Rugby World Cup: No repeat of travel chaos

Irish rugby supporters crammed into local bars after their team beat Australia last night, but the trains were running smoothly. Photo / Dean Purcell.

New Zealand's Irish pubs had to deal with the big crowds last night after Ireland's historic win over the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, but Auckland's transport system stood up to the test.

Auckland's 14 Irish pubs were jam packed with revellers last night, forcing some fans to celebrate on pavements and roads.

Doug McKay, chief executive of the Auckland Super City, said Kingsland, Dominion Road and Mt Eden were last night's pinch points.

He said police shepherded people from the street back into a local Irish pub after they spilled onto the road.

While Mr McKay said safety concerns were not serious, organisers will be reviewing overcrowding issues this week.

But bar owners will find little to complain about with the extra business, with some reporting record nights.

The Hospitality Association said venues which have gone all out to attract punters are reaping the rewards, especially in the centres where big games are being held.

Chief executive Bruce Robertson said the tournament was having a positive impact on overall trade.

"Seasonally it's a great boost for the industry generally, we're certainly enjoying the extra custom,'' said Mr Robertson.

Transport bliss

While Irish supporters celebrated their team's victory well into Sunday morning, there was no repeat of the transport chaos of opening night on the way to and from Eden Park.

More than 22,000 fans used buses and trains to get to the stadium, roughly half choosing the bus, and the other half going by train.

The fan zone at Queens Wharf saw around 6500 people who stayed to watch the match, and left fairly swiftly after it.

The Fire Service dealt with four minor incidents including burning rubbish and an overheated light.

Ambulance teams handled 25 people at Eden Park, including one with a suspected heart attack.

Wellington's good behaviour

Further south, Wellington police are happy with the behaviour at last night's match, and say they're ready for any influx of Rugby World Cup 2011 visitors.

Four people were thrown out of the match between South Africa and Fiji, and one arrest was made.

Operation commander Inspector Simon Perry said the large crowd was well behaved and had a good time.

Extra police were on the beat in the city for the after match.

Christchurch fans not left out

Christchurch is far from forgotten, despite being unable to host any Rugby World Cup games.

The All Blacks are in the city for three days before returning to Auckland for their crucial pool match with France.

All Black lock Sam Whitelock said he was delighted with the hometown welcome for the team.

"To be down here and see the guys smiling, it's great to be in our home province,'' said Whitelock.

The All Blacks are attending a special Stand in Black event at Centennial Park this afternoon.

- Newstalk ZB and NZ Herald staff