All tickets for the Vodafone Warriors season-opener tonight have now been taken, following the club’s announcement that following the heinous crimes in Christchurch and in an act of unity with all New Zealanders, all remaining tickets would be available free of charge.
Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George says the response from the public has been overwhelming.
“As a nation we are hurting, and as New Zealand’s only team in the NRL we wanted to encourage the public to join us tonight to collectively acknowledge those who have been affected in yesterday’s devastating acts. We wanted to use tonight’s match as an opportunity for the New Zealand public to stand shoulder to shoulder, and the public has clearly shown they want to be part of this.
“Let’s stand as one tonight. We will not be deterred. Our house is your house, just as our New Zealand is your New Zealand,” he said.
The allocation of tickets has been restricted to just over 20,000 to ensure Auckland Stadiums can logistically manage the crowd size in terms of traffic management and catering and therefore, will not be opening the upper south stand.
George reiterated that additional security measures have been put in place for tonight’s game, to ensure patrons feel safe at all times.
“We have been in constant contact with Auckland Stadiums and the New Zealand Police and I can assure fans we take their safety very seriously.”
Patrons can take note of the Text Assist service to report anything directly to Mount Smart’s Venue Operations Centre – simply text the word ASSIST then your message to 260.
The Vodafone Warriors will wear black armbands in their season-opener and a minute’s silence will also be observed by both teams before kick-off. The New Zealand national anthem will also be played.
