Anniversary Adds Importance to Rugby World Cup Hosting

The hosting of five teams in New Plymouth for the Rugby World Cup will coincide with an important anniversary for one of the hosted teams.

The USA Eagles will be based in New Plymouth for 10 days during the tournament, and will play two matches at Stadium Taranaki – against Ireland and the Europe 2 qualifier.

The Ireland vs USA match will be held on the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

“It’s an important anniversary for the players, and we’ll make sure that throughout their time in New Plymouth they feel at home and have the support of Taranaki behind them as they prepare for these matches,” says Mayor Peter Tennent.

Five international rugby teams will be staying in New Plymouth during the tournament.

The city will host the USA for 10 nights, Ireland and Namibia for four nights, and Wales and the Europe 2 qualifier for three.

“It’s fantastic news to be able to host five teams during the tournament,” says Mayor Pete.

“Taranaki residents will be looking after all of these players as extended members of their own families, and the players in turn will become ambassadors for New Plymouth District when they return home from the tournament.

“But spare a thought for those teams who have been left out and won’t be able to have New Plymouth as their home base. The USA in particular will benefit from being able to experience more of the lifestyle that makes New Plymouth the Top Town of New Zealand.”

The three pool matches at Stadium Taranaki are Ireland vs USA, Europe 2 vs USA, and Wales vs Namibia.

TET Stadium in Inglewood will be the training ground for Namibia and USA, while New Plymouth Boys’ High School will be the training ground of Ireland, Wales and the Europe 2 qualifier.

Of the 23 cities hosting teams, only Wellington (nine teams), Auckland (eight), Christchurch (seven) and Dunedin (six) have more than New Plymouth. Both Rotorua and Hamilton are also hosting five teams.