Test proves Bay is ready for big rugby

THE recent Tri-Nations rugby game between the Springboks and New Zealand All Blacks has set the stage for Nelson Mandela Bay as an ideal events destination.

The Nelson Mandela Bay stadium was abuzz with a vibrant capacity crowd, spurring the Boks on to a spectacular 18-5 victory over their much-hyped arch enemies, the All Blacks. The city also pulled out all the stops to host visitors in style.

“That weekend showed that we are ready for big rugby. The support was beyond phenomenal as people poured into the city from all over the country. Our accommodation occupancy figures soared to between 98 and 100 percent full,” said Mandlakazi Skefile Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) chief executive.

She said these figures did not however factor in the people who stayed with family and friends in the Bay. These figures would push the number of people who came into the city even higher, said Skefile.

With perfect weather conditions, the city bustled with diverse visitors from across South Africa. International rugby supporters could also be spotted around the city. Springbok coach Peter de Villiers said the support that the Boks received was great as was the much needed win against the All Blacks.

Both the Springboks and the All Blacks received a rousing welcome from Nelson Mandela Bay residents who swarmed the towering guests, taking pictures and getting autographs signed at the airport, Greenacres shopping centre, NMMU sports centre and downtown Port Elizabeth.

The city also reaped the benefits of hosting a big event of this type. “The spinoffs of such an event are huge, rippling over the whole tourism industry and I think this rugby game is a precursor of great things to come. The upcoming IRB Sevens World Series in December will give us another chance to prove our mettle as an outstanding events and sports destination,” said Skefile.

With the December IRB Sevens World Series, Nelson Mandela Bay again prepares to host thousands of passionate fans  in the Friendly City. The South African leg of the fast-paced IRB Sevens World Series rugby takes place on December 9 and 10 at the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium.

“Each successful event we pull off shows that we are an ideal events destination and all of our key attributes, like being the 15-minute, friendly, safe, clean and fun city, are helping us win the hearts of big event organisers and their supporters,” Skefile added.