Venue guide: Wellington

The 'Cake Tin': Wellington Regional Stadium

Stadium: Wellington Regional Stadium

Location: Situated in central Wellington, the stadium is close to major train and bus routes

Capacity: 40 000 (with temporary seating)

Matches: South Africa v Wales, Sunday September 11

South Africa v Fiji, Saturday September 17

Australia v USA, Friday September 23

Argentina v Scotland, Sunday September 25

France v Tonga, Saturday October 1

New Zealand v Canada, Sunday October 2

Quarter-final 1, Saturday October 8

Quarter-final 3, Sunday October 9

Stadium history:

For the period of Rugby World Cup 2011, the multi-purpose Westpac Stadium will be known as the Wellington Regional Stadium and its capacity will be increased by 4 000 thanks to temporary seating. Home to the Hurricanes during the Super Rugby season, the Wellington Lions in the ITM Cup and the host of the World Sevens Series when it comes to New Zealand, the stadium has also been the venue of international cricket matches. Opened in 2000, the stadium is built in the city’s rail yards and has the beautiful natural harbour as its backdrop. Due to its shape and silver coloured external walls, it is colloquially known as the ‘Cake Tin’.

The rest of the city:

The capital city of New Zealand, Wellington is located on the tip of the North Island and is surrounded by untainted coastline. Wellington is a very walkable, compact city for those who would like to explore its waterfront, cafes and boutiques, while cable cars make the hilly terrain outside of the city easier to negotiate. The self proclaimed ‘coolest little capital in the world’, Wellington boosts an impressive combination of historical and political landmarks, natural wonders and contemporary hot spots.

Fun things to do and see:

Head to the Mount Victoria Lookout to take in the beautiful views of the city and watch the Cook Strait ferries sail into the harbour. Once you’ve finished enjoying the panoramic views, use the famous Wellington Cable Cars to head up to the Botanical Gardens or pay a visit to the ZEALANDIA: The Karori Sanctuary Experience and enjoy an interactive look at New Zealand’s incredible wildlife. In downtown Wellington head to the fascinating Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the country’s national museum where you can immerse yourself in all things New Zealand. Take a trip to Cuba Street, an area with a great Bohemian feel, to enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience.

Where to quench your thirst and fill your belly:

There will be a number of Fan Zones created across the city that will consist of big screens, live entertainment and, of course, plenty of food and drink. The two primary Fan Zones will be the waterfront and Courtenay Place district. Mac’s Brewbar will be at the heart of the waterfront festivities and promises a great atmosphere. In Courtenay Place you’ll find the Malthouse, a real hit with over eighty types of beer from around the world. For a more refined dining experience, consider a trip to the Thistle Inn, the city’s oldest restaurant or Logan Brown, one of New Zealand’s top restaurants. Having been named New Zealand restaurant of the year and New Zealand bar of the year on multiple occasions, it’s safe to say that you won’t be disappointed by the Matterhorn.

Getting there and around:

Wellington International Airport is just twenty minutes from the city centre. There are numerous shuttles and taxis options available at the airport including the state-of-the-art Airport Flyer bus service. One can also catch a ferry from the South Island to Wellington or a train from Auckland. Once in Wellington, there is an extensive bus and trail system at your disposal.

There are a number of ways to get to Wellington Regional Stadium; the stadium is a 15 minute walk from the city centre and you’ll join up with the 680-metre elevated walkway that takes you to the entrance of the stadium. Bus and rail services are available to Wellington Railway Station from where one joins up with the walkway to the stadium for a 10 minute walk to the ground. A special shuttle service from the city to the stadium runs on matchdays. With only limited car parking available near the stadium, supporters are encouraged to make use of public transport options.