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Chelsea F.C. Women will play in Auckland later this year as part of the International Football Festival, with the event backed by the Government’s Major Events and Tourism Package.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says Chelsea F.C. Women will face an Auckland FC Women’s Invitational XI at Eden Park on August 8.
The English club joins Tottenham Hotspur F.C. as part of the festival programme.
Boost for winter tourism
Upston says the event is expected to deliver economic benefits for Auckland during the quieter winter period.
“It is fantastic to welcome another world-class team to New Zealand, giving football fans the chance to see Chelsea in action thanks to the Government’s investment into attracting events of this calibre.
“The festival will provide a winter economic boost to Auckland by bringing buzz to hospitality and tourism businesses, creating more jobs and strengthening our economy.”
The Government says the event is being supported through its $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package.
First for New Zealand
The match will mark the first time a Women’s Super League club has played in New Zealand.
Upston says the event builds on momentum generated by the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
“It’s exciting to welcome Chelsea F.C. Women to Eden Park as women’s football in New Zealand continues to grow.”
Major events strategy
The Government says the match forms part of a broader strategy to attract international events that generate tourism and international exposure for New Zealand.
Other events supported through the package include Linkin Park concerts in Auckland, the Ultra Music Festival in Wellington, Robbie Williams concerts in Auckland and Christchurch, the FIFA World Series in Auckland and the World Surf League Championship Tour in Raglan.
