KEY POINTS:
The first big sponsor for the 2011 Rugby World Cup has been named at a function in Auckland this morning.
Dubai-based airline Emirates says it will be the "world wide parter" for the tournament, which is being held in New Zealand.
Prime Minister Helen Clark, who was at the announcement, said the sponsorship deal was "a significant milestone" and a major step for the tournament.
Emirates is a big sponsor of major sporting events around the world, having been part of the FIFA World Cup, Team New Zealand's America's Cup challenge and the ICC Cricket World Cup. It is also the main sponsor of the Melbourne Cup.
The deal is likely to mean most of teams coming to New Zealand for the World Cup will fly on Emirates aircraft. While not confirming figures, the sponsorship is said to be "in the millions of pounds."
Emirates is one the trans-tasman rivals of Air New Zealand, which is a long-time sponsor of the All Blacks and domestic rugby.
