All Black centre Isaia Toeava leaves a trail of fallen French defenders in his wake as he heads for the line to score during the second rugby test match against France. New Zealand won 61-10. Photo / Mark Mitchell
All Black centre Isaia Toeava leaves a trail of fallen French defenders in his wake as he heads for the line to score during the second rugby test match against France. New Zealand won 61-10. Photo / Mark Mitchell
With excitement at the rugby World Cup heating up, fans are being urged to get along to the Viaduct for the big- screen showings of the sudden-death matches.
Free entry to screenings of selected matches at the rugby World Cup kick off on Sunday morning at the MarineEvents Centre at the Viaduct Harbour, when the All Blacks play France in their do-or-die quarterfinal held in Cardiff.
The events centre, which can comfortably cater for at least 3000 rugby fans with its two 6.5m x 5m television screens, was the scene of late-night public viewings this year when Emirates Team New Zealand unsuccessfully challenged for the America's Cup in Spain.
Auckland City Council's group manager for city events, Rachael Dacy, said the live site had proved itself both overseas and here as a great way to generate excitement about events and the city.
"It also generates pride in Auckland and pride in New Zealand sportspeople.
"You can see these events free of charge at home in your lounge but to come out and celebrate with fellow Aucklanders and celebrate success really activates the city."
Regardless of whether the All Blacks go on to World Cup glory, all the matches from the semifinal stage onwards will be screened.
Ms Dacy said the live site's success would be monitored closely with the possibility of other sites being used in 2011 as the international rugby focus would shift to New Zealand, "and particularly to Auckland", at the conclusion of the World Cup in France.
The live site would also be used for the netball world championships to be held in Auckland in November.
Where to watch:
THE MARINE EVENTS CENTRE
Halsey St
All Blacks quarter-final v France. Sunday, October 7.
Kick off 8am.
Doors open 7am.
Semi-final one Sunday, October 14.
Kick off 8am
Semi-final two Monday, October 15.
Kick off 8am.
Third-place play-off Saturday, October 20.
Kick off 8am.
