Whangarei is celebrating the presence of two of the world's best young soccer teams as they train for their first game on Saturday.
The city is hosting FIFA under-20 World Cup teams from the USA and Myanmar.
The Myanmar team performs its greatest hit- in response to waiata of welcome. Photo: Diane Stoppard
Players and coaches were welcomed this week with pōwhiri, taonga and a feast at Whangarei's Te-renga Pa-raoa marae.
Mayor, Sheryl Mai, said it was a privilege to have them in the city.
"It's huge for us, we've been building up the infrastructure to be able to host international games by bringing the third-largest event in the world - FIFA under- 20 World Cup - to our shores, this is just incredible.
"For Whangarei to share in that with four games, we're just thrilled."
Sheryl Mai greets a member of the USA entourage. Photo: Diane Stoppard
