Sevens extravaganza looms

Julie Turner from Events and Venues Rotorua at Rotorua's International Stadium. Photo / Stephen Parker

Top sevens players on the field, kids' entertainment off the field and the lure of All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams - there's something for everyone at this weekend's Bayleys National Sevens.

The country's top sevens tournament is back in Rotorua for a third year with plenty on offer to complement the on-field action.

Event organiser Allison Stewart said the event would give locals something different to do, and they were expecting crowds of supporters from around the country. There are 26 teams competing.

"People will get to see some of New Zealand's top provincial players, as well as some exciting young players."

Games are played from 10am both days and people would get the chance to see a full day of sevens action.

"It's such a fast game. Each game is 15 minutes and it changes pretty quickly."

Some people liked to choose a team to support and follow them around, others just liked to find a spot and kick back and enjoy the action playing out in front of them, she said.

Mrs Stewart said because it was general admission people could sit wherever they wanted and move around freely once they were in.

The whanau zone would have plenty of action to keep the kids entertained, including bouncy castles, slides and outdoor activities.

"There's lots of room. We get a lot of families and kids because it's school holidays. It's quite nice to spend some family time together."

As part of the weekend, Williams will join ACC to talk about preparing for games and how to prevent injury.

ACC's injury prevention portfolio manager for sport, Isaac Carlson, said Williams would be taking part in a "skills and drills" session with the ball boys and girls at 2pm tomorrow, followed by a crowd walkaround.

On Sunday he will be at the ACC tent from 11.30am for about 45 minutes signing autographs and for people to get snaps.