Editorial: Sevens fair game

OPINION: Anyone still smarting over Wellington's poaching of the World of WearableArt Awards show will be sporting a huge grin at news that the capital might have to fight in order to keep "its" leg of the international Sevens tournament. The Wellington City Council has, rather cheekily, attempted to strike a deal for permanent rights to host the tournament with the New Zealand Rugby Union. Showing rare wisdom, the NZRU has turned the council down, preferring a regular tendering process.

Wellington is a splendid host for the annual tournament. Its stadium is right in the heart of the city, an easy stroll to Courtenay Place and the waterfront bars and cafes – and it is well-served with inner-city accommodation. More than that, Wellington people enter the spirit of the tournament, big-time. Despite the skills and flair that Sevens exponents bring to the playing field, the real playground is in the stands. As much as being part of an international sporting tournament, the Sevens is the catalyst for the country's biggest fancy-dress party. Wellingtonians (and those who flock to the capital for the weekend, contributing just under $16 million to the regional economy) take their part in the event – having fun – as seriously as the leading players take theirs.

Not surprisingly, news that at least two other regions are putting their hands up for a share of the tournament has Wellington smarting. The poacher's attempts to turn gamekeeper will be seen by the rest of the country for what it is, and the wailing should be dismissed accordingly. If Dunedin or Auckland can put up a better case to run the tournament in future, good luck to them.

Dunedin is suggesting a whole week of activities around Sevens weekend as a way of showcasing its expensive and controversial new 30,000 seat stadium. If it can bring something fresh to the event, why not? Auckland Mayor John Banks suggests it should head north if only to stop Dunedin getting it. With Auckland having lost one of its biggest drawcards, the Ellerslie Flower Show, to Christchurch, it is surprising that Mr Banks cannot think of a better reason to support his city's bid for the Sevens than that. Presumably he will eventually engage his brain, or an army of consultants, and put together a proper pitch for the NZRU to consider.

Competition for top events like this is a double-edged sword. Nelson could not compete with Wellington's bid for the Wearables. It had neither the venue, the potential audience nor the financial muscle that the capital threw into the mix. Its case was compelling enough that the WOW team – aware that their baby needed to grow – had no choice other than to accept. Clearly, their event benefited significantly from the switch. So, too, has the capital.

A bidding war will no doubt be welcomed by the rugby union, as would the prospect of fresh enthusiasm and ideas for the tournament. The question is, what checks and balances are there to stop ratepayer-funded council enthusiasm for leading events from getting out of hand? Big money is at stake. Some businesses undoubtedly benefit from the major tournaments and festivals, and they bring colour and vibrancy with them. But other than that, the benefit to ratepayers is arguable.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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