Mayor angry at attempt to stop Barmy Army HQ

Auckland mayor Dick hubbard is worried about the impact on future events in the city. Picture / Paul Estcourt

Auckland mayor Dick Hubbard said today it would be a "Day of shame" if a handful of waterfront residents succeed in stopping events at the Viaduct Basin during the Lions Tour.

A group of residents living in one block of viaduct apartments want to stop Lions supporters the Barmy Army having a base at the former America's Cup buildings for two weeks.

Lighter Quay Management Services Limited has lodged proceedings in the High Court seeking to overturn the consent, which allowed hours of operation to 3am on four nights and 1am on others, with all outdoor activity ceasing at 11pm.

Mr Hubbard said: "Events are exciting, passionate things that bring life and soul to a city.

"We have bent over backwards to accommodate the residents. I am saying, put aside your self-interest for two weeks and put your city and your country first."

Mr Hubbard fears future events, and the 2011 Rugby World Cup bid coul dbe put at risk if the challenge is successful.

He added: "Successful cities around the world hold events which can be disruptive to residents. This will only be a 16-day event and we have made every effort to ensure strict conditions on the resource consent to minimise disruption for these people."

Auckland City Council said it had been careful to ensure the event had enough flexibility to go ahead while also addressing the concerns of neighbouring properties.

Noise and public safety requirements included in the consent involve local traffic only restrictions around the Lighter Quay and Viaduct apartments.

The applicant, Elite Events Ltd, was granted resource consent to host the event at the Viaduct Harbour Marine Village in Halsey Street for 20 days, starting from Saturday June 25.

- HERALD ONLINE STAFF