Streakers put on notice ahead of city's blockbusting weekend

Julian Savea.

Wellington is set to welcome the most anticipated rugby showdown of the year in magnificent style - with African drummers, a parade and live music throughout the weekend.

The council has organised a fanzone in Civic Square to mark the All Blacks' game with the Springboks tomorrow. The entertainment will include African drummers, circus performers, a Kiwi covers band and a kapa haka cultural group. Sports turf is being installed for anyone game enough to show off their footy skills, while youngsters will be able to get their faces painted.

Food vendors will also be on hand and a parade - led by the traditional drummers - to Westpac Stadium will lead fans to the match.

Tickets to the game sold out this week, with over 36,000 spectators expected at the game. Extra temporary seating has been installed to cope with the crowd.

Westpac Stadium chief executive Shane Harmon said there was excitement in the air.

"The last time Springboks played here, four years ago, we had 30,000. It's really healthy to see test matches selling out across the country and it's obviously the big event in the sporting calendar."

As part of preparations, more than 30 security staff will be patrolling the perimeter and six dedicated staff will watch for pitch invaders. Although the security measures are similar to those at other All Blacks games, there is increased awareness following last weekend's test test in Napier, when a female streaker ran on to the field.

"The players' safety, for us, is paramount and we'll do whatever it takes to make sure that's the case. There are no guarantees, unfortunately. It only takes one idiot," Mr Harmon said.

He called on policy-makers for a stronger deterrent in the form of legislation that could result in anyone who ran on to the field being given a $5000 fine. "They're putting themselves in danger and if somebody invades the field of play, we will automatically assume the players are in danger as well."

Game on

Kick off: 7.30pm, tomorrow
36,000 spectators
35 security staff plus
6-man pitch invasion squad
Fans: A Fanzone at Civic Square will run from 12pm-5.30pm, featuring activities and entertainment, plus a walking parade for fans going to the game.