Opinion: Low key Lions arrival a shame

The British & Irish Lions slipped into Rotorua yesterday in what could diplomatically be described as a low key arrival.

In an area set aside for fans, a handful of people looked on as the team and management strolled through and out to the waiting bus.

With the exception of one enthusiastic autograph seeker who personally welcomed players to "New Zealand's coolest hot spot", it was a quiet affair.

The Lions were welcomed on to Aotearoa soil a couple of weeks ago with a fantastic powhiri so it's fair enough there was no full powhiri to welcome them to Rotorua.

Besides - after coming off a heartbreaking one point loss to the Highlanders the night before, the squad was probably quite happy to slide in without fuss and get settled ahead of another big challenge on the field.

But from a Rotorua point of view, I can't help but think it was a shame there wasn't some sort of official airport welcome - however brief and basic - on behalf of the city.

This is a huge event for Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty. The city is set to be buzzing over the next few days and the thousands of Lions spectators and rugby fans from around New Zealand will bring with them a massive boost to our economy.

Surely the least we could have done is greet the Lions to our city and let them know how pleased we are to have them here.

As one commenter watching the live stream of the arrival on the Rotorua Daily Post Facebook page succinctly put it: "Where's the love?"

On the positive side, with the match a sell-out the Lions are sure to get a loud Rotorua welcome when they run on to the pitch on Saturday night. And in the pubs around the city locals will no doubt share a pint or two with members of the Barmy Army over the coming days.

To the Lions players, management and all the supporters, haere mai nau mai. Welcome to Rotorua, you are going to love it.