Rugby World Cup 2011 was the flavour of the day yesterday as New Zealand celebrated 'Two Years to Go' until the opening match between New Zealand and Tonga on September 9, 2011.

All over the country, New Zealanders took part in a number of events marking the milestone and kicking off the countdown to the start of the Tournament.

Official proceedings took place at Waikato Stadium where New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, International Rugby Board (IRB) Chairman Bernard Lapasset and Chief Executive Mike Miller joined Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd (RNZ 2011) Chairman Jock Hobbs and Chief Executive Martin Snedden for the festivities.



Mr Snedden said "The reception we received across the country yesterday was very encouraging. From the formal Government proceedings to the creative events hosted at the regional level, it is clear that New Zealand is ready and willing to embrace this Tournament,"

"We appreciate the support that has come from all levels of New Zealand and we are looking forward to the next two years as we work our way to creating what promises to be a very special event that all Kiwis will be able to enjoy." He added.

Mr Snedden's sentiments were shared by the IRB representatives who were encouraged by the widespread cooperation that has already been established between the many key New Zealand stakeholders involved in the Tournament.

Said Mr. Lapasset, "New Zealand is putting forward a very united front. We have been impressed by the support that the event has received so far and I am sure that this will continue to grow as we get closer to 2011".

Public attention on the day primarily focused on match venues redevelopments, the volunteer programme and the highly anticipated ticket sales.