Auckland's Planet Hollywood restaurant to close on Friday

9.00pm

Auckland restaurant Planet Hollywood is closing its Queen St doors on Friday in the face of changing consumer trends, it was confirmed today.

Sky City Leisure (SCL) chairman David Gascoigne today said the closure reflected a change in customer interest in "this type of hospitality experience" over time.

"It is widely recognised that the entertainment and hospitality sectors require constant refreshment to reflect changing customer needs," he said.

"The decision was taken by the Sky City Leisure Board to investigate more attractive options for utilisation of the Planet Hollywood space," he said in a statement.

Other Planet Hollywoods in the international movie-themed restaurant chain had closed citing similar reasons, he said, noting SCL had operated the business since December 1999.

However, Sky City Metro cinema complex customers would be offered a "new and exciting" alternative on the restaurant's site.

Mr Gascoigne said a "reputable operator" had signed a conditional lease for the Planet Hollywood restaurant and ex-Theatro spaces.

The new leaseholder would develop new dining and entertainment options, he told NZX.

SCL was working with Planet Hollywood staff over their "redepoyment" to other operations within the Sky City Entertainment Group.

In February, Mr Gascoigne said the Planet Hollywood brand needed refreshing.

- NZPA