Stadium solution can work for everyone

Dunedin based Green Party MP Metiria Turei says that a new stadium is not the best solution for Dunedin’s sporting or social needs.

“There is no doubt that Dunedin’s community is passionate about their sports. There is an obvious need for a premier sporting venue, but it has not been established that a new stadium is wanted or beneficial to the Dunedin community.”

“As we try to change our current road dominated model of living, does Dunedin want or need a stadium built on prime land next to a port and a rail way line?

“There are many people living in Dunedin whose living standards are precarious. We want their needs to be given the highest priority so that we can raise the collective living standards of Dunedin.

“We cannot afford to spend a great deal of money on a single corporate citizen, while ignoring the plight of others.”

“The most sensible course of action would be to develop the tradition of Carisbrook for the professional age of rugby. Rather than spend millions on a dead industrial zone in the hope that somebody goes there, we should prioritise a much needed economic and social boost to South Dunedin communities.

The Green Party solution is not to build an expensive new stadium but to value the traditions and history of what we already have – Carisbrook - and develop it accordingly.”