Sellout likely for third big game

Story by: ADAM ROBERTS - Photo by: By Chris Symes

Easter Saturday's Crusaders v Highlanders Super Rugby game at Trafalgar Park is heading towards a sellout.

The game, the third hosted by Nelson since the Christchurch earthquake, looks like it will be well-attended by fans from across the mainland.

Tasman Rugby Union commercial and marketing manager Les Edwards said he was "pretty confident" of a full house.

Sales were at about 60 per cent overall, with all tickets in the stands gone, and the embankment at about 30 per cent.

Most tickets had been bought by Nelson residents, but Cantabrians made up a significant number of ticket-holders.

The game itself was looking like it would be "a cracker", he said.

He looked forward to seeing Highlanders wing Kade Poki and assistant coach Kieren Keane, who double as Makos utility back and head coach respectively.

The two were "a couple of Makos coming home, but for the opposition", he said.

Both teams were scheduled to arrive in the city on Friday morning.

Although Metservice predicts a dry Saturday with light winds, a front moving towards the area could bring cloud in the evening, with the odd shower possible.

The match will also be a warm-up for Nelson City Council's Rugby World Cup traffic plan.

Trafalgar St will be closed to traffic from 5pm to 10pm on match day between Grove St and Wainui St, with residents and businesses able to access only with a permit.

Cars parked on Trafalgar St must be removed by 5pm or they will be towed at owner's expense.

Parking is also discouraged on State Highway 6, with those who do park there given an information leaflet by police, explaining the strict enforcement and fines that will be given at Rugby World Cup matches.

The council recommends parking in car parks in the central business district, because with the Easter DanceSport event at the Trafalgar Centre on the same day, parking will be scarce.