Stadium arguments RWC 'headache'

The problems with Dunedin's new rugby stadium had created headaches for the Rugby World Cup organisers next year, the tournament's boss said yesterday.

Rugby New Zealand 2011 chief executive Martin Snedden said the uncertainty about Dunedin's new $200 million stadium and when it would be completed had made things a little difficult for organisers.

The idea of a new stadium to replace Carisbrook has faced opposition from sections of the community for the past few years.

Speaking at the Trenz tourism conference in Auckland, Mr Snedden said he had visited the site recently and the feeling was the stadium would be finished in time for the tournament, but only just.

"Has it created a headache for us? Yeah," Mr Snedden said.

"I think the people of Otago are waiting to get some real confidence that it will be finished."

The capacity would be roughly the same as Carisbrook and overseas fans did not care where in Dunedin the games would be held, he said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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