Rugby fever to hit Hawke's Bay Opera House

Rugby fever will come alive at the Hawke’s Bay Opera House during the World Cup.

An official IRB RWC 2011 fan zone will be hosted by the Opera House which will cater for those who can’t get to the semi finals, final and the hugely anticipated clash between the All Blacks and France.

Hawke’s Bay Opera House General Manager Roger Coleman says” we will be showing the games on a massive screen in the main Opera House theatre. The pictures will be accompanied by outstanding sound so fans will feel as if they are in the thick of the action”.

The games to be shown at the Opera House include the All Blacks vs France match on September 24th, both semifinals on the 15th and 16th October and the final on the 23rd of October.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says” the Opera House will be the hub of the “Having a Ball Festival” in Hastings but it’s not just about rugby. We’ll also have some fantastic entertainment before the games, making it a great night out for the whole family.”

Mr Yule says” Hastings residents and visitors alike should make the Opera House central to their activities on those nights-it’ll be the best party in town.”

Other events taking place in Hastings as part of the “Having a Ball Festival” include Epicurious, a weekend of fun, food and entertainment, the Rugby Haka and Hangi Festival and Game On at the Hastings City Art Gallery, a world class exhibition of contemporary art.

“Large numbers of overseas visitors will be in the country during the cup and there will be a huge television audience watching the matches. It’s up to all residents to ensure they take every chance to reinforce our regions great lifestyle opportunities and share our top class wine, food and entertainment experiences” Mr Yule says.

There will be free entry to the Opera House fan zone for all four matches.