Fans from around the world have applied for more than 600,000
tickets during the first of three major ticketing sales phases for
Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011).
"This is a great start and is clear evidence that both New
Zealand and overseas fans will strongly support this Tournament,"
said Martin Snedden, CEO for Tournament Organiser Rugby New Zealand
2011 (RNZ 2011).
Applications for Venue and Team Pool Packs, which closed on May
21, totalled 125,000. In addition, 40,000 applications were
received for the Quarter-final Weekend Packs in Wellington and
Christchurch and the Bronze Final.
"Fans are realising how special this Tournament will be in New
Zealand and this bodes well for future ticketing phases and for the
event itself."
Overseas demand has been strong with the most popular Team Pool
Packs (aside from New Zealand), being England, Ireland, France,
South Africa and Australia.
"There has also been strong demand for Quarter-final Weekends
Packs in both Wellington and Christchurch. Demand for tickets at
venues aside from Eden Park, has been solid and in line with
expectations.
"There has been oversubscription for the Eden Park Venue Packs
and also the New Zealand Team Pack. As well, there has been some
specific seating category oversubscription within some other Venue
and Team Packs."
RNZ 2011 is currently processing applications.
In cases where demand exceeds availability, a randomisation
process will determine success.
Successful applicants will have credit card payments deducted
over the next month. All applicants successful or otherwise will,
by early July, have received written advice as to the outcome of
their respective applications.
"It will not be possible to satisfy demand from all fans who
applied in Phase 1," said Martin Snedden.
"Unfortunately some people will be unsuccessful and, no doubt,
will be disappointed. Where possible we will be going back to
unsuccessful applicants with second chance pack offers."
The second phase of RWC 2011 ticketing, involving the sale of
individual match tickets (excluding semi-finals and the Final) will
most likely begin in September. Details of this phase will to be
confirmed in July. The third phase - a ballot for tickets to the
semi-finals and the Final - will take place in early 2011.
www.rugbyworldcup.com
For more
information on Tourism New Zealand's involvement in the RWC
2011