S.A. rugby tour in demand

Press, 2 March 1984, Page 1

S.A. rugby tour in demand

PA Wellington Keen rugby followers are making clear their intentions about the All Blacks touring South Africa next year. However, while three travel agents reported “heavy” to “phenomenal” interest in tours being planned to follow the team, the same cannot be said for support for visits to Los Angeles for the Olympic Games this year. One agent said that the interest factor for the Olympics was nothing like

that in previous years, while the possibilities for a rugby tour of the republic were attracting a high following. The main stumbling block for the rugby tour was the lack of a firm itinerary for the team on which travel people could base their package tours. Most travel agents appear to be banking on a team itinerary of about 16 matches including three tests, similar to the itinerary given the 1981 Springboks for their tour of New Zealand. Mr Cecil Blazey, chair-

man of the New Zealand Rugby Union, said that his union had “not even discussed the tour” to South Africa. The trip was on the International Rugby Board’s schedule, but in line with normal procedures arrangements would not be worked on or announced until much nearer the time. A Sport Tours (Auckland) spokesman, Mr Kel Munro, said that his company had 402 individual registrations from people seeking places on a supporters’ tour. In addition, four groups of 30

people would also be catered for. “The interest we have experienced has been phenomenal and we are confident of taking bookings for about 600 people,” he said. “In 1976, when the All Blacks last toured South Africa, about 2500 supporters travelled, but next year I would predict that number will be doubled.” Travel agents in Wellington and Palmerston North reported similar interest, but not as much in the Olympic Games.