AMI Stadium unveils Showpiece Deans Stand

Christchurch's redeveloped rugby stadium had been officially opened following its makeover for next year's Rugby World Cup.

AMI Stadium, which will be known as Christchurch Stadium during the World Cup, has had a $60 million upgrade with the new 13,000 seat Deans Stand the centrepiece of the redevelopment.

The overall capacity has been increased to 38,628 with temporary seating boosting capacity to nearly 45,000 for the World Cup. The stadium will host five pool matches and two quarter-finals.

As Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited Chief Executive Martin Snedden explains "this is a significant milestone in our preparations for Rugby World Cup 2011.

"The upgrade ensures that Stadium Christchurch will be a showcase venue for RWC 2011.

"The venue has a long history of hosting top-quality events and the redevelopment will leave a lasting legacy for New Zealand sport and the people of Canterbury to enjoy for years to come."

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key attended the official opening which followed a traditional dawn blessing by local Maori.

The first sporting event to take place at the revamped venue will be an A-League football match between Wellington Phoenix and Adelaide United on 30th January.

The Crusaders Super 14 side will play their first game at the stadium on 13th February when they take on the Highlanders in the opening round.

During the Rugby World Cup, the weekend of the quarter-finals, which is predicted to include a showdown between the All Blacks and England, will, according to Bryan Pearson, Chief Executive of stadium managers Vbase "be an extravaganza like Christchurch has never seen before."

14th April 2009 - DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR CHRISTCHURCH VENUES

2nd June 2008 - NEW AMI STAND COMMEMORATES DEANS LEGACY