Jones calls for 5000 volunteers with a passion for rugby

Michael Jones. Photo / Brett Phibbs

A ticket to the Rugby World Cup final will cost up to $1250, but a lucky few will get to see it for free.

Tournament organisers are calling for 5000 volunteers to fill stadium jobs during the nine-week tournament.

Volunteer ambassador Michael Jones said:

"This is a massive event, bigger than anything New Zealand has seen so we need plenty of help."

He called on people with "passion" to sign up.

Programme manager Brendon Ward said helpers would be needed to work in the media centre, ushers, and to ferry people around the grounds. Volunteers needed to be at least 17 years old with a clean police record.

About 5500 people had registered but he wanted more to have the best possible selection. Candidates would be put through an interview before being selected as a volunteer.

The minimum number of shifts was nine in Auckland, and seven in Wellington and Christchurch, and three in other centres. About 16 hours training will be given between May and August next year.

Register at www.rugbyworldcup.com before September 24 to apply to be a volunteer.