Yellow Fever Spreads through Wellington

Yellow Fever Spreads through Wellington

A few months back Wellington went all white, now it’s time to go for A League gold.

The city’s leaders are calling on locals and New Zealanders alike to turn out in force - and in black and yellow - for the Phoenix when they take on the Newcastle Jets on Sunday March 7 in a united "Yell-Out for a Sell-Out".

Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast says: “People have been knocked out by the way Wellingtonians have got behind the Phoenix – but we know this is a city that loves to celebrate and support its sports teams.

“First the All Whites and now the Phoenix players have acknowledged the boost the Wellington crowd gives them. Let’s see if we can carry our team toward the Grand Final on a wave of yellow.”

Wellington has a reputation to uphold and a job to do, Positively Wellington Tourism Chief Executive David Perks says.

“Our crowds effectively put an extra man on the pitch. We want a sell out and we want noise.”

While Phoenix and Yellow Fever merchandise is likely to be in hot demand in the lead up to the match, Mr Perks also expects a few punters to turn up in typical Wellington style.

“Judging by the NZI Sevens earlier this month there’s a few big bird and banana costumes around the place that I’m sure would be keen for another outing.”

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said the electric atmosphere at Westpac Stadium would make the Phoenix-Jets showdown a must-see event.

“Anyone who has come to a Phoenix game knows exactly how exciting it is. Experiencing the noise generated by more than 24,000 for the previous match against Perth Glory was staggering – so just imagine what it’ll be like with a capacity crowd dressed in yellow cheering the Phoenix on against Newcastle.

“This will be a huge occasion for the Phoenix, the fans, football and the city of Wellington. No one is going to want to miss out on being at Westpac Stadium on March 7 for one of the sporting spectacles of the year.”

A football-friendly line-up of 11 of the city’s hotels have teamed up for the first time to offer special match night rates through WellingtonNZ.com, starting from $99. Added bonuses on offer from some include late checkouts and a free drink for those wearing Phoenix colours on check in.

Restaurateurs are also being urged to offer special post-match deals for ticket holders, Mr Perks says.

“We’re thinking a hot yellow curry would make a good special of the day.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media