Convention Centre will be a 'world first'

The NZ International Convention Centre was one of many structures discussed at the Tripartite Summit.

The $700 million NZ International Convention Centre will be a world first because it will be open on all sides, says one of its architects.

John Coop, Warren and Mahoney principal and chairman, told yesterday's Tripartite Economic Summit in Auckland how the building would be different from other centres.

"This will be the first convention centre in the world with no back door - open on all four sides to the street and the city that surrounds its highly urban site, presenting an open face to all who approach," Coop told the summit for which 750 people have registered to attend.

The alliance is aimed at furthering the interests of Auckland, Los Angeles and Guangzhou. LA mayor Eric Garcetti is here along with Guangzhou vice-mayor Wang Dong.

Day two of the summit opens today with a keynote address from the Minister of Business, Innovation and Employment, Stephen Joyce.

Coop showed the summit some of the most outstanding Auckland buildings and structures.

Commercial Bay, the new office/shopping tower by Precinct Properties, would be "a transformational moment for the core of Auckland's waterfront, a highly symbolic project that integrates trains, shopping, public open space, and the business community", he said.

Auckland Art Gallery was "the most beautiful front door in the world, a grand gesture of warmth and invitation".

Imperial Lane, the cafe designed by Fearon Hay Architects, gave "a whole new life to a collection of heritage structures. Important, challenging work that has been delivered with sophistication and elegance."

The Tripartite Economic Summit finishes today at the Viaduct Events Centre.