The weather might be getting chillier, but things are set to heat up in Dunedin this July, with the return of international rugby.
Dunedin is preparing to celebrate this winter, following the confirmation of the All Blacks v Ireland Steinlager Series Test match at the Forsyth Barr Stadium at 7.05pm on Saturday, July 9.
As the only city in the South Island to host a match as part of the 2022 Steinlager Series, it’s expected the 28,000-capacity game will sell out, as fans eagerly await the first Dunedin meeting of the two sides in 20 years.
Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins says he’s looking forward to a whole weekend of family-friendly events, as the match coincides with the iconic Dunedin Midwinter Carnival.
“The city will be absolutely alive with festivities to herald the return of large-scale events in earnest.
“We've seen some epic encounters between these two sides in recent years, and we expect nothing less under the roof.
“We're looking forward to welcoming our Irish friends to the city, and I know the locals will show them our own definition of ‘having the craic’."
For Dunedin accommodation, hospitality, tourism and retail businesses, the game will provide a very welcome boost to bottom lines, following a tough few years. Previously, All Blacks Test matches have contributed millions to the local economy, such as the 2017 Bledisloe Cup which brought in an estimated $9.3 million.
“The hospitality industry across the city is very excited about the announcement of the upcoming All Blacks v Ireland game,” says committee member for the Hospitality New Zealand Otago Branch and co-owner of The Craic Claire Grenfell.
“It’s been a tough time for the hospitality and tourism sector, particularly over the last nine months, so it’s great to have a big event weekend to look forward to.
“We’re looking forward to hosting the influx of visitors and pouring plenty of Guinness of course.”
The Dunedin i-SITE have received a steady stream of accommodation inquiries in relation to the match dates and urged people looking for vacancies to get in touch for assistance as they keep a running list of availability throughout the city.
DVML’s CEO Terry Davies says, “We are absolutely thrilled that the All Blacks will be taking on Ireland under the roof.
“We are delighted to have major events back and with it being the only South Island match we encourage fans to get in quick to purchase tickets.”
Entertainment and activities will centre on the Octagon and surrounding areas so that visitors can enjoy the celebratory atmosphere over the course of two days, Friday, July 8 to Saturday, July 9.
