Ticket prices for Rugby World Cup released

Organisers of the 2011 World Cup released ticket pricing that they hoped would counter the rising costs of hosting the event and have local families flocking to stadiums.

Tickets, which go on sale in April, will start at $15 for children and $30 for adults for many pool matches, with the final at Eden Park in Auckland to cost between $390 to $1250. Visit RWC ticketing and pricing structure please visit here

"We believe the ticketing policy will result in each match being played in front of full venues, showcasing New Zealand's love of rugby and its place as a host of major international events," tournament chief executive Martin Snedden said in a statement.

"Although tickets for knockouts and major pool matches are expensive by New Zealand standards, we have been able to price two-thirds of matches at or below existing test match prices."

Organisers will also allow buyers to pay for their tickets in instalments to lure them to more expensive games at the knockout stages.

"We're conscious that ticket prices for some matches will be well beyond what Kiwis are used to paying so we are introducing a payment plan that will allow those who pay for their tickets on a credit or debit card to be able to do so in instalments," Snedden said.

With the International Rugby Board (IRB) retaining all commercially generated income as well as taking a $150 million hosting fee, New Zealand must rely largely on ticket sales to cover the cost of hosting the tournament.

Although ticket revenue has been projected at $280 million, organisers expect to post a $30 million operating loss.

Source: TVNZ