Mr Cocks told the Otago Daily Times this week he continues to support the council's $58million proposal, with ratepayer funding of up to $32.5million - mostly from the hotel and commercial property sector.
Mr Cocks is likely to be challenged for the mayoralty by Queenstown businessman Jim Boult, who announced in Mountain Scene last week he had changed his mind on the convention centre.
Mr Boult said he did not support the council-funded convention centre.
"I support a convention centre, but one that is paid for by others, not ratepayers.''
Mr Boult said his view had changed as the country's economy improved.
"Matters have moved on - council no longer needs to be the catalyst,'' he told Mountain Scene.
Mr Cocks said this week he supported the council's involvement, which was in line with its economic development strategy.
"We have selected a site, developed a proposal and produced an indicative funding model with the proposed level of investment from rates.
"Following consultation this was adopted in the current 10-year plan.
"The council proposal is subject to significant external funding, as is my support.
"My view has been consistent throughout the development of this proposal.''
