Six60 perform at Eden Park. Photo: Supplied/Six60
A concert promoter says the government is being "wishful" in thinking Eden Park could host 32 concerts a year.
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has written to Auckland Council with an eye on loosening restrictions on Eden Park's operations which he says are costing hundreds of millions of dollars in lost revenue.
In September, Bishop commissioned the consultancy Incite to investigate local planning rules at Eden Park, which limit the stadium to just 12 concerts a year.
The report, published on Wednesday, recommended allowing another 20 concerts every year on top of that for between 10,000 and 30,000 attendees.
The government is now seeking feedback from the public and council on the findings.
Concert promoter and Eccles Entertainment founder Brent Eccles said his jaw dropped when he heard the news.
"I can't imagine in what world we'd get 32 shows at Eden Park, unless their thinking that's the only venue we use in Auckland. There just aren't that many stadium shows to come through New Zealand," Eccles told Morning Report.
"It'd be wishful thinking."
He praised the government for setting the goal of 32 concerts there and seeking to remove some of the "red tape" involved with concerts and Eden Park.
"Every venue has its own place. Eden Park is the jewel in the crown... It's a very expensive venue," he said.
"I'd like the idea of having a central focus that everyone can look at and say 'okay, I'll aim to go here' but you need to consider the artist as well."
But he said the cost of freight and touring is becoming greater, causing higher ticket prices.
"It makes it more difficult to come to New Zealand, more difficult then it has been in recent times," Eccles said.
"Except now the government is putting money into it to boost the financial equation to get these artists here.
"It's all going in the right direction but a little bit of reality is not being considered."
When asked whether Taylor Swift would ever come to New Zealand, Eccles said "yes".
"Hopefully, the voices will be so loud in New Zealand she will recognise that she will want to come here next time."
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