Global rugby boss visits Auckland's Cloud

An advance tour of the Cloud on Auckland’s Queens Wharf hosted by RWC Minister Murray McCully held early this afternoon has left a lasting impression on those who were invited to attend.

Mr McCully told reporters Michael Barnett, who is the chief executive of the Auckland Regional Chamber of Commerce, will leading the eventful showcasing programme at the Cloud during the Rugby World Cup this year.

"We have a unique opportunity during the Rugby World Cup to demonstrate the very best of who we are and what we do to an international audience. It is imperative that we offer an outstanding experience and I am confident that Mr Barnett and the team will deliver just that".

IRB chief executive Mike Miller and Rugby NZ 2011 chief executive Martin Snedden were there to answer questions revealing their opinions on the final stages of development of the Cloud.

Although Mr Miller had known about the development of Queens Wharf since its proposal this was Mr Miller’s first time visiting the Cloud, ten days before the Cloud’s official opening to the public.

“I saw the plan and I saw the ongoing construction, but this is the first time I have stepped foot in the final stages of the Cloud’s development,”

“If you want to experience an amazing tournament then please get your tickets while they are still available. You may get in on the day but then again you may not.”

Mr Snedden expressed his delight with the ongoing development of the Cloud and the Rugby World Cup ticket sales saying that the nervousness has slowly been trailing towards immense excitement.

“From a ticketing point of view things are going very well. A week ago ticket sales had collected up to $238 million with ticket sales now totaling around $243 million,”

“I think that’s an indication of the level of interest and excitement both in New Zealand and internationally. Bring it on, we’re ready.”

The Cloud situated on Queen’s Wharf will be open to the public next week on Friday the 9th of September.

Further information regarding the Queens Wharf fan-base, showcase and festival will be announced over the coming weeks.