Every Kiwi in the country is counting down to the Rugby World Cup 2011 and with only five months to go (yay!) the special makeover of Auckland’s waterfront, dubbed Party Central, is in full swing.
‘The Cloud’ at Party Central is emerging on Auckland’s Queen’s Wharf. The 178.5-metre long white cloud is a brand-new multi-purpose venue which can hold up to 6,000 people and can be split into four sections to host VIP functions, displays and concerts. During the Rugby World Cup 2011 its mezzanine floor will act as a base for international media. The Cloud will also be your place to be to relax, watch the Rugby World Cup 2011 games on the big screen and simply enjoy the stunning Auckland harbour views.
Across the road, Auckland’s Britomart Precinct sees new stylish bars, restaurants, clubs and upmarket shops open weekly as the 18 heritage buildings around Britomart Square are being restored. Some of the latest additions to the Britomart Precinct are Japanese restaurant and sake bar Ebisu and roof terrace bar Tyler Street Garage Bar & Bistro, and on the former Oriental Market site a multi-storey car park has just opened.
Further down the Auckland waterfront Wynyard Quarter is transforming into a new suburb which will become an entertainment hot-spot in time for the Rugby World Cup 2011, while the North Wharf is expected to open in several months, housing ten eateries in old cargo sheds. Other parts of the waterfront are being converted from pier car parks to spaces for use by campervans.
On top of that, Auckland heritage tramways will celebrate their comeback for the Rugby World Cup 2011 after more than 50 years. Tracks are being laid to loop around Jellicoe, Halsey, Gaunt and Daldy Streets.
So make sure you visit Auckland's waterfront for dining, shopping, relaxing and partying on your New Zealand holiday! If you’re looking for Rugby World Cup Auckland accommodation or other Auckland events and activities, browse our site and the fun can begin!