Editorial: Ready to welcome the world

The Myanmar FIFA U20 World Cup team.

The lads from Myanmar must have wondered what they had driven into. Back home, it's the rainy season.

Here in Whangarei, it's raining. But a wee bit colder than the 38C that Myanmar's rainy season produces.

Hats, leggings and puffer jackets were all on display yesterday - clearly the Myanmar Under 20 national football team had done their research before hopping on the team bus and wending their way north.

Myanmar play the United States on Saturday at Whangarei's Northland Events Centre, in the opening round of the Fifa Under 20 World Cup.

Northland sports fans will also have a chance to see the Ukraine, Fiji and Uzbekistan Under 20 sides in action.

Today, the teams were to be welcomed to Whangarei on the Terenga Paraoa Marae, in Whangarei's Porowini Ave.

Rain aside, the city looks a treat at the moment and the Northland Events Centre, well, it's world class.

Remember the debate about the centre?

The investment and subsequent annual cost to ratepayers has been well worth it, as it has allowed Whangarei to showcase itself to the world.

Think back to the 2011 Rugby World Cup - sure, there is a different feel to the Fifa event but, behind the scenes, just as much planning and preparation is going into the event.

Congratulations should go to the people who made this event happen and, if you haven't got tickets yet, Fifa is giving away five double passes to the opening game this Saturday, through the Northern Advocate.

Keep an eye out in tomorrow's paper for how to win one of those double passes.