Competition to help redesign Queens Wharf 

Source: ONE NewsQueens Wharf

New Zealanders are to get the chance to put their ideas forward for the redevelopment of Queens Wharf in Auckland.

It was announced in June that the government and the Auckland Regional Council are putting in $20 million each to purchase the wharf as a site for fans to use during the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and for development of an international cruise line terminal.

The government and Auckland Regional and City Councils have now launched an ideas and design competition to help determine how new facilities on the wharf might look for the World Cup and beyond.
 
Anyone from school children to design professionals are being encouraged to get involved in the Opening the Red Gates' Design Competition.

Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully says securing public access to Queens Wharf was an important first step and now we need to develop the site into an asset of which all New Zealanders can be proud.

"During the World Cup, Queens Wharf will be a focal point for celebrations for locals and visitors alike.

"That event provides the impetus to transform Queens Wharf into an important public space for the benefit of generations to come, and I look forward to seeing the ideas that New Zealanders put forward for this special site."

Auckland mayor John Banks says he is looking forward to seeing designs that open up and enhance the CBD's waterfront.

"We are putting the challenge out for people to help design a space that maximises this fantastic location in a truly kiwi, contemporary way."

Banks says it will be a great challenge to make sure the wharf is flexible enough to accommodate the needs of a cruise ship terminal while ensuring the space that is paid for by the people is open to the public.

"We want this redevelopment to be stunning, functional - but also affordable."

People will have three weeks to submit their formal designs, with a deadline of 12 noon on Friday September 11.
 
A shortlist of designs will be announced at the end of September.

These designs will be developed further and the final winner will be announced in early November.

Click here for the competition details and guidelines.