More fun for finals weeks at the Fanzone

With less than two weeks left of Rugby World Cup 2011 and just in time for the school holidays, the entertainment has stepped it up a notch at the Fanzone in North Hagley Park.

The biggest attraction is the crowd atmosphere the Fanzone will create for this Saturday’s live France v Wales semi-final match and Sunday’s big trans-Tasman rivalry in the Australia v New Zealand semi-final, both kicking off at 9pm.

There will also be five big music acts performing across this weekend in the Fanzone including local favourites The Easy Hearts and The Black Velvet Band.

However there is a lot more on offer in the lead up to these big matches according to Christchurch City Council Marketing Manager Richard Stokes.

“A show not to be missed is the final performances of the Outwits’ Complete History of World Rugby (abridged) this Thursday 13 and Friday 14 October, 6pm at the Fanzone.

“People will really enjoy this free show which runs through the history of world rugby, tackling its greatest achievements, its tragedies and everything in between. You have to see it to believe it.”

Rock/pop covers band Aftershock will kick off the entertainment from 5pm to 6pm before the Outwits performances this Thursday and Friday. The Fanzone bar will be open between 5pm to 7pm both nights offering food and beverages.

Next Sunday 23 October will be the biggest night of the Tournament with the RWC 2011 final. There will be pre-match entertainment, with live music from The Thomas Oliver Band and internationally renowned artist Anika Moa.

Just across from the Fanzone, the entertainment, activity and treats continue at the Presenting Canterbury festival which opened last Sunday 9 October and will continue through to the end of the Tournament on Sunday 23 October. The free event is open daily from 11am to 5pm with retail stalls, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, face painting, a bouncy castle, live music, court jesters, buskers and dance acts.

“It’s a great opportunity to take a second look at what’s on around Canterbury and it’s a fantastic chance to entertain the kids for free during the school holidays,” says Mr Stokes.

“If you haven’t been to the Fanzone to check it out – this is your last chance. We’re nearing the end of the Tournament and the matches are really heating up – it’s time for Canterbury to come together and show their support for New Zealand.”

Visit www.christchurchnz2011.com for more information on Rugby activity in Christchurch and to view the complete events schedule at the Fanzone.