Media release - November 18, 2005

RWC a huge boost to Jade and Christchurch

New Zealand staging the 2011 Rugby World Cup is a huge boost to Jade Stadium, Christchurch and the Crusaders region, Jade Stadium chairman Bruce Irvine said today.

The International Rugby Board (IRB) today announced New Zealand has won the right to host the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

The IRB Council confirmed New Zealand as the hosts, six years prior to the tournament. This timetable reflects the scale and nature of the preparatory work in preparing for the tournament, last held in NZ 18 years ago.

The NZRU's bid for the 2011 hosting rights was given the thumbs up at the IRB headquarters in Dublin yesterday after winning a secret ballot from South Africa and Japan.

Jade Stadium chairman Bruce Irvine said the IRB decision to give NZ the 20011 event was a huge boost to the region.

``The Rugby World Cup will be the biggest event in the city since the 1974 Commonwealth Games. It will rival the Lions visit here this year but for a longer period with more than the one game being played in the city. This is a massive bonus for NZ and Christchurch.

``Substantial discussions have already taken place with the RWC 2011 bid committee. Jade will be involved in the tournament in some description.

``Our board has considered concept plans for a new East Stand and now the 2011 RWC has been awarded to NZ we need to consider the possibility of future redevelopment.

``Any closer look would need to involve business case funding discussions with our shareholder, the Christchurch City Council.''

Mr Irvine said the issue of expanding Jade Stadium's seating capacity would be on the agenda on JSL's next board meeting and discussions would begin immediately with CCC.

ENDS

© Scoop Media