RWC Opening Ceremony

The official opening night of the Rugby World Cup is quickly approaching and Friday 9 September is going to be the biggest party Auckland has ever seen. The Heart of the Cityoffice is planning on staying in the CBD and enjoying the celebrations and we are encouraging you to do the same.

But remember, regardless of whether you will stay in the CBD or leave it is extremely important to start planning now, as there will be huge pressure on Auckland’s transport systems during this time — both on the roads and on public transport.

• The CBD will be very busy. Approx. 50,000 people are expected down at the waterfront between Queens Wharf and the Auckland Viaduct.
• Festivities kick-off at 4pm.
• Meanwhile 60,000 people will be heading to Eden Park for the official Opening Ceremony and opening match.

Quay Street/Princes Wharf/Britomart Area businesses - specific information on how to access your business on the day is available here...

Transport – What you need to know

• The roads and public transport will be very busy, so stay in town and be part of the fun or get out of the CBD by 3.30pm. Trying to get home from the CBD at peak time will be very difficult.
• A large part of Quay Street and feeder streets in Auckland’s CBD will be closed off from 10pm on Thursday 8 September, through to 4am on Saturday 10 September. Arrange deliveries and essential trips for early in the day. Managed access for businesses, with deliveries through designated routes, is until midday Friday 9 September.
• If you use buses to or from Auckland’s CBD, you need to be aware that the position of some bus stops will be moved away from the Britomart area on Opening Night

Tips for employers

• Get involved in the Opening Night atmosphere by putting on a staff event, letting them finish early to head to the event or home before 3.30pm
• Consider letting your staff work from home or use flexi-time
• Promote carpooling to staff to help reduce traffic
• Remind staff to book meetings with clients in the morning before the CBD gets busy, on a different day or at another site
• Check if parking or access to your building will change for 9 September.