Huge influx expected for Rotorua Lions match

Lions supporters join in with the Welsh choir before kick-off in the first test at Jade Stadium in Christchurch, June 25, 2005.

More than 20,000 people - nearly a third of Rotorua's population- will descend on Rotorua the weekend of the Maori All Blacks versus Lions match.

Several events will run before and after the June 17 match, with a free family-friendly fanzone to be set up at the Energy Events Centre with big screens to watch the game.

Rotorua Lakes Council and police say they are prepared for the influx of 21,000 British and Irish rugby supporters.

Bay of Plenty operations support manager Inspector Kevin Taylor said the normal amount of staff would be on "to look after the residents of Rotorua" with extra staff focused on policing the game and related events.

"We're not expecting any big dramas. To visitors, welcome to New Zealand and Rotorua. We are working really hard to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay."

Mr Taylor said locals should embrace the event.

"It's a big game of national significance. The Rotorua Lakes Council have put a lot of time and energy into working closely with everyone to ensure it goes off without a hitch."

He asked for drivers to exercise patience during the tour, which starts June 3, with a lot of campervans expected on the roads.

Council major events manager Martin Croft said he was expecting more visitors to Rotorua than during the last Lions tour.

"When the Lions were in New Zealand in 2005 Rotorua hosted the opening match. The Maori All Blacks vs Lions match next month is a week before the first test so we expect more visitors to be in town this time because the tests are the focus for those following the tour.

"It will be a great opportunity to showcase our city and show the spirit of manaakitanga [hospitality] Rotorua is famous for."

Mr Croft said because Rotorua hosted a lot of events, the city was "well equipped" to cater for influxes of visitors.

"We already have good relationships with service providers and emergency services and have been talking to them to ensure everyone's prepared.

"Parking, transport, accommodation and food services will all be stretched but measures will be put in place to lessen the impact on day-to-day services.

"A free bus for ticket holders will be available to transport fans from the inner city to the stadium and plenty of parking will be available on the day."

Sheryll O'Dwyer, secretary of the Rotorua Association of Motels, said it appeared several rooms were still available before and after the match - except for the Saturday night when it looked as if most motels were full.

"We have a very good duty motel system in place which seems to work well in helping to find any available rooms, if any, for those visitors that have arrived in town without a reservation during these busy times."

Jason Wright, Eat Streat Collective chairman, said he was excited about the number of people coming to the city.

"I think Rotorua, and the North Island, will be busy for the entire Lions tour."

Mr Wright said he knew of one English wholesaler who was bringing 4500 people to New Zealand.

"It comes at a great time of year. [Businesses] will be extending their hours over this time. We're excited."

Mr Wright said it was great the council was organising events such as the Rotorua Big Brekkie the morning after the match because there would be a positive spin-off for local businesses.