Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully has confirmed a large, inflatable rugby ball will be one of the key features at Auckland's Queens Wharf during the tournament later this year.
Mr McCully, along with Auckland Mayor Len Brown, took scores of journalists on a tour of the site on Thursday.
Queens Wharf is to be the cup's entertainment hub. Along with the giant rugby ball it will feature The Cloud, a large tent-like structure made of steel and white PVC, which is still under construction.
As part of the designated Fanzone, it will screen all 48 matches live.
The Minister says the rugby ball will showcase New Zealand's culture and history to international visitors.
People will be able to walk inside the ball and watch a 10-minute audiovisual film showcasing New Zealand's scenery and heritage.