A nine-a-side rugby league tournament which it is hoped will inject millions of dollars into the Auckland economy is to be hosted by the city's council.
The NRL competition will feature the stars from all 16 clubs playing 18 minute matches at Auckland's Eden Park.
Teams will play in four pools and the top two will progress to the final rounds.
Some $2.5 million in prize money is up for grabs.
The event is being backed by promotions company Ducco and will also get funding from Auckland Council's tourism arm.
The council's tourism and events organisation will put $9 million into the event, which it describes as an economic anchor for the region.
Promoters say the competition will boost visitor numbers to the city by more than 32,000 in its first year, contributing $3.8 million to the economy.
They predict that figure will rise to $6.8 million in five years.
Mayor Len Brown expects the economic benefits will be signicant.
"It will be outstanding for tourism but of course outstanding for our people," he says.
