(PR.co.nz) In an unprecedented move, an invitation by Welsh Rugby Manager Alan Phillips will see Taupō promoted at the first of the RBS Six Nations match at the Millennium Stadium in February.
Not only will Taupō 2011 Rugby ambassador Sir Colin Meads (Pinetree) get the opportunity to address the rugby mad sell-out crowd of 75,000 fans attending the first match in the between Wales and England on 4 February 2011, but a promotional video for the Taupō District, produced by Destination Great Lake Taupō, will also be screened before the game.
Council’s Deputy CEO Anne McLeod said this extraordinary offer will result in a level of exposure and media opportunities that no other district in NZ has. “We are extremely fortunate to have Sir Colin Meads, living legend and ‘Player of the Century’ willing to promote our region basically for free.” She says media interest in Sir Colin, particularly in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup 2011 is incredibly high with a number of interviews already scheduled with the BBC, ITV and other significant British media outlets. “We simply could not ask for more.”
Two members of the Taupo2011 team will accompany Sir Colin, Deputy Mayor Mike Downard and also King Country Rugby CEO David Trewavas. Council has approved travel costs and expenses for Clr Downard and Sir Colin. Mr Trewavas will not be funded by Council and will pay his own way. The trio are also looking at attending the second Six Nations game in Ireland the following Friday with potentially similar opportunities being offered.
Clr Mike Downard says “we know that around 85,000 visitors are coming to New Zealand with over 28,000 tickets already purchased from the Six Nations fans in England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and France. “A large number of those attending have not yet booked their accommodation so not only do we want to encourage them to come over for the Rugby World Cup we want them to base themselves here in Taupō for the duration. We reckon a personal invitation from Pinetree Meads to 75,000 Welsh and English fans will cut through all the hype and give people travelling down under something to think about.”
Media Release 28 January 2011 from Taupo District Council.