Party atmosphere promised at Sevens tournament

Rotorua can expect a party atmosphere at the 2015 Bayleys National Sevens tournament, according to the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union's chief executive.

Mike Rogers said it would be the second time Rotorua had hosted the national event, which was held in Queenstown for 10 years before that.

A combination of Rotorua's central location with more awareness of the event should bring a larger crowd than last year, while the two-day tournament would have a something for everyone, he said.

"There are a lot of activities for kids; bouncy castles, stilt walkers, face painting, we really want to make it an event and an experience for everyone. It is a family-friendly event, as well as for people who want to come with their mates.

"We encourage people to dress up. There will definitely be a party atmosphere," he said.

The tournament will involve 16 provincial men's teams and 10 women's teams.

Mr Rogers said it would be a real community event with local flavour.

"There will be hundreds of local volunteers, ball boys, and we are sourcing a lot of the entertainment locally," he said.

He said the profile of sevens rugby was increasing.

"With sevens in the 2016 Olympics, there will be players competing in this tournament that will go on to be in the Olympics so it's a great opportunity to see them at this level," he said.

There would be special ticket deals for Rotorua residents, he said.

The Bayleys National Sevens take place at the Rotorua International Stadium on January 18 and 19.

Tickets are available now from the Rotorua Convention Centre and from Ticketmaster.