New Zealand's Giant Rugby Ball will make its fourth and final
international appearance at Sydney's Circular Quay in
September.
Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key says the eye
catching 25-metre-long Giant Rugby Ball will be placed alongside
the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, with views of the
iconic Sydney Opera House, between 2 and 12 September.
"I am delighted the Giant Rugby Ball's final international
outing will be in Australia, New Zealand's largest international
tourism market and one that will be of huge importance for next
year's Rugby World Cup."
The inflatable Ball is a state-of-the-art venue which takes five
days to construct and can fit 220 people inside. It will cost
Tourism New Zealand NZD1.4 million to put up in Sydney.
During the day the Ball provides a multi-media experience
promoting New Zealand's tourism offerings and at night it will be
used to host trade and industry events showcasing the best of New
Zealand.
"With the start of Rugby World Cup 2011 only one year away, the
Giant Rugby Ball will showcase New Zealand's culture, landscapes
and heritage to Australians to raise awareness of what's in store
for rugby fans travelling here for the tournament," says John
Key.
The Giant Rugby Ball's presence in Sydney has been timed for the
beginning of the one year to go countdown to Rugby World Cup on 9
September and the Bledisloe Cup match to be played in the city on
11 September.
Read more about the Giant Rugby
Ball