Rugby World Cup comes to Christchurch

Christchurch rugby fans will get the chance to see the coveted Webb Ellis Cup next week as part of a Rugby World Cup 2011(RWC 2011) national tour

The Cup will be on display at Christchurch Art Gallery next Thursday morning, 20 May, from 6.30am to 9am.

The visit is part of a tour of five New Zealand towns and cities next week to mark the closing date for applications for Venue and Team Pool Packs for RWC 2011 on Friday May 21.

TVNZ Breakfast weather presenter Tamati Coffey will be broadcasting live from the Art Gallery and running an "Adopt a Second Team" competition in conjunction with tournament organisers Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ 2011).

Local fans are being urged to come dressed in the colours of their second favourite team and see the Cup. The best dressed fan will win two Venue Packs to Stadium Christchurch's RWC 2011 pool matches. All fans will be are encouraged to visit and have their photo taken with the Cup.

Hundreds of Wellington commuters paused to have their photo taken at the city's railway station when the Cup was on display last month and Christchurch fans are expected in huge numbers too.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says this is the first opportunity for Christchurch residents to experience Rugby World Cup 2011 fever.

"I am looking forward to viewing the Cup in Christchurch and I'm sure rugby fans will relish the opportunity to get up close to the trophy which everyone is talking about.

"Christchurch is planning now for what is set to be a thrilling RWC 2011 Tournament. We will play host to five pool matches and two quarterfinals and there will be a real festival atmosphere throughout the city and at our official Fan Zone in Cathedral Square.

"Make sure you head down to the Art Gallery next Thursday to have a look at what all the fuss is about - I look forward to seeing you there," he says

Full details on the Rugby New Zealand 2011/TVNZ Breakfast "Adopt a Second Team" competition are available at www.tvnz.co.nz/breakfast

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