By Charlotte Tonkin
Rugby sevens fever has hit the capital and Wellington is ready for its annual two-day costume party.
As fans raided hire shops for that last-minute sombrero and lycra, the players paraded through the city.
The noise and colour of the Sevens’ parade of nations is just a fraction of what the 35,000-strong crowd will deliver from Westpac Stadium tomorrow and on Saturday.
Sixteen countries will compete over the two day tournament for the silverware, but the New Zealand leg of the competition has a reputation for more than just rugby.
“It’s one of the craziest parties I’ve ever been to,” says one South Africa supporter. “We love the vibe here.”
The costume hire and sales industry booms during the Sevens, where the game can become secondary to the get up.
“A lot of people have been going for Mexican wrestlers,” says co-owner of Costume Cave, Kate Iremonger.
After Halloween, this is the store’s busiest time of year. Hundreds of costumes leave the shop and most return – some a little worse for wear.
“At the moment it’s very exciting,” says Ms Iremonger.
“Next week – not so much, when all the washing comes back.”
3 News