Rugby World Cup 2011 Updates
Communities throughout the Auckland region will get a taste of Rugby World Cup 2011 action, with today's announcement that at least 12 teams will be based in Auckland during the Tournament.Teams will train at seven different venues throughout Auckland from Silverdale in the north to The Trusts Stadium in the west and Lloyd Elsmore Park in the southeast. Other training venues selected include Western Springs Stadium, Mt Smart Stadium, Onewa Domain and North Harbour Stadium.
Auckland RWC 2011 spokesperson Michael Barnett says today's announcement sends a message about how widespread the benefits of RWC 2011 will be for Auckland.
"This is a great opportunity for all those venues involved in hosting teams, as well as their suppliers and other local businesses called upon to provide goods and services to support the team hosting programme."
Auckland's RWC 2011 Regional Steering Group Chair Rachael Dacy says Auckland is already working together to maximise the benefits of RWC 2011 and today's announcement is a significant milestone.
"One of the key benefits of hosting a mega event such as RWC 2011 is the legacy it leaves for Auckland. Today's announcement ensures that the long term benefits will be spread throughout the region," Ms Dacy says.
"Training venues and other infrastructure will be upgraded and the upgraded facilities will benefit their respective communities.
Ms Dacy says the training venue upgrades are part of a wider programme of infrastructure improvements across the Auckland region providing long-term benefits for Auckland residents. These include improvements in roading, public transport, stadiums and the waterfront.
"Aucklanders would not have access to improved amenities if it wasn't for RWC 2011," Ms Dacy says.
Auckland has a comprehensive programme of work in place to prepare for the Tournament and maximise the benefits the event brings to the whole region.
"From school programmes to volunteers, to business opportunities and 'adopt a second team' initiatives, we are working to ensure RWC 2011 is an event that all Aucklanders can be proud of, be involved in and benefit from, not just rugby fans.
