Shhh ... listen. Can you hear it? It's there, barely perceptible but there nonetheless. A kind of low humming sound.
Over the next few days it will grow to the point where it is quite distinguishable as a persistent buzz building to a deafening roar.
The cause of all thisexcitement, in case you hadn't already guessed, is the impending Rugby World Cup, said by many to be the largest sporting event ever held in New Zealand. Those same people also are adamant it will be the last time we get to host rugby's premier tournament.
As a country, we must be sure to make the most of the opportunity and from the outset Martin Snedden has been smart enough to enlist the whole country into the festival philosophy.
We have all heard the projections - more than 85,000 visitors during the tournament. And, while Auckland's Eden Park has been upgraded, along with many other stadiums around the country, and cities are developing special party zones, the big question locally will be: what does Wanganui stand to gain? Hosting the United States team for six days before kick-off is a magnificent opportunity to market ourselves.
The arrival in town of the Rugby World Cup Roadshow later this week is just the beginning. We will not be able to escape the sense that something special is happening in our city. As outlined in Saturday's paper, there are security provisions for our guests, a uniquely Wanganui welcome involving a waka journey on the river, bunting and a host of activities as part of the Real Whanganui Festival.
This is about much more than rugby and the Real Whanganui Festival is a great example. With more than 60 events, including the Wanganui Festival of Glass, the Literary Festival, the River Traders' Market, performances, exhibitions and more, it is a showcase of everything that is great about this area.
The Rugby World Cup represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to market ourselves to a global audience. United, we have a far better chance of maximising our opportunity, one that will last long after the final whistle on October 23.
