Ruby Tui is in the starting lineup for the Black Ferns as they face Japan in a test for the first time. Photo: Photosport Ltd 2019
Eden Park is gearing up for a blockbuster weekend with Auckland to be treated to three sporting internationals.
The historic occasion will see two trans-Tasman clashes across two codes over two days and the Black Ferns taking on Japan in an inaugural test.
Though the Bledisloe Cup is safely locked away for a twentieth straight year, the Wallabies will be desperate for revenge after a controversial loss in Melbourne last week.
The Black Ferns are heavily favoured to rout the Japanese while the All Whites will take on Australia again after a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to the Socceroos on Thursday.
All Black George Bower does a dance for the All Blacks and Black Ferns on the eve of the double-header at Eden Park. Photo: Photosport / Andrew Cornaga
Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner said they were expecting close to 100,000 fans across the two days.
Organisers have called on volunteers from churches and rugby clubs to cater for the influx of fans.
Executive director for Eden Park Catering Maria Syme said they have appealed to the community and they have answered.
"We have got about 850 volunteers which is amazing and we will make a donation to a charity of their choice."
Syme said volunteers will be helping with a range of tasks from opening beers to washing dishes.
About 100 will return on Sunday to assist with the football.
"It is one of our busiest weekends, up there with the NRL nines, Rugby World Cup and Lions tour."
Eden Park will host 100,000 people this weekend. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Venue catering manager Etta Jones said they have had to fly in chefs from Australia to help feed punters.
"An event like this is no easy feat, it takes a lot of resources and so many people working tirelessly."
Jones said the opportunity to showcase a sold out stadium was something to be proud of.
By the numbers:
- 3 international games
- 100,000 fans
- 2000 staff
- 850 volunteers
- 50,000 beers
- 7000 punnets of chips
- 40,000 corporate food items
- 50 chefs
