New Zealand will host the sport's global showpiece in 2011 © IRB

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Teams New Zealand

Groups representing 18 different regions across New Zealand have lodged proposals to host pool matches or visiting teams during the 2011 rugby World Cup.

Of the 18 regional proposals, 11 have applied to host pool matches, comprising 16 separate match venues, while seven regions have applied to host teams only. In addition to the 40 pool matches, this process also includes proposals to create team bases for the 20 teams either in the leadup to the tournament or between matches.

Rugby New Zealand (RNZ) 2011 Ltd chief executive Martin Snedden was pleased with the level of interest. "We have been working closely with regions throughout New Zealand and, practically without exception, every part of the country has been exploring how they can be a part of Rugby World Cup 2011," Snedden said in a statement.

"The response has been exceptional and demonstrates how much New Zealand regions want to be involved in this once in a lifetime opportunity."

The regions which applied to host pool matches are Northland, Auckland, Hamilton, Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, Manawatu, Wellington, Nelson Tasman region, Christchurch and the southern region (Otago/Southland). Auckland and the southern region's proposals contain three venues while Bay of Plenty's proposal includes two venues.

All of these regions have also included applications to host teams as part of their proposals. Regions which have applied to host teams only are Marlborough, Tairawhiti (Poverty Bay/East Coast), Taupo, Aoraki region (Timaru), Ashburton, West Coast, and Wanganui.

"This has been a major undertaking for all concerned so we are extremely grateful for all the work that the participating regions, cities and towns have done to get the process to this stage," Snedden said.

"Based on an initial look at the proposals, they are of exceptionally high quality and reflect the unity, passion and support of the participating regional groups."

RNZ 2011 will assess every proposal using four strategic goals.

* Delivering an operationally excellent tournament

* Achieving capacity crowds and achieving the budgeted financial result or better

* Inspiring a nationwide Rugby World Cup festival

* Creating enduring benefits.

Rugby World Cup Limited will announce the make-up of the four pools for the tournament following the pool allocation draw in London on December 1.

Decisions on match venues as well as the match schedule are expected to be announced in March or April next year following a recommendation by the Board of RNZ 2011 to Rugby World Cup Limited. Team bases will be announced late next year.

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