Government Commits $15 million for AMI Stadium
The New Zealand Government has announced a $15 million grant towards the upgrade of Christchurch's AMI Stadium in advance of the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
New Zealand Prime Minster John Key confirmed that a grant of $15 million will be provided to go towards the venue's $60 million redevelopment project, noting that the investment sits alongside the $15 million recently confirmed for development of a new stadium in Dunedin.
Prime Minister Key (pictured) stated "the Rugby World Cup has proven a timely catalyst for a number of infrastructure developments, including stadia. With an estimated global TV audience of around four billion, the world's spotlight will be on us, and we want to make the most of the opportunity.
"The Government's role as a partner in Rugby World Cup 2011 involves both helping put on a successful tournament and maximising the longer-term benefits for New Zealand.
"Improving stadia achieves both (those aims)."
Prime Minster Key added that "the redevelopment of Auckland's Eden Park has received considerable government funding, and it is pleasing to be able to support the development of this important infrastructure in Christchurch and Dunedin as well.
"Such development also builds our capability to host future major events, which bring their own economic, social and cultural benefits."
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