Harvey backs Whenuapai as latest V8 racing venue

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey has declared support for V8 supercar racing at Whenuapai Airbase, after cutting his losses on a bid to turn it into a civilian airport.

He said yesterday that although he had not given up on establishing a second commercial airport for Auckland, he feared it may be more than 12 years before the Air Force carried out plans to move flying operations from Whenuapai to Ohakea.

He was enthusiastic, therefore, that the Government was reconsidering allowing Whenuapai to host the New Zealand leg of the annual Australian-run V8 race series, after bids to move these from Pukekohe to central Auckland and then to Wellington both failed.

"We look forward to seeing the details of the proposal and hopefully working with the organisers on delivering this major international event."

Defence Minister Mark Burton summoned Whenuapai town planner Peter Sinton and motor-racing champion Paul Radisich to a meeting in Wellington on Tuesday with senior Defence Force officials and those of two other departments.

Mr Sinton told the Herald after the meeting that he believed he and Mr Radisich received a fair hearing.

A spokeswoman for Mr Burton said officials were aware of a high level of interest and a need for progress.