Park reveals 109-year-old ‘lucky charm’ rugby connection

Media release

Alexandra Park

Friday, 7 July 2017

Park reveals 109-year-old ‘lucky charm’ rugby connection

Alexandra Park says its role in providing accommodation and hospitality for rugby fans this weekend might just be a good omen for the All Blacks as they take on The British & Irish Lions for the all-important third Test decider at Eden Park.

Alexandra Park’s Sales & Marketing Manager, Joel Reichardt, says while the Park is steeped in harness racing history, it also boasts a proud historic connection to a critical Lions encounter over a century ago.

Mr Reichardt has dusted off the history books which show the All Blacks beating the touring Anglo-Welsh Lions by 29-0 when they played at Alexandra Park, known then as Potters Paddock, on 25 July 1908.

Twelve thousand people reportedly attended the Alexandra Park Test match which marked the last of the New Zealand tour. What’s more, it was the third Test and series decider after the Lions drew 3-3 with the All Blacks in Wellington the month before.

“The fact that we’ve been given an official role this weekend as a pop-up campervan site builds on Alexandra Park’s long connections to rugby.

“Let’s not forget the Auckland Blues’ training headquarters is based here and of course they were victorious against the Lions at Eden Park on 7 June. So, we’re all hoping the Alexandra Park rugby association bodes well for another positive result this Saturday.”

Mr Reichardt says they’re receiving more campervan bookings for this weekend than they did for the first Test. Fans are paying $100 per self-contained campervan per night for two people, with an extra $15 for each additional guest.

Facilities available to campers at Alexandra Park’s non-powered sites include plenty of toilets and showers, dumping facilities, charging stations, on-site security, a pop-up information centre and 24/7 telephone helpline. Plenty of atmosphere is also guaranteed with access to the newly-upgraded Alex Bar & Eatery, specific food and beverage deals, and of course free entry to Alexandra Park’s iconic Friday night trots.

“I suspect after hearing about Alexandra Park’s legendary role in such a critical Test match over a century ago, Lions fans will probably be keener to stay with us to see if some of our magic can rub off on them,” says Joel Reichardt.

For further information on the campervan sites, or bookings, contact Danielle Upton (booking co-ordinator) on (027) 808-2362 ordanielle.upton@alexandrapark.nz or visit https://www.alexandrapark.co.nz/rugby-tour-campervan-parking

www.alexandrapark.co.nz

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