Dunedin 'back with a bang'
Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:41
The All Blacks' test against World Cup holders South Africa at Carisbrook on July 12 is expected to restore Dunedin's reputation as a "rugby city" and as one of the best Test match hosts in the world.
It will be the first test in Dunedin since 2005 and Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) chief executive Richard Reid said all the signs were pointing to the city regaining its reputation as the host of Test matches with a unique festival atmosphere.
"This will be my first, but I'm well aware of the reputation that Dunedin does a test like no other city," he said.
The popular tent village, not matched by any other test venue, will again be in place.
"The Test marks the 100th anniversary of the first test at Carisbrook in 1908 so we're doing everything we can to make the occasion memorable," Reid said.
The union has adopted a region-wide approach to the match and has convened a working party that includes representatives from Southland and North Otago.
The first opportunity to buy tickets will be in two weeks when people involved in rugby such as club members, volunteers, schools and former players, will have the chance to get in first.
People who live south of the Waitaki will also be given a chance to buy tickets ahead of the public release. That will be in early June.
The nationwide sale, which will incorporate other Tests in New Zealand, will be launched later in June.
"This is our Test and we're making tickets available first to our people," Reid said.
"This is a chance we all have to show the rest of New Zealand that Dunedin tests are special events, ones that are not just about a rugby match but about a whole festive weekend."
