A shortage of accomodation has prompted more than 1000 people to offer to "adopt" a Lions fan.
British and Irish Lions fans after their team was defeated by the New Zealand All Blacks in the first Test match in Christchurch in the Lions tour 2005. Photo: AFP
More than 20,000 international visitors are expected next month for the British and Irish Lions tour.
The rugby team will play 10 games across the country, finishing with two games against the All Blacks - one in Wellington and one in Auckland - at the beginning of July.
After concerns some fans who did not book accomodation immediately after the tour was announced would not be able to find or afford a place to stay, Adam Gilshnan set up a Facebook page to connect them with New Zealanders willing to billet them for free.
He said the response had been fantastic.
"You know the Kiwis are offering all sorts - getting picked up from the airport or train station or driven to the grounds.
"Some people are saying we've got kegerators [beer coolers] with two handles - so there's lots of beer. Some are saying for the Scottish fans 'we've got lots of whisky so come and join us, we'll have a barbecue'.
"You know, the generosity from the New Zealanders is just outstanding, I'm really stoked that Kiwis have taken it on board and are getting in behind it."
Mr Gilshnan said it would also be a chance for people to make new international friendships.
