Eden Park pitch auction supports Christchurch

New Zealanders will shortly be able to claim a little piece of history and support a fantastic cause with the online auctioning of Eden Park’s hallowed turf.

Eden Park, the International Rugby Board (IRB) and Trade Me have teamed up to offer fans the ability to claim one of ten 30 x 30cm squares of the very area where Richie McCaw was presented with the Webb Ellis Cup last Sunday.

All proceeds from the auction will be donated to the IRB’s RWC Christchurch Appeal which helps the Rugby communities in Canterbury to continue the rebuilding efforts following the Christchurch earthquakes.

Said Rugby New Zealand 2011 CEO Martin Snedden "Despite the hardships of the past 12 months, the people of Christchurch have been an important part of the Stadium of Four Million.

This auction is a tremendous way to allow fans to own a small slice of RWC 2011 history and also show support for the Canterbury region."

This is a once in a lifetime chance to have a little piece of New Zealand Rugby history in your back yard. Yes – the turf can be transplanted and will grow in your own lawn.
A certificate will be provided and signed by all parties to certify that the turf is indeed legitimate after purchase.

IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “This wonderful initiative does not just offer New Zealanders the chance to own a little piece of Rugby World Cup history, but it will make an invaluable contribution to the RWC Christchurch Appeal.

“I would like to thank Eden Park and fans around the world for their generosity and support of the Canterbury Rugby community.”

The auction closes on Friday, November 4.

For more information on the RWC Christchurch Appeal and to make a donation, please visit www.rwcchristchurchappeal.com