With AMI Stadium badly damaged by earthquakes in September and February, the NZD $20 million facility will serve the city’s needs for the three to five years once construction is completed in March 2012.
New Zealand Football chief executive Grant McKavanagh said the 17,000-seat venue – capacity can be increased to 25,000 with temporary seating – would be a welcome addition to options for future All Whites and Football Ferns matches as well as the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
“Combined with the opening of ASB Football Park last month, the new stadium means Christchurch will have the football infrastructure to enjoy all aspects of the game, from Whole of Football initiatives at junior and youth level, to local and national league matches and now high-profile international fixtures as well,” McKavanagh says.
“It’s also an important step in Christchurch being able to host matches during the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup, an event which will give the city valuable worldwide exposure.”
The Wellington Phoenix, who last year attracted a bumper crowd for Christchurch’s first A-League match, are also looking forward to a chance to re-connect with South Island fans.
“We would welcome a return to playing in Christchurch at a venue with international standing and the chance to show our support for the city,” Wellington Phoenix CEO Nathan Greenham says.
“We have a huge number of fans in the South Island and our past games in Christchurch have attracted great crowds. We look forward to this venue being developed.”
Story courtesy of New Zealand Football.
For more on New Zealand football go to www.nzfootball.co.nz

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