Wellington Sevens party well underway

Phoenix Rana Sorensen enjoying the atmosphere during the Hertz Sevens Tournament at Westpac Stadium in Wellington. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Despite warnings Wellington Sevens revellers would not be let into the stadium if they were "sloshed", the party was well underway as hoards of Fred Flinstones, gladiators and robbers made their way to Wellington's biggest party this afternoon.

The first game in Wellington's leg of the Sevens International Series kicked off at 1pm, with 16 teams competing in 14-minute games over the next two days.

The tournament, known just as much for the party and dress ups as it is for the rugby, swung into full gear this morning as thousands of people from around the country poured onto Wellington's streets and into Westpac Stadium.

The streets of central Wellington were splashed with colour by groups dressed as robbers, hippies, ninjas, and pirates, with many party-goers opting to miss the first few games and start the party at bars in town.

An announcement over the loud-speaker system at the stadium warned revellers they would not be let into the stadium if they were "sloshed".

Young children through to the old were spotted joining in the dress-up fun.

One man, Mo Mackey, had brought his 7-year-old son Breyton along to experience today's tournament.

Breyton had picked out their matching robbers outfits, but he said he hadn't yet decided which team to support.

Mr Mackey's partner and daughter would be attending tomorrow's section of the tournament. The experience was a christmas present for their children, Mr Mackey said.

A group of six ninjas, originally from England, Wales and North Ireland, but living in Auckland, had made their way to Wellington for their first sevens experience.

One of the ninjas said she was very excited, but was worried her costume might get too hot.

A plan to get supporters to the tournament early has seen Museum Hotel put up $25,000 in prize money for costumes.

Individuals and groups could enter a catwalk competition from 12.30 to 2.30pm today and tomorrow.

The winner would be announced on the field on Saturday evening.

Tickets for this weekend's tournament sold out within three minutes late last year.

The final game would be played at 9.30pm on Saturday.