The Start Of The NZI Sevens

Crowds lined the streets of the central city today as thousands of Wellingtonians and rugby fans from farther afield turned out in force for the annual NZI Sevens parade in anticipation of, what has become, one of the biggest events of the capital's calendar.

An annual event played as part of the IRB Sevens World Season for international rugby sevens – a seven-a-side version of rugby – the NZI Wellington Sevens is this year the third on the IRB Sevens World Series circuit and will be played at Westpac Stadium this weekend.

Attracting over 30,000 spectators each year, 'Sevens' is Wellington's largest sporting event – and known for its festive party atmosphere – last year won by England, who beat New Zealand 19-17.

This year's parade was led by Wellington samba band Batucada and featured the tournament's 16 competing teams – including Argentina, Tonga, Samoa, the US, Wales, Scotland and New Zealand.

A quick tally in my office showed that most of my staff are backing the New Zealand team to win, one is predicting a victory for Samoa, and two are in support of England winning! Based on the results from the last 10 years New Zealand are the sure favourites with four wins to both Samoa’s and England’s one-time victories. I am backing the Scotland team who has never won the competition but of course, there is always a first time for everything!

No doubt the city will be lit up this weekend as we are treated to an array of costumes and festivities. I wish the Scottish team all the best of luck and of course the Kiwis too!