Hide wants inquiry into capacity to host 2011 cup

Act leader Rodney Hide is seeking a parliamentary inquiry into Auckland's ability to host a successful Rugby World Cup in 2011.

The final and semi-final matches of the World Cup are expected to be held at Eden Park, which is going to get an upgrade, but Mr Hide says he is concerned about Auckland's transport system.

"The fact is that Auckland's infrastructure has been run down by successive Governments and is insufficient to meet Auckland's needs on an ordinary business day - let alone to handle the demands of the Rugby World Cup," he said yesterday. "I have therefore written to the commerce committee asking them to inquire into the adequacy of the Government's planning and funding of Auckland's infrastructure needs."

The Government has given assurances, since it won the right to host the World Cup in 2011, that it will play a full role in ensuring its success and that venues and transport can handle the pressure.

It would also put a minister in charge of the preparations, almost certainly Sports Minister Trevor Mallard.

Mr Hide said he had suggested to the committee that it invite submissions from Mr Mallard, the Minister for Auckland Issues Judith Tizard, as well as Auckland's regional and city councils, the Mayor of Auckland, Transit New Zealand and business groups.

- NZPA