Wellington Region Unveils Cup Website | infonews.co.nz New Zealand News

The focus on the Wellington region's readiness for Rugby World Cup 2011 was given a high-profile boost today, with the launch of WellingtonNZ2011.com, a new online portal or one-stop-shop for anyone wanting to know anything about RWC 2011 in the region.

Wellington City Council's Derek Fry, Chair of the Regional Coordination Group, says the website's look is unashamedly big, bright and bold. "Like the tournament itself, and the associated festival we're planning, it's going to be huge."

WellingtonNZ2011.com is designed as a portal that provides key details and points audiences in the direction they need to go, rather than replicating information already available. More links and information will be added as the tournament start-date approaches.

"The new website is a stake in the ground for us. It says we're ready for RWC 2011 and we're going to make it a success for everyone involved; whether that be locals, visitors, media or businesses.

The website features a new visual identity, designed to communicate the style in which the Wellington region hosts major events.

"Whether it's the NZI Sevens, a red carpet premiere or a Phoenix play-off, Wellington throws an unsurpassed party. This identity captures that energy and excitement. It's a genuine statement of how exciting RWC 2011 and its associated festival of rugby are going to be, and how important it is to our region," says Derek.

"We're estimating RWC 2011 could be worth around $45 million to the region. So we're rolling out the welcome mat and are committed to ensuring visitors and locals have an unsurpassed experience in September and October 2011. This is going to be the Wellington region's chance to shine."

People will soon be seeing a lot more of the region's event brand, Derek says.

"You'll eventually be seeing everything from flags and banners to cars, apparel and more, all branded with this look. We want visitors to be able to drive through Wellington city, the Hutt, the Wairarapa, Porirua and up the Kapiti Coast, and know they're in a region that's truly behind this tournament and what it means to the region and the country."

The Regional Coordination Group is tasked with planning the Wellington region's RWC 2011 activities. Wellington City Council represents the region's local authorities on the group, which also consists of representatives from Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington Rugby Football Union, Positively Wellington Tourism, Greater Wellington Regional Council and New Zealand Police.