Auckland Showgrounds is set to continue operating as an events and exhibition centre under an agreement between landowner the Cornwall Park Trust Board (CPTB) and new operator the NZ Exhibition & Events Company (NZEEC).
Chair Adrienne Young-Cooper said having a new operator in place within a month of the previous operator going into voluntary liquidation was a tremendous outcome, and the result of a lot of hard work by the CPTB, the liquidator, and the new operator.
“We have said right from the start that we were prepared to support any workable proposal that would allow the Showgrounds to continue to operate,” said Ms Young-Cooper.
“We are very pleased the NZEEC has developed a solution that minimises disruption to potential exhibitors and to the public.”
Ms Young-Cooper said the NZEEC had agreed to a 12-month licence to operate.
“The agreement with NZEEC allows this facility to keep running while we fully evaluate options for the Showgrounds’ long-term operating structure.”
NZEEC director Mark Frankham said he was pleased the Showgrounds would resume its role as New Zealand’s leading exhibition and events venue.
Mr Frankham, who managed the Showgrounds for the previous operator, said the CPTB’s quick action in securing the assets and infrastructure required for the Showgrounds to operate, would greatly smooth the transition.
“We are already in discussion with exhibitors who held previous bookings, as well as considering a range of other possible proposals,” said Mr Frankham.
“I am delighted that we will soon be welcoming businesses and the public back to the Showgrounds.”