 2014. At this time, SkyCity announced that the original plan could not be realised with just $402 million. Eventually, Prime Minister John Key backed the casino operator’s plans to obtain additional funding from taxpayers.

Again, a great deal of backlash was directed towards both SkyCity and John Key. The Taxpayers’ Union even started petition which received over 1500 signatures from concerned residents. In the end, the two parties decided that it would be best not to seek additional assistance from taxpayers.

A statement from SkyCity Chief Nigel Morrison reads: “We have agreed to review the design for the NZICC so that the expected total project cost, which SkyCity will be totally responsible for, will be more in the vicinity of SkyCity's $402 million commitment, as set out in the NZICC Agreement." Now, SkyCity will review its plans and scale back the venue to fit within the original budget.

We are confident that the new design will be just as attractive as the original, and that the venue will attract visitors from around the world.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.