Future of block uncertain

The future use of a large Auckland office block is uncertain as plans for the Super City take shape.

The $55 million 10-level Auckland Regional Council headquarters at 21 Pitt St near Spaghetti Junction is one of the city's biggest blocks.

Kiwi Income Property Trust owns that 17,229sq m glass tower which looms over the end of Hobson St.

Chris Gudgeon, chief executive of Kiwi's manager, said the ARC was not the only tenant but its lease had some years to run.

"ARC's lease over 12,831sq m of space at 21 Pitt St expires in 2015. So whatever happens with the Super City, they are committed to pay rent until then - even if they are disbanded as an entity," Gudgeon said.

"Both ourselves and ARC are waiting on the Transitional Authority to make decisions in respect of future office accommodation and where it will be provided.

"Of course one option is for the Super City authority to use the Pitt St premises as part of its overall accommodation solution."

Kiwi said the building was finished in 1990 and has 360-degree views and quality services. The property is fully leased and tenants include consultants Beca.

The future of territorial authority properties in Auckland's CBD, Manukau, the North Shore and Waitakere hang in the balance. A question market also hangs over real estate owned by district councils at Rodney, Papakura and Franklin.