Auckland councillors have decided where they'd like to host the America's Cup. It involves extending a wharf into the harbour, but not to the extent Team New Zealand wanted.
There was significant consensus to extend the party over three wharves Halsey, Hobson and Wynyard. The bases would be easily accessible to fans as they wander through a promenade of bars and restaurants.
The plan would mean a 73 metre extension to the Halsey Wharf. This extension is shorter than Team New Zealand's vision, who had supported a 220 metre extension to spread the base across the three wharves.
That option, which would have cost about $180 million, is now off the table.
The team have decided they are willing to back down on their preference after listening to the public's concerns about encroachment on Auckland Harbour. Their chosen plan is now the Wynyard basin option, which would cost approximately $132 million.
Auckland mayor Phil Goff denied pressuring Team New Zealand to change their minds.
Newshub.
