Rugby: Samoa granted half-day off for test

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw. Photo / Getty Images.

Samoa will come to a standstill on Wednesday afternoon for the historic test between Manu Samoa and the All Blacks, after the Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi announced it would be a "half-day" off.

Many had been hoping for a public holiday, but, just as it seemed their hopes had been dashed, Mr Tuilaepa came up with a compromise. The test at Apia Park will kick-off at 3pm (2pm NZT).

"We have to have a half day," Mr Tuilaepa told the Samoa Observer. "It's a day where everyone should prepare to support the boys."

Mr Tuilaepa told the newspaper the announcement wasn't official yet, but would be in the next few days.

A crowd of about 8000 people will be able to see the game live, with all those who haven't got tickets urged to watch it on a big screen in front of the government building which overlooks the harbour on Beach Road. Supporters are also urged to wear blue in support of Manu Samoa.

There are signs in support of the team - and also the All Blacks - on many of the shops here in Samoa's capital, and many flags are flying from cars. Some completely obscure their rear windows.

"It's very important that we play good host," Mr Tuilaepa added.

"There are a lot of media people coming too. Some will broadcast this to the United Kingdom and a kid from Samoa will probably see his house in Fasito'o or Faleatiu and feel that pride.

"He might even say to a blonde that he's with, 'that's my house', but really it's the pastor's house."

Mr Tuilaepa, who, like his New Zealand counterpart John Key is also Minister for Tourism, said the match was a godsend in terms of publicity for his nation.

He said the support so far had been excellent, but that it had to continue.

"It will make them feel proud," he said of the Manu Samoa players.

"All our speeches, prayers and support will prepare them to be brave and be prepared to boot the All Blacks."

In Tuana'i, a village west of Apia, a family has hung All Blacks flags around their home. Asked why, a family member said: "It's good to hang the All Black flags around to show them that we are very grateful to see them.

"I am waiting for my Samoan flags from New Zealand, and [they] should be here before Saturday... and I'm going to put them up as well."