Rugby World Cup 'Cloud' venue to host trade expo

The $9.8 million 'Cloud' venue being built at Auckland's Queen's Wharf will host trade displays for New Zealand industries during the Rugby World Cup.
The venue is adjacent to 'Party Central' where fans will watch games on big screens and listen to live performers, a $2 million plastic waka to promote Maori culture, a giant $12 million rugby ball and the refurbished Shed 10, being renovated at a cost of $4 million, that will be used as a terminal for two cruise ships during the Rugby World Cup.
Promoters expect the 178 metre-long Cloud will also promote other events such as fashion shows, a food and beverage expo and wine tastings as part of the Real New Zealand Festival "to celebrate all things New Zealand".
Prime Minister John Key last year dubbed Queen's Wharf 'Party Central' for the 85,000 overseas visitors expected to come for the Cup.
He also described the Cloud as a "great venue to showcase the best of New Zealand".
However, Auckland Council member Mike Lee believes that the Government over-hyped the entertainment aspect of Queens Wharf.
The New Zealand Herald has reported that Councillor Lee believes Prime Minister Key had over-emphasised the theme of 'Party Central' at the waterfront, stating "sure there's going to be a lot of big parties, but also some serious work on promoting New Zealand and it's multiple tourist attractions."
Auckland Waterfront Development Agency Chairman Bob Harvey said any belief that the Cloud would be a "beer barn" was mistaken, adding "I never thought it would be a huge bar. People didn't want a bunch of international drunks. That's not what we intended to do ... Trade stalls are completely appropriate.
"Auckland has not seen (the Cloud) lit yet. It will be a dazzling, beautiful structure right (that) Auckland will fall in love with it."
Unveiling plans for the Cloud in October last year, Prime Minister Key said its exciting design, alongside developments at the Wynyard Quarter, would do a great job of opening up the Auckland waterfront to the public and 85,000 overseas visitors.
Prime Minister Key explained "Queens Wharf will be at the heart of the celebrations. The facilities on the wharf will not only enable the public to enjoy the games in a unique atmosphere but offer live events and a great venue to showcase the best of New Zealand."
VIP and media functions will also be held on the Cloud's mezzanine floor, which is already booked for delegates to the Pacific Island Leaders Forum the week before the Cup tournament.
Tourism New Zealand will also open a site to point visitors towards local attractions and other tourism opportunities throughout the country.