As workplaces empty in Auckland, Indian and Australian fans are settling in for an evening of cricket.
The Cricket World Cup semifinal, between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, began at 4.30pm. The outcome of the match will decide which team the Black Caps face in the final on Sunday in Melbourne.
At the Right Track Sports Cafe in Auckland's CBD, India supporter Amarinder Singh has secured a perfect viewing sport for the match.
Mr Singh, who is from India, had travelled to New Zealand and Australia to support his team.
"I've been all over and to Adelaide and Melbourne."
He hoped his team would pull through today's match, despite Australia's advantage of being able to bat first after winning the toss.
"In my experience, the SCG is not good for batting second."
He had been unable to get to Sydney for today's game, but was still cheering from across the ditch.
"I was going to go to the Fan Zone but it's raining. I like to watch [cricket] on the big screen where you can see everything."
The final should be between India and New Zealand as both teams are undefeated, Mr Singh said.
Another cricket fan in the bar had popped in to soak up the atmosphere.
While the Auckland woman, who declined to be identified, did not have a favourite for today's match, she was still excited to watch the teams face off.
"I've loved the [Cricket] World Cup - loved watching all the games," she said.