Mike Lee

ARC Chairman Mike Lee is urging Auckland's mayors to quit vacillating, show some leadership and agree to progressing development of Queens Wharf.

"I believe Aucklanders are now tired of all the talk about Queens Wharf," he said. "They want to see some action not more bickering about whether to proceed with development.

"Anybody who has been down to Queens Wharf in the past week and seen the ramshackle arrangements thousands of cruise ship passengers have to put up with would appreciate that something has to change.

"Five years ago, the ARC, Auckland City Council and Ports of Auckland - along with numerous stakeholders and the general public - spent a great deal of time and effort formulating a comprehensive waterfront vision."

In 2005, 850 community, business and industry representatives responded to a call to agree on a vision for the waterfront.

The vision agreed the waterfront should be opened up progressively to the public, and support the city's economy through continued port activities and marine industries. The waterfront should also be a world-class destination that celebrates our Pacific culture and maritime history.

In addition, the vision identified Wynyard Point and the 4.25 hectare headland park - already secured - as the place to construct an 'iconic' public building that should be emblematic of Auckland.

"The feedback I am getting from the public is that what Aucklanders want for the waterfront has not changed," said Mr Lee. "What we need to do is get on with it. We have a golden opportunity to develop Queens Wharf as a cruise ship terminal and as an attractive public space.

"People are becoming fed up with the arguing and political campaigning. They want to see leadership and action - not more squabbling and fence straddling.

"While earlier designs were disappointing, I am confident the latest design options have the potential to match Queens Wharf's superb location, offer cruise ship passengers a fitting welcome to Auckland and New Zealand, and provide the public with a venue to enjoy major events - like the Rugby World Cup - as well as the harbour.

"Sitting on our hands and doing nothing on Queens Wharf is not an option. We need to get on with delivering what the city needs, at a price that offers long term value for money."