New 'fanzones' for Auckland ahead of event-filled summer

Auckland City's public spaces will be transformed into 'fanzones' over the summer. Photo / Richard Robinson

Auckland City's public spaces will be transformed into 'fanzones' to allow the public to fully engage with a bumper summer of international events that includes the ICC Cricket World Cup, NRL Nines and Volvo Ocean Race stopover.

A family-friendly 'urban village green' at Takutai Square will play host to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Fanzone, featuring a range of interactive activities and live match coverage on the big screen.

A walking Fan Trail from the city to Eden Park will be activated for all three Auckland pool matches, with an adopt-a-second team and street dressing programme to engage town-centres throughout the region, in the lead-up to and during the tournament.

The Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines Festival and Fanzone will be at Aotea Square from Friday 30 January to Sunday 1 February. The events will kick-off on Friday with an opportunity to meet 288 players from all 16 NRL teams.

When the Volvo Ocean Race Village opens, Auckland's Eastern Viaduct, Te Wero Island and Halsey Wharf will be transformed in anticipation of the fleet arrival for the 17-day stopover.

The packed programme of activities includes live music and entertainment, all match races on the big screen and the 'Have a Go' programme - giving people a free opportunity to experience sailing.

Auckland Mayor Len Brown said the fanzones would provide opportunities for Aucklanders and visitors to enjoy the family-friendly summer events action.

"Major events play an important role in helping Auckland to become the world's most liveable city," Mr Brown said. "I'm encouraging locals and visitors to experience the stellar line-up of sport, art, culture and music events.

"The Nines Fanzone will have a strong league feel with activities and live entertainment throughout the weekend. It will be the next best thing to being at the event at Eden Park."

Mr Brown also urged Aucklanders to get behind the Cricket World Cup.

"It will be a privilege to host the world's best cricketers here in Auckland and our aim is to bring the tournament to life across the region for everyone to enjoy," he said.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (Ateed) chief executive Brett O'Riley says he expects this summer to be the biggest on record for events in Auckland.

"We're on track to reach one million events-related visitor nights since the launch of Ateed's Major Events Strategy three years ago," Mr O'Riley said.