Giant rugby ball tackles Tokyo
11 Sep 2009
New Zealand’s unique giant rugby ball is soon to make an appearance at another iconic location - the Tokyo Tower in downtown Tokyo.
Speaking at a ceremony marking two-years from the start of the Rugby World Cup 2011, NZ Prime Minister John Key announced that the ball would be positioned in Toyko in October.
The giant rugby ball has already made public appearances in Paris and London, supporting New Zealand’s build up as hosts of the Rugby World Cup 2011.
Tokyo Tower
The rugby ball will be in Tokyo from 28 October to 3 November, 2011.
In central Tokyo, the Tokyo Tower is a high-profile site in that draws around 3.2 million people annually or 10,000 per day.
The latest positioning of the ball coincides with an All Blacks - Wallabies test match and two major business, and diplomatic events involving the Japan - New Zealand Business Council and Japan - New Zealand Partnership Forum.
It is the first time the Bledisloe Cup game has been played outside New Zealand.
Showcasing New Zealand
Tourism New Zealand chief executive George Hickton said that the ball would host a range of functions showcasing New Zealand’s produce, food, wine, business, education, tourism and immigration opportunities.
The structure is a versatile event space that can host up to 160 guests.
An eye-catching and innovative sound and light show of New Zealand tourism, nature, culture, food and wine and creative industries will be projected on to the inner structure.
During the installation, over 7000 people are expected to enter the ball to view the video show.
In the evenings, it will become the hub for New Zealand-hosted trade and industry events and functions, taking the best of NZ Inc. to the world.
More information:
Rugby World Cup 2011 countdown
Four million Kiwis prepare to roar
RWC 2011: host cities
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