Football: Phoenix to play in Taupo

Wellington Phoenix v New Zealand A at Rotorua last year.

The Wellington Phoenix will play a pre-season game in Taupo against the New Zealand A team.

The teams will meet at Owen Delany Park at 1.30pm on Sunday, August 17. It will be a one-off game that is expected to attract football enthusiasts from around the North Island.

Mayor David Trewavas said the confirmation of the game was a coup for the district, which is quickly building up a reputation of hosting big national sporting events.

"Everyone around here has a bit of football fever at the moment with the 2014 FIFA World Cup on," he said. "I know the district will get right behind this and get along to the game as it's sure to be an outstanding display of football."

Wellington Phoenix general manager David Dome said it was an important game for the team. "This game in Taupo plays a crucial role in one of our biggest pre-season schedules to date. On the back of having West Ham and Newcastle in New Zealand for the Football United Tour in July, the New Zealand A team will be another good challenge for the Phoenix."

A Wellington Phoenix game in Rotorua last year attracted 4000 people and the council's events manager Nick Reader said it was hoped the Taupo game would attract another big crowd. It will be the first time the Phoenix have played in the Taupo District.

Mr Reader said the Phoenix game followed on from a strong winter of sports events, with the Black Sticks women playing hockey against the Chinese team in April and the Football Ferns taking on the Brazilian team in June.

"We're really becoming the place for international and national sports games," he said. "Historically we have been known for our endurance sports but now we're really broadening our horizons."