Big final: Everything fans need to know

Published date18 June 2022
Publication titleWeekend Herald
More than 45,000 ticket holders are expected to fill Eden Park seats, along with more on foot after a last-minute move by the stadium to make space for fans willing to stand

A bumper night is also expected at city bars and pubs, with patrons expected before — and long after — the big match’s 7.05pm kick-off.

The carnival atmosphere was also being encouraged from Eden Park and across the city, with the park lit blue from last night as part of the #blueeverywhere drive, Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner said.

“[We’re] lighting Eden Park blue ... and we’re hopeful other landmarks, such as SkyCity, Vector (Harbour) Bridge and the Auckland Museum will join us in lighting up blue as well.

“There’s no doubt the Blues’ performances have lifted the city’s confidence after such a challenging few years. [And] the imagery of a sellout Eden Park this weekend will undoubtedly assist with the revitalisation of Auckland’s economy.”

At nearby Morningside Tavern, owner Rod Bullenden has filled the chillers and called in extra staff to deal with the sporting spectacle up the road.

“We’ve probably doubled our capacity because we’re able to use the glass house next door, and I think the Blues might be dropping off a few bits and pieces of paraphernalia.

“People know and like what we do so they will be there to support the Blues and what we can put on for them beforehand.”

They’d already enjoyed increased custom as the hometown team smashed their way into the final.

Kingslander owner Steve Gillett was also expecting a bar-full of hungry and thirsty patrons.

“We’ll do almost three times what we normally do on a Saturday night ... it’s a life-saver for small businesses.”

The banter between traditional rivals Auckland and Canterbury was expected to add to the atmosphere.

“The Crusaders are obviously the epitome of the opposition, they have always been our nemesis. “For the local team to win against them would definitely be the best final.”

Like so many in their city in the last two and...

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