Christchurch stadium unveiled

Monday 18 January 2010

New Zealand has taken another significant step in its preparations for RWC 2011, with the unveiling of the $60m redevelopment of Stadium Christchurch.

Media have been given a sneak preview of the redevelopment, and the public will have their chance on Saturday, January 23 at a free open day.

The Stadium will host two quarter-finals during RWC 2011 as well as five pool games. The Government has invested $15 million in the redevelopment.

The west stands have been replaced by the modern three-tiered Deans Stand, taking the seating capacity of the stadium to 38,628. That will be boosted to 45,000 with temporary seating during RWC 2011. The new roof means three-quarters of the seats are now covered, while the redevelopment has also seen the stadium turf re-laid and a new concourse built to link the entire stadium together.

The open day will run from 10am to 4pm and will feature a range of entertainment as well as tours of the new facilities.