13 May 2010

Rugby World Cup transport plan unveiled

8:53 pm on 13 May 2010

Major roads will be closed and suburbs locked down in Auckland as Rugby World Cup organisers push fans out of their cars and on to public transport during next year's tournament.

Organisers have unveiled a plan which promotes the use of trains, buses, taxis and coaches to get to Eden Park, the tournament's major venue.

Parking will be restricted in 45 streets around the stadium and some major roads near Eden Park closed.

Organisers say they expect 75% of fans to travel by public transport or taxi to the biggest games, or to walk.

The Kingsland Business Assocation is concerned road closures around Eden Park during the tournament will not allow for a series of street parties it was planning.

The association says it is in talks with the Auckland City Council and tournament organisers about holding street festivals during four games.

It believed the main thoroughfare through Kingsland would be closed, but the association says a taxi rank has popped up on the street on new plans released on Thursday.

The Auckland transport director for Rugby World Cup 2011 confirms a taxi rank has been pencilled-in for the street, but says it will not block any bars.

Rugby World Cup 2011 chief executive Martin Snedden told Nine to Noon the plan would mean Auckland can cope with transporting up to to twice as many fans as for a Bledisloe Cup match.