Key backs proposal to shift league to Eden Park

The Prime Minister's backing a proposal to shift rugby league to Eden Park.

It's part of Auckland Council's strategic direction for the city's stadia, to save money and make better use of them.

John Key says it's a better option than forking out 60 million dollars for an upgrade to Mt Smart Stadium.

"As we know, sports stadiums fundamentally don't make money. They generally lose money everywhere so the only way to get near making some cash out of them is to utilise them more."

He says people who live in the area will just have to deal with it.

"When you buy a house around Eden Park, you know what's happening. You know it's a big sporting facility and you know people are going to turn up and watch events. I think if you don't want to do that, you don't live there."

"Isn't that the point of having a supercity? That you can consolidate your infrastructure and get to a point where you save the ratepayers' money and utilise its facilities more."

Eden Park Neighbours' Association is concerned more fixtures will put more pressure on roads around the park.

Deputy mayor Penny Hulse says the proposal isn't designed to annoy neighbours.

"If anything it aims to work with surrounding community and make sure that Eden Park works well into the future."

Ms Hulse says they'll undertake a workshop with Regional Facilities Auckland and seek more public consultation before a decision is made.

Photo: Eden Park (Photosport)