14 Feb 2021

Auckland University plans to sell controversial $5m mansion

1:28 pm on 14 February 2021

The University of Auckland is set to sell a controversial mansion bought for its vice-chancellor.

The $5 million Parnell house bought by Auckland University for its vice chancellor.

A $5 million Parnell house bought by Auckland University for its vice-chancellor is now up for sale. Photo: RNZ / Nick Monro

The $5 million home in Parnell was bought by the university in December 2019, when vice-chancellor Dawn Freshwater arrived.

Last year, an investigation by the Auditor-General found the university failed to provide a business case for the purchase.

The vice-chancellor recommended the sale to help the university's financial position, which has been hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The house is now on the market.

A university spokesperson said the vice-chancellor had moved to private accommodation and would not receive a future rental allowance.

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