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City will bring netball championships to people

Thursday 15 February 2007, 12:34PM

By Infonews Editor

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AUCKLAND

Auckland City Council plans a festival atmosphere around the 2007 World Netball Championships with plenty of opportunity for Aucklanders to mix and mingle with players and watch the games for free on a big screen in a special CBD entertainment hub.

The council's Economic Development and Sustainable Business Committee has endorsed a $335,000 package that will support Netball New Zealand's hosting the championships. The budget will be presented to the council's Combined Committees in March for approval.

The contribution, which is a mix of cash and services, was part of the joint bid with Waitakere City Council, The Trusts Stadium and Tourism Auckland, which saw the hosting rights for the November event awarded to Auckland.

"The council is committed to making this event memorable for the city and as part of the support we offered to host an event to welcome the visiting teams and officials, as well as a special public launch in Auckland's CBD," said committee chairperson Councillor Richard Northey.

"We want to bring the games to the public while also showcasing Auckland to those visiting during this world class netball event."

As part of the bid, Auckland City Council offered staff resources to assist with event management, facilitation and promotion during the championships, as well as a cash contribution of $100,000 specifically towards salaries and the costs of the likely use of Vector Arena for the semi-finals and finals.

The establishment of a dedicated hub during the event is also planned so the public can watch the games, meet the players and try out their netball skills.

Councillor Northey said the council recognised the hugely important role netball plays in our community and was excited about the buzz these championships will create in the city.

"The successful bid is a fantastic example of collaboration in the region, with Auckland City Council teaming up with our partners to deliver a successful and memorable event for players, their support staff, spectators and the New Zealand public."