Snowbound warmup for World Cup

The All Blacks kicked off their final World Cup rugby training camp in snow-covered surrounds today as teams began arriving in Australia prepared for sun and rock-hard grounds.

The town of Ashburton, 80km south of Christchurch, was eagerly awaiting a final glimpse of the All Blacks who were set to train at 11am despite a dumping of snow at the weekend.

The Wallabies were meanwhile basking in 30degC temperatures at their base in Coffs Harbour.

The Terrace Downs resort, near Methven, where the All Blacks will be based was covered in snow yesterday although the five-day camp wasn't under threat.

Terrace Downs marketing manager Jo Moore was confident yesterday the training field will be ready in time for the side after it was cleared by staff and the snow melted.

"They (the All Blacks) are certainly in for a treat when they get here. It's absolutely beautiful, white and lovely looking."

Mid-Canterbury Rugby Union chief executive Peter MacGregor said another training venue at the Ashburton Showgrounds was in good shape despite the recent weather.

The All Blacks canned a recent training camp in Gisborne due to waterlogged grounds, but a team spokesman said today's one-hour session was "all go".

There was heightened interest with the inclusion of locks Norm Maxwell (Canterbury) and Simon Maling (Otago) for the camp after both missed out on the original 30-man squad.

With Ali Williams in doubt with a foot fracture, Maxwell appeared to have the inside running to replace him although there was no confirmation of that from team management.

Maxwell menaced the Wellington lineout for Canterbury on Saturday as the Ranfurly Shield challengers squandered nine of their own throws.

Canterbury coach Aussie McLean said his senior lock had been "magnificent all season".

Maling has missed Otago's past five NPC matches because of knee ligament damage but was expected to return this weekend.

Meanwhile in Australia, Argentina began the influx of visiting sides in Sydney yesterday and were set to be joined by Wales and Scotland today.

The All Blacks assemble in Auckland next week and fly out on Wednesday, ahead of their tournament opener against Italy on October 11.

- NZPA

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