25 May 2016

Council welcomes Sevens confirmation

Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown says she is pleased at today’s confirmation that the Rugby Sevens will stay in Wellington for another three years.

“The Capital City is the best city to host this colourful international fixture and the Westpac Stadium is a good venue.

“Keeping the Sevens in Wellington is a smart move.

“Changes in the way the event is run were well received by the supporters of Rugby and attendees and we will be working alongside NZ Rugby to make it even better.

“Next year - 2017 - will be an amazing year of rugby with the reinstated international Sevens and the British and Irish Lions all here in Wellington,” says Mayor Wade-Brown.

The City Council’s Economic Growth Committee Chair, Councillor Jo Coughlan, says the decision by New Zealand Rugby “shows Wellington has the infrastructure – and the enthusiasm - needed to host this international tournament that is so important to the local economy.

“Behind the Sevens is an array of businesses, organisations and people that help make this event run smoothly and make it a weekend that visitors never forget. This decision is a vote of confidence in our city’s infrastructure – like venues, transport, accommodation and our renowned restaurants, bars and nightlife.

“In its peak years the event brought an estimated $16 million into the region each summer. We’ll be taking steps to bring back the big crowds and the good times.”

Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency Chief Executive Chris Whelan also welcomed the announcement. “Wellington is an iconic event on the World Sevens Series calendar, and we are very pleased that it will remain so for at least the next three years. We look forward to supporting the city and the NZRU in ensuring next year’s tournament is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Wellington Sevens.”

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