Rugby World Cup 2011

"Rugby World Cup 2011 provides us with an opportunity to showcase Auckland to the world and establish the region as a desirable major events destination."

We are working with key organisations from throughout the Auckland region to help prepare for Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011).

The Auckland region's focus is to ensure RWC 2011 is an event that all Aucklanders can be proud of, be involved in, and benefit from.

Held every four years, RWC is the third biggest sporting event in the world. The 2011 tournament has an estimated television audience of more than four billion people worldwide.

We expect at least 60,000 international visitors to come to New Zealand with Auckland as the main entry point. About 2000 international media are also expected to be in New Zealand.

RWC 2011 has the potential to generate $267 million of direct economic benefits for the Auckland region. It will be a catalyst for major infrastructure improvements providing long-term benefits for residents, eg a revitalised city centre, new roads and upgraded public transport.

• New Zealand won the hosting rights to RWC 2011 on 17 November 2005.
• Twenty countries will participate in the 2011 tournament, playing 48 games.
• The final will be held at Eden Park in Auckland on 23 October with the semi-finals at the same venue the weekend before.
• Auckland will also host eight pool matches, including the opening match at Eden Park on 9 September, and the bronze final (third and fourth play-off).
• Organisational responsibilities will be shared between the International Rugby Board (IRB), Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd (RNZ 2011), Government, local authorities and key sporting stadiums around the country.
• RNZ 2011 will confirm team bases by the end of 2009.

For more information on Auckland's preparations for RWC 2011 visit Auckland's Rugby World Cup 2011 website.