Air New Zealand and the New Zealand All Backs have teamed up to offer rugby fans a once in a lifetime opportunity. Two lucky All Black fans will have unparalleled access to a rugby match between the New Zealand All Blacks and Manu Samoa in Auckland. The lucky fans will stay with the team at the team hotel in Auckland and help with various task throughout a 48 hour period. On the day of the game the lucky fans will have sideline access to watch the entire match. The best part is that Air New Zealand will provide airfare for each winner and up to three friends or family members to join the winner in Auckland. Lastly, the winners will each receive custom special made All Black uniforms.
ProjectBlackout: The Fine Print
Two loyal fans or any age will serve as weekend apprentices for the New Zealand All Blacks. Applicants must submit an application here by June 5, 2017. Included with the written applications, the application page encourages applicants to provide photos, videos, artwork, etc. to prove their fandom! Once selected, Air New Zealand will provide airfare, from anywhere in the world, for the two winners and up to three friends. Once in Auckland finalists will serve as weekend apprentices for the New Zealand All Blacks. Responsibilities include the following per Air New Zealand’s website:
– Logistical support at the team training, including assisting to set up and carrying the team gear required for the training session, filling water bottles and setting up the team nutrition station
– A sideline view of the team’s Captain’s Run prior to the game.
– Attending a one-on-one session with All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen and members of the All Blacks team on the eve of the game.
– Assisting with setting up the coaches box, field, sideline and bench areas ahead of the team’s arrival at Eden Park on game day.
– Overseeing the game from their own spot right on the sideline.
– Attending lunch with the team on the day before the game.
– One apprentice will be required to run the ball on to the field for kick-off.
Obviously this is an incredible, once in a lifetime, opportunity for two lucky New Zealand All Black fans. The two finalists have to do a little bit of manual labor, but also get to experience a rugby match from the sidelines.
Final Thoughts
This is an absolutely incredible opportunity for several reasons. Of course you get to spend a weekend with the New Zealand All Blacks, but you also get airfare to Auckland from anywhere in the world! Once in Auckland the finalists get to stay with the team in the team hotel and get exclusive behind the scenes access with the team and coaching staff. I’m assuming finalists will be extremely loyal and dedicated All Black fans, but I’ve submitted a basic application because as the saying goes “you can’t win if you don’t play.” I’ve long wanted to visit Auckland and can’t think of a better way to make that trip a reality.
Featured Image Courtesy of Air New Zealand
