The Crusaders will finally play at their new home on Friday when Christchurch’s long-awaited Te Kaha or One New Zealand Stadium officially opens its doors for the first time.
And for many in the city, it’s far bigger than rugby.
The state-of-the-art 30,000-seat arena rises from the scars left by the devastating 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed much of Christchurch – including the iconic Lancaster Park.
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That stadium never reopened after the disaster, leaving the Crusaders without a permanent base for more than a decade.
Now, after years of delays and rebuilding, the NZ$683 million – or R6.6 billion – venue will host its first match when the Crusaders face the Waratahs in front of a sellout crowd.
For players and supporters, the moment carries huge emotional weight.
“It’s real beautiful and a great representation of our region,” said All Blacks and Crusaders back Leicester Fainga’anuku.
“This place has become the heart of the city and it’s something our people deserve.
“From the moment we heard about the new build and what it means to us and our people, it gets you excited.”
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Head coach Rob Penney admitted it had been “a long wait”, while flyhalf Taha Kemara said the city had been waiting years for this moment.
The Crusaders built a fearsome reputation at Rugby League Park after being forced out of Lancaster Park following the earthquake, winning eight Super Rugby titles in nine seasons there.
Now they hope Te Kaha becomes rugby’s newest fortress.
Friday’s clash will also see Fainga’anuku make a surprise switch to flanker, while All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor returns to boost the side.
– AFP
Photo: @Worldstadium_EN/X
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