World Cup: Queens Wharf Party Central schedule

The Rugby World Cup opening celebrations at the Cloud venure include an official welcome, music and the opening game of the tournament. Photo / supplied

Thousands of people are expected to attend the celebrations for the Rugby World Cup opening in central Auckland on Friday.

Celebrations at the Queens Wharf kick off at 4pm, building towards the opening game of the Rugby World Cup betwen New Zealand and Tonga at 8.15pm.

For those planning to join in the fun, check out the nzherald.co.nz's transport survival guide.

Queens Wharf Party Central schedule

3pm: Gates open

4pm: Te Herenga Waka - A fleet of 20 waka arrive

4.40pm: Dave Dobbyn performs the song Welcome Home

5pm: Kaihoe (waka paddlers) procession and mass haka

5.55pm: Welcome from Auckland Mayor Len Brown, followed by haka

6.10pm: Neil and Tim Finn perform

7.30pm: Opening ceremony from Eden Park broadcast on large screens

8pm: Sound and light show All Lit Up, with music composed by Don McGlashan

8.15pm: Opening match between New Zealand and Tonga live from Eden Park on the large screens.

10.15pm: Dane Rumble performs

10.45pm: Midnight Youth

11.30pm: Kora

12.50pm: DJ Manuel Bundy perform

2am: Queens Wharf closes