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Wellington ready to host the All Blacks twice in 2020

The ball has bounced Wellington’s way with Wales and Bledisloe Cup rivals Australia set to tackle the might of the All Blacks at Sky Stadium in 2020.

The All Blacks will play Wales on 11 July and Australia on 15 August. Kick off for both matches is at 7.35pm.

WellingtonNZ General Manager Warrick Dent says both All Blacks tests – a test match is generally worth $7 to $9 million to the local economy – will have massive appeal during the slower winter months for tourism.

“Australia is already Wellington’s largest international tourism market so we can expect to see plenty of green and gold in town as Wallabies fans take the opportunity to have a long weekend break in the Capital to take in the test against the All Blacks.

“On the other hand, Wales doesn’t tour New Zealand too often and opportunities are therefore limited for All Blacks fans to see them on home soil. This will make the test irresistible to many ABs supporters from throughout New Zealand, including drive time visitors who are such an important market for Wellington.”

Wellington Mayor Andy Foster says Wellington is delighted to host the All Blacks twice in one year, especially against two of the top teams in world rugby.

"It will be 20 years since our stadium hosted its first All Blacks test match which was against the Wallabies, and it’s fitting that on this anniversary we meet Australia again - this time we hope we can reverse the result from that first match.

"We also look forward to hosting the Welsh, four years after their first test match in the Capital. Test matches bring big crowds to the city. I am sure Wellingtonians will turn on our famous hospitality for all our visitors, and I’m sure people will take the opportunity to spend a couple of days in the Capital City."

Sky Stadium Chief Executive Shane Harmon says it’s fantastic that once again Wellington has secured two tests matches.

“Stretching back to 2014, the last eight rugby internationals in Wellington have all sold out and we expect that pattern to continue for the matches against Wales and Australia. Its particularly pleasing to bring the Bledisloe Cup match back to the capital after a four-year absence”

General Manager Operations New Zealand – EVENT Hotels & Resorts Simon White says it’s exciting to have two All Blacks tests in Wellington in 2020.

“It provides Wellington with significant international and domestic exposure as a destination as well as local engagement through the city’s exceptional food and beverage outlets.

“Winter is traditionally a softer period for Hotel accommodation and events, however by securing international test matches we see a very busy weekend from both locals and, in the case of 2020, from Australia.”

Hospitality NZ Wellington Branch President Matt McLaughlin says Wellington will be buzzing during the two test match weekends.

“The calibre of teams will mean a full house for the stadium and for the city’s bars and restaurants in the middle of winter, traditionally a slow time of year for us.

“The boost will make a real difference to the industry.”

Secure your seats now for both test matches by becoming a Westpac Stadium member. Click here to find out more information.

You can keep up to date with future ticketing information at allblacks.com/tickets. Preferential windows for ticket purchases in the new year will be available to Team All Blacks members. Members of the local Provincial Union or Investec Super Rugby clubs where the Test matches are being played can also get early access.