SkyCity adds new air bridge to convention centre

Reconstruction has begun a year after the centre was destroyed by fire. SkyCity will also open a new bar and music venue. 

New Zealand.- A year after a fire destroyed its convention centre in Auckland, SkyCity reached a milestone this week when its new air bridge was lifted into place.  

The 85-tonne, 30m-long pedestrian bridge was built near Palmerston North and brought in at night. It connects the convention centre’s hotel with the casino over Hobson Street, 11 meters above the ground.

An accidental fire destroyed the upper floors and roof at the SkyCity Convention Centre in October 2019. The reconstruction is set to finish by 2023.

SkyCity also announced this week the opening of its new bar and live music venue, Flare, at the heart of its Auckland casino.  

Chief Operating Officer Michael Ahearne says Flare is a casually elegant bar and lounge combining the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas with the down-to-earth service and hospitality of New Zealand.

It represents an AU$50 million (US$35.6 million) upgrade of SkyCity Auckland, which for now will be aimed at domestic customers.  

Flare will be launched with a VIP party on Friday October 30. 

The company said: “SkyCity is proud to be working with the New Zealand music industry to support and showcase local talent, still feeling the effects of Covid-19 related cancellations and postponements.

“Flare will feature a broad range of live music including acoustic/solo pop, soul/funk, jazz and R n B every Thursday to Sunday night.”