The fight for the 2007 Rugby World Cup is over and South Africa have taken the trophy home after England lost the title despite a fierce challenge all the way to the finals.
Although New Zealand rugby fans were in mourning after the All Blacks had an unpredicted early exit, the country is now getting ready to host the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
About 60,000 visitors from around the world are expected to come to New Zealand for the cup in September and October 2011. It will be an exciting time to be in the country.
To prepare new arrivals for New Zealand’s rugby culture we’ve put together a rugby page with guides to our national sport, the All Blacks and the history of the Haka.
All Black winger Doug Howlett explains “In New Zealand, you look in any backyard or any school, there’s a rugby ball being tossed around, whether it’s touch rugby, rugby, rugby league, it’s all a similar skill set.”
You can find out more about Howlett and discover his favourite places in NZ or take a sneak peak inside Tourism New Zealand’s giant rugby ball next to the Eiffel Tower in France.
History of the Haka
Doug Howlett interview
Inside the giant rugby ball
For more background on the Rugby World Cup and what it means to NZ check out Tourism New Zealand’s website.