The real issue here is that Greater Wellington Regional Council expects the stadium to cover its own costs, rather than being seeing it as a vital community asset worthy of some ratepayer cash. Given the fact that it's a recreational space (viewing sport is recreation) used by thousands and thousands of people from the region, and generates significant economic input into the region as well, surely there's a valid case to bring costs to users down and to make up the shortfall with rates money.
Nailed it. It's unbelievable that they've put no money into the stadium. Maybe this whole nix licence saga will finally push them into doing so. They may also make a better effort with public transport on game days, if we're lucky.
Hasnt greater wellington rates being paying for the stadium since it was built?
Im sure I remember my parent bitching about that 10 years ago.
I just had a look and it looks like there is a very small part of Rates going to the Stadium loan, for me it is $7 per year.
BUT as per Page 18 of this report, the Stadium has to pay any surplus to the Councils to repay their loans WCC $15m, GWRC $25m (So in 2014 Financial year that $2.2m went straight back to the councils for their loans)