All Blacks to descend on Chiefs Country

Get ready New Zealand – the 2019 Rugby World Cup All Blacks are heading out across the country on their ninth annual All Blacks to the Nation tour next Thursday 29 August.

Just a day after the All Blacks selectors name their 31-strong 2019 Rugby World Cup in Auckland, All Blacks will travel in groups flying into Whangarei, Hamilton, Tauranga, Gisborne, Christchurch and Queenstown to spend time with fans in the Whangarei, Matamata, Mt Maunganui, Gisborne, Rolleston, Christchurch and Wakatipu communities.

An initiative started in 2011 when New Zealand hosted the Rugby World Cup, the All Blacks have headed to the provinces every year before embarking on their overseas tours, thanks to the support of longstanding sponsor, Air New Zealand.

All Blacks Captain Kieran Read said All Blacks to the Nation is always one of the highlights on the team’s calendar.

“We really look forward to this event every year as the players get to go to different parts of the country and meet fans from all walks of life.

“We’re reminded of just how passionate our fans are and it is a great opportunity for the boys to thank them all for their support before we head into our last Test match at home against Tonga and then onto Japan.”

Air New Zealand General Manager Global Brand and Content Marketing Jodi Williams said the airline was excited to bring fans and players together in the build up to Japan.

“As a longstanding sponsor of the All Blacks we can’t wait to take the team across our network and give passionate supporters the chance to host their heroes. With our latest safety video Air All Blacks now inflight, we’re excited to help communities across the country feel part of the team.”

The only opportunity to see the Rugby World Cup squad play in New Zealand will be in Hamilton, against Tonga.

All Blacks v Tonga
FMG Stadium, Hamilton
Saturday 7 September 2019
Kick Off: 2.35pm