Key announces $15 million grant for AMI Stadium upgrade

The Government is providing $15 million of the $60 million needed to upgrade AMI Stadium in Christchurch. Photo / Getty Images

The Government has announced a $15 million grant for the upgrade of Christchurch's AMI stadium for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Prime Minister John Key said today it would go towards the $60 million needed for the stadium's redevelopment project.

"The Rugby World Cup will be a massive event for New Zealand. It will attract many thousands of visitors. Venues for games must be up to scratch," he said.

"The Christchurch City Council has committed a significant amount of money to this project. This ensures they are well placed to host Rugby World Cup games and it provides a long-lasting legacy for the people of Christchurch and the wider region."

Mr Key said the grant was alongside the $15 million recently confirmed for the development of a new stadium in Dunedin.

The grant to Dunedin was based on the expectation that the new stadium would be ready and available to host Rugby World Cup games.

"The Rugby World Cup has proven a timely catalyst for a number of infrastructure developments, including stadia," he said.

"The world's spotlight will be on us and we want to make the most of the opportunity."

- NZPA