Barmy Army column on the move

They're here. After much anticipation more than 200 campervans full of Lions supporters piled off Cook Strait ferry sailings and into Wellington yesterday.

A fleet of about 35 campervans was greeted by Mayor Kerry Prendergast and Wellington Zoo staff dressed-up as lions at the Bluebridge terminal.

Many fans planned to stay in the capital overnight but were not certain where, fuelling concerns they may park-up in town.

Interislander passenger services general manager Martin Weekes said 190 campervans and 26 coaches had crossed and more were expected in coming days.

Numerous white vans around town sported flags and slogans like "IRA - Irish Rugby Army".

Neither the New Zealand Kennel Club nor Plimmerton Boating Club, which are offering campervan sites, had any bookings by yesterday afternoon.

But the Hutt Holiday Park, which is closest to town, had 50 or 60 vans booked in, acting manager Janna Cox said.

Ms Prendergast said residents may see the odd campervan parked-up, despite not normally being allowed in the city.

"The council will be working with campervan users to ensure they don't create a problem."

The Lions play Manawatu in Palmerston North tonight before the second test in Wellington on Saturday.