Experts roll in with ideas to invigorate Auckland

Five urban development experts from three continents have arrived to help Auckland become a world-class city and region.

The visitors, who will spend a week studying local efforts at creating an internationally competitive economy inclusive of all Aucklanders, spoke at a forum last night on developments in Britain, the United States, Canada and South Africa.

Leading the panel is Greg Clark who, as adviser on city and regional development to embattled British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, has a key role in preparing London for the 2012 Olympic Games.

He challenged an audience at the Auckland University of Technology (a partner with business interests and the regional council in the eight-month Metropolitan Auckland Project) to consider how the 2011 Rugby World Cup might accelerate wider economic strategies.

Noting London's support of other British cities where Olympic events would be held, he said Auckland should consider how the cup could demonstrate the city and region's role in New Zealand's success.

Tomorrow the visitors will join Aucklanders at talks on infrastructure for a world-class city and region, skills shortages, business innovation - and making the most of 2011.