Rugby 2011

Auckland police say quarter-final match went smoothly

23:06 pm on 8 October 2011

Police say Saturday night's quarter final Rugby World Cup match in Auckland went relatively smoothly, despite evictions from Eden Park.

Inspector Gary Allcock says 16 people were evicted from Eden Park for disorderly behaviour but no arrests were made.

He says four people were arrested in South Auckland but generallly the fanzones have been well-behaved.

The Auckland Council's events agency says the Queens Wharf fanzone on the waterfront almost reached full capacity but there was still room in other fan zones.

Auckland is hosting two Rugby World Cup quarter final matches this weekend.

France beat England 19-12 at Eden Park on Saturday and will play a semi-finals match against Wales next weekend, while the All Blacks take on Argentina on Sunday.

Extra fan zones are in place, including a new zone at Wynyard Quarter on the waterfront and local fan zones in Albany, Henderson and Mangere.

Auckland Council's events agency says the fan zone at Queens Wharf has been extended to include Captain Cook Wharf.

The Transport Agency expects heavy traffic on the motorways as tens of thousands of people make their way to Eden Park or fan zones to watch the games.

It says tow trucks will be parked near the Harbour Bridge to respond quickly to any vehicle breakdowns and electronic message boards will keep drivers informed of traffic conditions.

The agency is urging people to leave early to get to their destination on time and to use public transport where possible.