Due to predicted wet weather on Monday, 3rd October the RWC 2021 Teams Welcome is moving to SkyCity Theatre. Limited capacity in the Theatre means this event will no longer be open for public entry.

Aotearoa is preparing to roll out the welcome mat to teams and officials taking part in Rugby World Cup 2021 with a public event at Federal St, SkyCity in Auckland on Monday 3 October.

The official Team Welcome is open to the public, provided the weather is favourable, with fans encouraged to attend and show their support for the 12 teams and officials who will be taking to the field from 8 October to 12 November.

Starting at 12pm will be a cultural welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, before MC, renowned sports broadcaster, Rikki Swannell leads proceedings including an address from New Zealand’s Governor General, Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, a welcome from World Rugby and performances including from a Pasifika cultural group and the Papakura High School poets behind the RWC 2021 Champions video; Umisuma (Rosaline) Petelo, Pauline Kaulave, Ilhaam Sheik Freed and Mercy Lauesi.

Team captains and match officials will be presented with Rugby World Cup 2021 participation caps and medals before making their way back to their team bases in preparation for the opening weekend of the tournament on 8 October at Eden Park and 9 October at Northland Events Centre.

$2 per hour to a max of $12 on weekends and a $12 flat rate for weekday evenings at The Civic car park. Find out more

Last updated: 28 September 2022