13 Nov 2013

Know when to hold 'em

8:05 am on 13 November 2013

Opponents of the Government's SkyCity convention centre deal say they're gravely concerned about the effect on Auckland now that legislation cementing the agreement has been passed. The deal allows SkyCity to expand its gaming operations in return for building the $402 million complex in Auckland.

SkyCity will have its Auckland casino licence extended until 2048 and can operate 230 extra gaming machines and 52 more gaming tables. The New Zealand International Convention Centre Bill which puts the agreement in place was passed in a conscience vote of 61 to 59 on Tuesday. The Labour and Green parties voted against the bill.