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Rugby Union

Eden Park to host 2011 RWC final

24/07/2007

Auckland's Eden Park has been confirmed as the venue for the final of the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

Tournament organisers and the Eden Park Trust Board made the announcement today following the successful application for funding from the government to help modernise the venue.

Currently the stadium, which hosts domestic and international rugby and cricket matches, consists of only 10,000 seats.

However a redevelopment project, which will be co-funded by the New Zealand government and the Trust Board, will increase the capacity to 22,000 permanent seats and with temporary stands set to be erected by 2011 the total seating will be as much as 60,000.

"On behalf of the Eden Park Trust Board, I would like to thank the government for its commitment to underwriting the redevelopment," said trustee Rob Fisher.

"I would also like to thank the minister and the ministry of economic development officials for their constructive approach to finalising the heads of agreement, which ensures that the redevelopment will exceed the International Rugby Board's requirements for RWC 2011, and leaves open the ability to further enhance Eden Park in the future."

The main part of the project will see the existing south and south-west stands replaced by a single covered seating area, which will also feature improved facilities for supporters, players and the media.

And temporary seating will be installed on the east and west stands, which will also feature provision for further expansion after 2011.

While the work is being carried out, Auckland cricket club will still be allowed to use the ground for their matches, although at a reduced capacity.

This will be rendered impossible during the 2010/11 season however, as work will be carried out in preparation for the rugby World Cup to be held in September, October and November 2011 in New Zealand.

It is expected to be the largest sporting event held in the country since the 1987 Rugby World Cup.

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