15 Jun 2010

2011 Rugby World Cup touted as opportunity for Pacific

3:31 pm on 15 June 2010

The chief executive of New Zealand's Minister of Pacific Island Affairs, Dr Colin Tukuitonga, says next year's rugby World Cup presents a unique opportunity for Pacific Island nations to showcase the region.

He says it's a once in a lifetime chance for Pacific nations to capture the attention of the world to to make the most of the business opportunities and the chance to promote Pacific culture.

Rugby New Zealand 2011 chief executive Martin Snedden is outlining the potential opportunities in and around the tournament to Pacific High Commissioners, Consuls and Trade Commissioners in Wellington today.

Dr Tukuitonga says it's important for the Pacific diplomats to hear about the plans for the World Cup and how Pacific communities in New Zealand and across the Pacific can make the most of the opportunity it presents.