SkyCity Entertainment is seeking damages of over NZ$330m from the construction company responsible for its New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), after years of delays on the project.
SkyCity is alleging breaches of contract from Fletchers, including gross negligence and/or a “persistent, flagrant or wilful neglect to carry out obligations under the building works contract.”
The New Zealand and Australia casino operator pointed to the 2019 fire at the NZICC as a key grievance in its case.
SkyCity said it is beginning legal proceedings after failing to agree a settlement out of court with Fletchers.
SkyCity said it had “contractually agreed” a January 2019 delivery date for the NZICC with Fletchers but that the project is now nearly six-and-a-half years behind schedule.
“The NZICC was originally scheduled to take approximately three years to build, and it has now taken almost 10,” said SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge.
“This is a project of key importance not only for SkyCity but also Auckland and the wider New Zealand economy.”
Walbridge said SkyCity remains “confident” of a February 2026 opening date and expects the NZICC to be handed over by Fletchers later this year.
“We are ramping up for opening with recruitment for key positions already underway and exciting plans to celebrate finally being able to open our doors and welcome visitors to enjoy the world-class experience we will have on offer.”
In a statement to RNZ, Fletchers said: “Whilst the delivery of the NZICC project has suffered from a number of challenges, including as a consequence of the fire and Covid-related impacts, Fletcher Building rejects absolutely that it has breached its contract with SkyCity in the manner alleged.
"Accordingly, Fletcher Construction will vigorously defend itself against the SkyCity claim for further liquidated damages beyond the capped amount provided for in the building works contract."
