Host Cities

Whangarei

The city of Whangarei is 160-kilometres north of Auckland, roughly a two-hour scenic drive. The North is steeped in history. Northland is regarded as the first region in New Zealand, and where legendary explorer Kupe made his first landfall. It is believed by many Maori’s that Northland is the birthplace of New Zealand.

With the Northland coastline extending over 200kms, no matter where you are you’re never more then 40kms from the coast. Making Whangarei the perfect location for swimming, fishing, sailing and exploring New Zealand history.

Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city. The home of Eden Park, the birthplace of Rugby World Cup 2011. It was here in June 1987 that the All Blacks defeated France 29 – 9 in the very first Rugby World Cup Final. 

Auckland is stretched along a stunning waterfront from the Tasman Sea to the white sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean. Just off shore lie two of New Zealand’s top getaway destinations, Waiheke and Rangitoto Islands, accessible by a short ferry ride from the city.

With a population of 1.4 million people and over 100 ethnicities, Auckland is the largest and fastest growing region in New Zealand. With a blend of European, South Pacific and Asian cultures there remains a strong indigenous Maori heritage, offering visitors to experience a rich cultural and gastronomic experience.

The best place to enjoy stunning views of the city is the 328 metres Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. For the adrenalin-seeking bungee jump for a 192 metre thrill!

Hamilton

The heart of farming country. Situated on the banks of the Waikato River in the central North Island, less then a two-hour drive south of Auckland.

The Hamilton area has a history of 700-800 years of Maori occupation and settlement, with Pa sites and traditional gardens throughout the region. A number of the region’s scenic and cultural highlights are within a one – hour drive from the city. Raglan is one of the worlds best surf beaches, Waitomo glow worm caves, Lord of the Rings inspired Hobbiton in Matamata or relax in hot mineral spas at Te Aroha.

Hamilton is also home to Waikato Stadium, a world-class facility that has been regularly rated Test Venue of the Year by New Zealand Rugby Union. This stadium has hosted an International Rugby event every year since it opened in 2002.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a major-inland city on the southern shores of the lake of the same name, in the Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand’s North Island.

Rotorua is where you’ll see nature at its most powerful. There are four main thermal areas in the region. Bubbling mud, steaming geysers and rumbling earth make up Rotorua’s unique landscape. The city also has a distinctive scent due to its geothermal activity.

Visitors will love a relaxing soak in the healing waters of a hot spring, a therapeutic spa, massage or mud wrap. For the more adventurous traveller river – rafting, mountain biking, four – wheel driving and jet boating. This area is a popular holiday destination for New Zealanders, with 16 lakes; activities such as fishing, swimming and water skiing are immensely popular on the golden sand beaches.

New Plymouth

Situated on the west coast of the North Island, half way between Auckland and Wellington, approximately a four and a half hour drive either way.

The region is a deemed a surfing mecca by surfers all over the world. While Mount Taranaki, featured in the film the Last Samurai as a double for Mount Fuji, is loved by skiers. This is one of the only destinations in the world where you can swim, ski and surf in the same day.

Napier

Napier, the Art Deco City, sits on the edge of the Pacific Ocean on New Zealand's east coast. It is situated in the centre of Hawke's Bay just 18 kilometers from its sister city Hastings. It has a population of nearly 60,000 and is situated 332-kilometres (by road) north east of the capital Wellington. 



In 1931 an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale hit the region lasting two and a half minutes and killing 261 people. During the rebuilding phase, out went the staid Victorian look and in came a modern new art deco style. The newest styles were incorporated in the building designs, from Stripped Classical to Spanish Mission. But it was the Art Deco look that prevailed. Napier has since become famous as a little piece of European design down under.

Palmerston North

Palmerston North, or “Palmy” as the locals call it, is located between Taupo in the North Island and the capital Wellington. The city is a two – three hour drive from Wellington, New Plymouth, Napier and Taupo.  Rugby heritage from every playing nation is showcased in the city of Palmerston North. One of the highlights of the region for Rugby fans is the New Zealand Rugby Museum - where you can experience Rugby culture, connect with the heroes, and be challenged by interactive exhibit, view Rugby memorabilia and records, including some of the world's rarest Rugby artifacts.

Arena Manawatu, hosted the first ever Super 14 Rugby Match in 1996, and is situated within a 7-minute walk from the city centre.

Wellington

Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand. Situated on a scenic harbour at the Southern tip of the North Island. 

The Wellington region is home to 473,700 people, or 11 percent of New Zealand's population. Wellington is best explored on foot for those who like its waterfront, cafes and boutiques, or the trails that stretch across the city's hills. 

Culture and nightlife make Wellington the undisputed party capital of New Zealand. Restaurants, bars and cafes and packed out theatres and cultural venues combine to create an unrivalled energy and vibe. Wellington has a track record of hosting outstanding major events ranging from the International Festival of Arts and International Rugby Sevens through to World Film Premieres, such as the Lord of the Rings and King Kong.

Wellington Regional Stadium, also known as “the Cake Tin”, was used by Peter Jackson to record a chanting cricket crowd for one of his battle scenes in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. So rugby fans have much to look forward to atmosphere wise during the World Cup.

Nelson

Nelson is part of the Nelson Tasman region, situated at the top end of the South Island. Nelson is the sunshine capital of New Zealand, with warm, sunny weather year round. The region’s comfortable climate as well as beaches, forest, rivers and mountains engrosses visitors. Recognised for its relaxed lifestyle, Nelson Tasman boasts hundreds of kilometers of beautiful golden beaches and national parks. Farewell Spit, 40 kilometers long, at the tip of the South Island, is New Zealand's longest sand spit and is an internationally renowned bird sanctuary.

Trafalgar Park was where the first ever Rugby match was played in New Zealand in 1870. The stadium is located close to Nelson’s city centre allowing visitors plenty of opportunity to enjoy the city before and after the games.

Dunedin

Dunedin is located on the southeast coast of the South Island of New Zealand, nestled in the hills surrounding Otago Harbour.

The city is rich in heritage and culture and is regarded as New Zealand's architectural heritage capital. The University of Otago is a national icon with many New Zealanders travelling over the country to attend study there. The Classic Victorian architecture reflects the Scottish heritage dating back to the settlers in 1848. Dunedin is Gaelic (Scottish) for Edinburgh.

The Otago Peninsula is home to the world's rarest penguin, the yellow-eyed, and various species of seals, sea lions and pelagic birds.

Carisbrook Stadium is known by many as “The House of Pain”, and has been hosting international Rugby for 100 years.

Invercargill

Invercargill sits at the foot of the South Island and is a flourishing farming community. The city's cultural links with Scotland are reflected by many of the main streets, which are named after Scottish rivers.

Bluff is important to Invercargill because it houses the city's port and fishing industry. It is also the gateway to New Zealand's third island, Stewart Island, 85 percent is part of Rakiura National Park and home to the kiwi and other native birds. The iconic Bluff signpost is just outside town at Stirling Point, a view that tourists should not miss.