The event drew over 70,000 fans during the Anzac Day weekend, receiving enthusiastic coverage in local media and being hailed as a triumph by Super Rugby Pacific’s chief executive, Jack Mesley.
The city, located on New Zealand’s South Island, has been in a phase of reconstruction since a catastrophic 6.3 magnitude earthquake in 2011, which resulted in 185 fatalities, widespread destruction, and the closure of Canterbury rugby’s previous home, Lancaster Park.
In the interim, a temporary stadium was utilized until the $683 million covered Te Kaha stadium was inaugurated on Friday night, where the Crusaders defeated the New South Wales Waratahs 35-20.
Throughout the weekend, the Hurricanes dominated the ACT Brumbies 45-12, the Blues narrowly overcame the Queensland Reds 35-33 on Saturday, and on Sunday, the Highlanders triumphed over Moana Pasifika 27-17, while the Chiefs concluded the event with a 42-22 win against the Fijian Drua.
ChristchurchNZ, a government-affiliated economic development and events agency, expressed interest in securing a longer-term arrangement for the Super Round, complementing the city’s existing three-year contract to host a round of the Supercars motor sport championship.
“The three-year Supercars contract is a great model. We’d love to establish a ‘super week’ that Christchurch can truly claim as its own,” stated Ali Adams, CEO of ChristchurchNZ, to reporters.
“The most successful events are those that are deeply connected to their location and remain there.”
The Super Round, previously held in Melbourne, struggled with attendance and was paused for a year following the removal of the Melbourne Rebels from the competition at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Approximately 13,000 visitors came to Christchurch for the weekend, with organizers estimating an economic boost exceeding $6 million for the local economy.
“I think that’s a conservative figure,” Adams remarked regarding the economic impact.
“Given the favorable weather and the high level of activity in the city, we anticipate surpassing that estimate.”
Mesley noted that while other cities have shown interest in hosting the event, Christchurch’s proposal will be prioritized.
“The Crusaders and the city were instrumental in bringing the event back, so we will start discussions with them first,” he said.
“However, we will also explore opportunities with other locations.”
