Regional leaders non-committal over helping pay $150m 'funding gap' for Christchurch stadium
Canterbury's regional leaders remain guarded and non-committal about whether they will help pay the rising costs of a central Christchurch stadium, with many saying such a decision would require public consultation.
Building the 30,000-seat covered stadium will now cost up to $683 million – $150m more than the $533m budget.
If Christchurch city councillors push on with the current design, they will have to underwrite an extra $150m, taking their total contribution to $453m.
Some city councillors say it is time for neighbouring councils to offer a helping hand.
The stadium would be a regional facility and its economic benefits would go beyond Christchurch, a council spokesperson said.
Other Canterbury councils have been contacted about the latest cost blowout and the city council intends to hold further discussions before making a formal proposal, the spokesperson said.
One mooted method is a regional targeted rate, which could be administered by Environment Canterbury.
Read more here and tell us what you think in the comments below.
Gang presence this weekend
International members of the Mongols MC are expected in Canterbury for an event marking five years since the gang established itself in New Zealand.
What you need to know:
-The gang has three chapters in the South Island. Wainoni-based Ōtautahi East, Ashburton-based Mid-South and SH1, Burnham.
- Police say they will have ‘considerable resource’ in the region during the event from November 7-10.
- Police in Canterbury have planned a major operation around the event - thought to coincide with a national meeting - from November 7 to 10, and have drafted in staff from two other districts to help.
- Mongols members from across the country are expected to meet at the gang’s original South Island headquarters - a fortified property on SH1, Burnham, on the outskirts of Christchurch.
- Canterbury district commander Superintendent Tony Hill says:
“We’re prepared for multiple contingencies. We will be monitoring their behaviour very closely over the period, if they’re not behaving appropriately then we will be taking appropriate action quite swiftly.”
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Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.8% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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19.6% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.7% Keep it as is
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32.9% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.5% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
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