New Zealand sees price spike before Rugby World Cup 2011
Ticket sales for the Rugby World Cup 2011 have moved past the million mark within a week’s time of opening for sale but according to the chief of International Rugby Board (IRB), Mike Miller, the major concern is the increase in accommodation rates charged
by businesses in New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup in September.
Miller, who himself is flying in from Dublin, is disappointed with the mal-practices of New Zealanders who are imposing high rates of accommodation from visitors. Reports have revealed that one of the motels in Auckland is asking for ten times its original
rates.
He has even warned New Zealanders against this practice which may anger visitors and will ruin New Zealand’s reputation. According to him, if the situation prevails, it is going to be the last World Cup hosted by New Zealand ever.
While explaining the mess created by small operators charging tourists, Miller added, “If they have a great time and feel they were getting decent value, they'll come back again. If they don't, they won't.”
Speaking about the myopic view of New Zealanders who are trying to make money out of every opportunity available, Miller said, “It's not great for the image of the country and it's not really good for their business going forward either.”
The total number of visitors is expected to be around 85000. The hordes will be flocking to New Zealand for the World Cup in September and if such practices are not stopped this may affect New Zealand’s reputation in the future.
Miller commented about the self created money making opportunities and stated, “Some have thought we can make a bit of a killing here and not worry about what's in the future.”
IRB World Cup board is also coordinating with the Government to take notice of such occurrences but it may be out of the Kiwi organizers hands. The only solution it seems is that business owner’s who are engaged in such activity realise that it will not
benefit them in the long run and stop.
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