RWC 2011: Kiwis to open their homes
Thu, 24 Dec 2009 11:09
The ultimate prize: The Webb Ellis Trophy
New Zealand's ability to satisfy demand for accommodation during the Rugby World Cup in 2011 is under the spotlight and private homeowners are expected to take up the shortfall.
With about 35,000 casual visitors expected during the Rugby World Cup in 2011, and other fans using official packages, the New Zealand Government will link foreign rugby fans with Kiwis willing to open their homes.
There would be no shortage of accommodation during the first month of competition, because games would be spread around the country but the risk arises during the last 17 because the games would be concentrated in the three main centres.
Therefore, plans are already under way to provide an extra 6000 beds by using three cruise liners to act as floating hotels during the tournament. Up until the quarterfinal games, two would be moored at Wellington and one at Lyttelton and all three would then travel to Auckland for the semifinal and final games.
However, with about 35,000 casual visitors also having to find accommodation, it is up to the New Zealand Government to make the best possible arrangements.
"We will be working with the Government and the IRB [International Rugby Board] to ensure that there is a mechanism ... so that free, independent travellers can find out where they can secure their accommodation," Rugby NZ 2011 chief executive Martin Snedden told The Press .
"The idea of home hosting is something that has huge appeal," he said.
About 300 hotels has guaranteed about 60 percent of their beds at set rates.
"This is a major focus for Government," he said.
"This is one of the major reasons they are investing in the Rugby World Cup, to drive the free, independent travel market."
Plans were under way for a "linking mechanism" that would bring accommodation options under one banner.
Homestays would appeal to some visitors.
"The whole rationale for private homes is not an accommodation shortage, it's event experience," Snedden said.
Meanwhile, The All Blacks' World Cup rematch with France will be the most expensive ticket at the 2011 tournament outside of the playoff matches as prices were announced varying from NZ$ 15 to NZ$ 1250.
Tournament organisers have kept to their promise to largely follow the pricing from the 2007 tournament in France although some tickets will be significantly cheaper and a few more expensive.
Tickets to the final start at NZ$ 390 and peak at NZ$ 1250.
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