Black Caps batsman Martin Guptill celebrates after scoring a century during the game against Bangladesh in Hamilton. Photo / Christine Cornege
Black Caps batsman Martin Guptill celebrates after scoring a century during the game against Bangladesh in Hamilton. Photo / Christine Cornege
‘Capacity crowd’ expected with lots of entertainment and, later, fireworks.
Cricket World Cup fever is beginning to build on the heels of Saturday's quarter-final game.
The Black Caps will square off against the West Indies at Wellington Regional Stadium from 2pm.
MetService is predicting fine weather for the game, with clouds increasing in the evening, northerlies and a high of 19C.
In the lead-up to Saturday's game there will be food, fun and entertainment in the capital, including a fireworks display over Wellington Harbour on the eve of the game.
Fans will also get the chance to meet the Black Caps at a signing session in Civic Square on Thursday afternoon.
The WestpacTrust Stadium in Wellington. Photo / Mark Mitchell
A Wellington City Council spokeswoman said the Cricket World Cup had seen Wellington become a "hive of activity" over the past month.
Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown said with a "capacity crowd on the cards" at the stadium, the council would also be showing Saturday's game live from its Green Fan Hub in Civic Square for the first time.
"We are very proud to be hosting the Black Caps in the Cricket World Cup 2015 quarter-final against the Windies," she said.
"Volunteers and staff are doing a brilliant job and everyone can enjoy the capital's quarter-final weekend."
Saturday's game would mark the second time Wellington had hosted a capacity crowd during the Cricket World Cup, following the Black Caps v England game a few weeks ago.
In Auckland, there won't be any special events but fans can get among the cricket action by watching the game live at the Fanzone in Britomart.
The game will be broadcast on the big screen under a blue sky, according to MetService's forecast.
The Fanzone has attracted crowds for almost all the Cricket World Cup matches it has broadcast live, particularly the Black Caps games, and this Saturday will likely be no different.
Wellington councillor Jo Coughlan said a full stadium was great news for Wellington, both for the atmosphere and the economic benefits.
The Black Caps v England game had pumped $8 million to $10 million into the city.
"So we are hoping for a similar result this weekend," she said.
The Black Caps go into Saturday's match as favourites, with the TAB paying $1.27 for the Black Caps to win as at 1.30pm yesterday. The West Indies were paying $3.50 to win.
A TAB spokeswoman said New Zealand were second favourites to win the tournament, paying $4. Australia were the favourites at $2.75, while South Africa were third favourites at $5.
