Rain will not dampen the spirit at Lions decider in Auckland

Rugby fans will have the chance to paint the stadium black and red at Eden Park tonight. Photo/Greg Bowker

Heavy fog has lifted over Auckland after some panic that cancelled and delayed flights could affect rugby fans making their way to the city for tonight's big game.

The odd shower is expected during tonight's All Blacks and Lions decider at Eden Park, but not enough to dampen the spirit of rugby-goers.

Aucklanders woke to a murky start to the day with fog covering parts of the city and cancelling about 14 domestic flights and delaying 17.

Rugby fans travelling to Auckland from Gisborne, Nelson, Palmerston North, Napier, Tauranga, Taupo and Bay of Islands were affected.

WeatherWatch said the chance of rain this afternoon was fairly low however, they couldn't rule out a shower or two.

After sunset clouds are set to thicken as rain that is over the Tasman Sea moves eastwards towards Auckland.

"At this stage it looks mostly dry for the game - but a chance of a shower and towards the end of the game a chance the rain may be nearby. Hopefully it holds off until midnight or later," said WeatherWatch.

More than 20,000 Lions supporters were expected at Eden Park tonight, raising the prospect of All Blacks fans being significantly outnumbered.

But All Blacks supporters can mark their territory by helping "black out" Eden Park.

Fans at tonight's game will be given what looks and feels like a tin of paint - with their choice of black or red - to throw their support at the stadium wall.

Do not fear - no walls will be harmed in the process. The tins do not contain paint but are fitted with devices that measure the direction and force of the throw, which is then translated into a visual graphic instantly projected on to the stadium.

The 28 metre by 15 metre light projection is believed to be a first in New Zealand with fans controlling the display.

The paint throw will mark the end of Air New Zealand's long-running #ProjectBlackout campaign.

Air New Zealand general manager of global brand and content marketing Jodi Williams said the activation should be a lot of fun for fans.

"Much like the on-field action, we're hoping to see some real competition between the Kiwi and Lions fans as they attempt to cover the stadium wall in either black or red.

"Naturally though we'd like to complete project blackout this weekend with a win and by showing our support in a spectacular way against the backdrop of Eden Park."

Fans who want to throw their support at the stadium tonight should visit the Air New Zealand cabin crew who will be located inside Gate A of the stadium (entry off Walters Rd).

You can also join in on the fun from home and have your virtual paint splat appear at the stadium along with their Facebook profile photo here.