Rugby World Cup and the Opportunities it Presents

All over New Zealand, local authorities are trying to make the most of the opportunities presented to them by the Rugby World Cup that is to be held in New Zealand later this year. To many councils this is the biggest event of the year. This is elucidated through local authority expenditure relating to the event. For example Wellington has budgeted $350,000 for a sweep of its streets and Kapiti $80,000 to clean its parks and toilets. The Auckland Council has a budget of $100 million regarding the World Cup. Virtually every council is trying to get in the money with the Rugby World Cup. The main attraction must certainly be the economic potential that the event has to offer.


Economic development is one of the important functions of local government. District Plans, partnerships, economic development agencies and the rating system is used by local councils to encourage economic development. In the case of the Rugby World Cup probably all of these tools will be used to encourage the event. 


However, will the economic benefits outweigh the costs?


New Zealand will spend approximately 1.2 billion dollars on investments for the Rugby World Cup, but is predicted to only make 700 million dollars in direct economic returns. That is a predicted shortfall of 500 million dollars. So to answer the question in terms of economic profit the simple answer is no.


However, it must be realized that the Rugby World Cup will do more than just satisfy our coffers. The RWC will present opportunities that will positively increase our social, cultural, and environmental well-being as well. 


Let me give you an example of each:


Environmental:


An area that has been targeted for development for the RWC is Jelicoe Street. It has incorporated urban design principles to form an urban environment that is pedestrian friendly and appealing to tourist's and even locals.  The pictures below represent what Jelicoe Street looks like now and what it is predicted to look like in the future when the RWC arrives. This is only one example of the many urban regeneration projects that may be coming to the fore because of the RWC. Essentially this will not only be used by the tourists that come to visit during the tournament, it will also be used by current, and future New Zealander's. 

Source: Waterfront Development

Social:


Hosting a major event is often accompanied by a feeling of local, regional, and national pride. National unity and social inclusion creates an atmosphere that is tolerant of others, caring, and inviting. This is extremely important considering the fact that twenty countries will be participating in the cup which means twenty different cultures and perspectives coming into New Zealand. The RWC also puts New Zealand on the map globally and allows us to showcase our talent in the sport of rugby. 

Source: NZ Herald

Cultural:


The creation of a Maori cultural pavilion on the waterfront presents the opportunity to showcase Maori culture to tourists that are going to be in Auckland for the Rugby World Cup. The waterfront is the jewel of Auckland and the position that this pavilion will sit on will no doubt attract many visitors. The waka will be an iconic feature of the event in my opinion and will also produce greater economic and social benefits to the region. Giant tekoteko carved figures situated around Eden Park will also showcase one form of Maori culture. Around the country other Maori culture initiatives are also being used to display culture. 


All in all i think that the benefits do outweigh the costs when it comes to the RWC. This is an opportunity to claim back the Webb Ellis Trophy but also an opportunity to showcase to the world the many positive aspects of our country. And although the economic benefits may be less than what was expected, it cannot be argued that the long term effects of this tournament will leave NZ better off.