Demand for Rugby World Cup (RWC) corporate hospitality packages has reached record levels with sales for the 2011 Tournament in New Zealand totalling nearly NZD $25 million only a week since the launch.
"This is way beyond our expectations and more than double that sold in the first week of RWC 2007 in France where total sales eventually exceeded 100,000 packages," said David White, Director of Operations at Rugby Travel & Hospitality (NZ) Limited (RTH).
"New Zealanders love Rugby and to experience the demand that we have only further emphasizes New Zealand's passion for the Game and the desire to be part of the action for RWC 2011."
In addition to high demand for hospitality at Eden Park, which will host five pool matches, the semi-finals, Bronze Final and Final, there have also been strong sales in Christchurch for the quarter-final matches where New Zealand is expected to play, as well as Wellington for its quarter-final weekend. Most of the sales have been made to New Zealand and Australian companies.
"Our customers obviously see RWC 2011 as a fantastic way of hosting clients from New Zealand and around the world and our wide range of packages, designed to meet the varying needs of different customers provide them with a great way of enjoying all the action of the Tournament from the best seats in the house," said David White.
Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset, believes that the record sales are a reflection of the globally renowned RWC brand and the unique business networking environment it promotes.
"The official corporate hospitality programme is one of RWC commercial success stories and this record interest reflects the Tournament's stature as the world's largest sporting event. RWC 2011 corporate hospitality customers will have access to wonderful facilities, a unique sporting experience and a world class environment in which to entertain key clients and guests."
The record sales were welcomed by Martin Snedden, CEO for Tournament organiser, Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd (RNZ 2011). "We have said all along that RWC 2011 will be a great opportunity to showcase New Zealand to the world and the strong demand for corporate hospitality underlines our confidence that we are staging an event that will provide a unique experience for thousands of visitors and local fans."
Official hospitality packages are being sold by two organisations, Hospitality NZ 2011 and Ticketek/John Eales 5 or their appointed sub-agents.
Several unofficial operators have been discovered illegally offering RWC 2011 match tickets and hospitality. Tickets purchased from unofficial sources may be refused entry to a Rugby World Cup match venue. Fans should only purchase packages through the official agents to guarantee the best RWC 2011 experience.
For further information, please contact:
Hospitality NZ 2011 www.hospitalitynz2011.co.nz
Ticketek/John Eales 5 www.ticketek.com/rwcnz2011