Big southern welcome wanted

Ben Smith makes a break for it against Wales at the first test in Auckland. Photo: Getty Images
Ben Smith makes a break for it against Wales at the first test in Auckland. Photo: Getty Images

Dunedin's mayor is calling on residents to roll out the welcome mat for the All Blacks and Wales when they arrive for their test match next week.

The All Blacks are set to arrive at Dunedin International Airport this Sunday at 3.45pm, with the Welsh landing on Thursday, June 23, at 4pm.

The Dunedin City Council is encouraging fans to dress up and head out to the airport to lay on the southern charm.

The King's and Queen's High Schools' Kapa Haka group, He Waka Kōtuia, will welcome the rugby sides and then pipers will pipe them through the terminal.

When the Welsh arrive, the Dunedin RSA Choir will perform the hymn Gwahoddiad.

Mayor Dave Cull said today that residents should take the opportunity to cheer the teams' entrance into the city.

"Our city is well known for its enthusiastic welcomes and I know there will be tremendous and wonderfully culturally appropriate support for both teams when they arrive in Dunedin.

"We're looking forward to hosting many keen rugby followers, from around the region and further afield, for this very exciting match.''

The council said businesses wanting to celebrate the test match could buy bunting from the Otago Chamber of Commerce for $15 a pack.

The All Blacks next face Wales in Wellington on Saturday. 

The sold-out third test will be played at Dunedin's Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday, June 25.

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement