22 May 2017

Wellington Sevens moving to Hamilton

10:50 am on 22 May 2017

New Zealand Rugby has confirmed the struggling Wellington Sevens tournament is moving to Hamilton from 2018.

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Photo: Photosport

The Wellington Sevens has been part of the HSBC World Rugby Seven Series since 2000 and was one of the most popular events on the New Zealand sporting calendar.

However, in recent years the event has struggled to attract the large crowds it was renowned for at the height of its popularity.

In 2016, New Zealand Rugby recorded its first financial loss from the Wellington Sevens and the writing appeared on the wall for a move.

The All Black Sevens won nine times in Wellington - the team's spiritual home - enjoying victory most recently in 2016.

Hamilton's Waikato Stadium will host the event from 2018 on a two-year contract, with the date event's date remaining in early February.

New Zealand Rugby operations officer Nigel Cass said he was confident Hamilton could restore the event to its former glory.

"Hamilton and the Waikato region are rugby mad and we're looking forward to introducing international sevens to the local community and for visiting fans from around New Zealand to experience the heart of rugby in New Zealand.

"We are confident our partners in Hamilton will deliver an exceptional tournament that fans will love on the weekend of 3 and 4 February."