Rugby brings tourists

KERI MOLLOY

Make the most of it.

That's the word from mayor Wayne Brown as a series of international rugby events promise to bring thousands of visitors into the Far North.

Big games include a Super 14 Blues v Hurricanes match at the Kerikeri Domain in February. Northland will also host teams from Tonga, Japan and Canada during the Rugby World Cup.

Mr Brown has been in Auckland learning about world cup preparations and opportunities. He says the domain upgrade, presently under way, and the creation of a grandstand attached to the old rugby club building is crucial to the success of these events.

Northland will host Canada, Tonga and Japan for 28 days during the world cup pool play, as all three train and stay in the Bay of Islands and Whangarei.

The world cup is seen as an opportunity to showcase Northland and its attractions to the teams and their many supporters – and a potential cumulative worldwide television audience of billions.

Having teams based here is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits.

A study by consultants Horwath Asia Pacific estimates Northland stands to gain up to $9 million.

The study estimates another $27.5m will come Northland's way through "general touring" – 70 percent of it during the last fortnight – bringing the overall regional impact from the tourism and match perspective to about $36.5m.

Northland 2011, the group co-ordinating the north's Rugby World Cup 2011 planning and operational delivery, is keen for people from around Northland to get involved.

It is looking for a range of people who are enthusiastic, dedicated and committed to serving and hosting visitors.

Volunteers will receive training to enhance their skills and abilities, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be involved in this international event.

Applications for the New Zealand 2011 Festival Lottery Fund are now open and close on September 17.

Successful individuals and groups will be announced in November.

New Zealand 2011 festival director Briony Ellis says Northland has already put forward some great ideas for the festival.

"We know Northlanders have great ideas about how to showcase their region's heritage, arts, food and wine, entertainment, experiences and lifestyle," she says.

"There will be plenty of time between games, so we want to encourage international visitors and travelling Kiwis to take the long way around from one match to the next, and see the country and meet the people. The festival will be a great way to do that."

Event organisers throughout Northland are encouraged to build on their local programmes and take their new or emerging ideas to Northland 2011 for discussion. All communities are invited to develop project outlines, with supporting budget plans and to submit their applications.

Regional festival co-ordinator Kate Claydon is keen to hear from groups considering staging a festival event in Northland during the six weeks of the tournament.

Call Kate on 021-029- 27171, or email: kate@collectiveconcepts.co.nz. Northlanders can get involved by visiting the Northland 2011 website www.northland2011.com.

- Bay Chronicle