The Silver Ferns will defend their crown in Auckland, which edged out Christchurch to host the championships. Photo / Getty Images
Auckland is the venue for this year's netball world championship in November.
International Federation of Netball Associations president Molly Rhone today announced The Trusts Stadium in Waitakere would host the four-yearly tournament from November 10-17.
Christchurch and Auckland had been competing for the right to stage the event,
with Netball New Zealand chairman Don Mackinnon saying both cities provided compelling cases.
"We're grateful to the venues who worked with their city councils and netball communities in preparing these offers, and congratulate Auckland on their successful proposal," Mackinnon said.
Mackinnon said while Netball New Zealand was already working through planning for the championship, a separate organisation would be formed to prepare for the event.
"Running a world class event in a compressed timeframe will be a challenge but with the support of the Auckland community, we know that New Zealand will be able to host an excellent world netball championships," he said.
New Zealand took over the staging of this year's event after Fiji was stripped of the hosting rights last month in the wake of the military coup there.
This year's tournament was initially scheduled for July but the timing had been delayed for four months to give tournament organisers in New Zealand more preparation time.
New Zealand last staged the tournament in 1999, when it was held in Christchurch.
Christchurch Mayor Garry Moore said it was disappointing the city has lost its bid but urged every netball fan in the country to get behind Auckland's event.
"I want to congratulate Auckland and wish them all the very best in what will be a very exciting time in the City of Sails," Moore said in a statement.
"The international event was dropped into New Zealand's lap at the last minute and came down to two bids. I am very proud to have been part of the Christchurch contingent that put together a stunning bid in what was a tight timeframe."
Auckland City Mayor Dick Hubbard was rapt the decision went Auckland's way.
"The Auckland region is home to 25,630 registered netball players, representing 20 per cent of New Zealand's total.
"Auckland City recognises the hugely important role netball plays in our community and is excited about showing our passion for the game to the world.
Mr Hubbard also said hosting the event will be a good warm up for Auckland in preparation for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
- NZPA, NZ HERALD STAFF
