NRL Auckland Nines

Duco Events have proved that they can deliver exceptional major events and in doing so support the strategic ambitions of both the sport’s governing body and the host city. No more clearly is this exemplified than Duco Event’s staging of the NRL Auckland Nines.

The Nines was a completely new product. On one hand this provided risk, as 
it was unproven, on the other it was globally unique. A three way partnership, led initially by Duco Events, was established – Duco Events (event promoter), Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED – the host city) and the National Rugby League (NRL).

The combination of a great event concept, in the right city, at the right time and with the right partners delivered ultimate success.

In its first year the NRL Auckland Nines exceeded all expectations:

• The event broke all KPIs in its first year and exceeded all expectations from players to sponsors to fans.
• The event sold out in year one, attracting close to 90,000 attendees across the two days at Eden Park, generating $12 million in regional exports and $9.35m in GDP (this exceeded forecasts of $3.5m in GDP).
• Close to 23,000 international and domestic visitors generating almost 70,000 bed nights.
• Resulting fan satisfaction levels of 98% declaring the event a success and 98% likely to recommend the event to others, the highest ever recorded for a major event staged in Auckland.
• Overwhelming positive feedback from the 16 participating NRL clubs across CEOs, coaches and players.

• On Fox Sports in Australia, the popularity of the Nines was second only to the Australian cricketers live from South Africa, receiving 1.1 million viewers.
• The lift in city pride by residents and ratepayers was palpable with significant positive fan feedback across social and mainstream media. Over 97% of attendees strongly agreed that Auckland was a great event host.
• Huge credit was given to event partners Duco Events, ATEED and the NRL, enhancing the reputation of these organisations.
• The first Nines event told Auckland’s story – as a major event and key travel destination. The Nines showcased Auckland as an event friendly city and has enabled Auckland to display a leadership role in New Zealand and Australia’s calendar of major sporting events.

The NRL Auckland Nines outperformed on all levels and has since established itself as an ongoing ‘Anchor Event’ in Auckland.