AK03 loss heading for $370,000

By BERNARD ORSMAN

Auckland's AK03 Festival made a loss of $270,000 but is being called a resounding success and a strong platform for a second festival in 2005.

Auckland City recreation and events committee chairman Scott Milne said he was disappointed at the festival deficit, which would be closer to $370,000 when the council added running costs for the organisation through to July next year.

The loss of 20 portable toilets in Aotea Square through fire during the 16-day festival could add to the loss, Mr Milne said.

Auckland City ratepayers contributed $1.5 million in the two-year build up to the festival, which had a turbulent history and nearly did not take place.

But the work of councillor Victoria Carter, who stepped in as acting festival director in August last year, and the appointment of Simon Prast as director in February are credited in a council report with creating a successful and vibrant event in a tight timeframe.

The festival, held between September 20 and October 5, included 46 ticketed events and 20 free events attended by about 185,000 people.

Shows such as It's in the Bag and Aladdin sold out. An 18 per cent deficit in box office income was put down to poor sales at two big shows, Vagabond Tales and Twin Peaks. A shortfall in sponsorship and some unforeseen costs added to the loss.

Mr Milne said the council's finance and corporate business committee would be asked to consider a financial package to cover the loss.

"It was a ground-breaking event and we knew these were uncharted waters for the first festival."

The report said many of the sponsors were keen to be involved again and there were plans to move the 2005 festival to summer.

Herald Feature: Auckland Festival AK03

Auckland Festival website