New Zealand's North v South game could be moved out of Auckland

New Zealand Rugby is considering to move the North v South game out of Eden Park following the restrictions placed in Auckland.

After going 102 days without community transmission, the New Zealand's biggest city has seen a new surge in cases which increased to 49 until Sunday has forced the government to enforce at least until 26th August along with level three restrictions.

The situation already forced the final game of Super Rugby Aotearoa between Blues and Crusaders to be played on Sunday to be called-off and now the NZR is closely monitoring the situation with Sky Stadium in Wellington being the alternative venue to host the game.

“With Auckland at Alert Level 3 until midnight on Wednesday 26 August, the squads will now assemble in Wellington to prepare for the match,” NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum told the All Blacks website.

“New Zealand Rugby is currently working through the Government’s normal exemption process to seek approval for the Auckland-based players and management to assemble in Wellington from next Monday.

“A final decision on the venue for the match will be made following the Government’s review of Covid-19 levels on Friday.”

The squad that will be named on Tuesday will now assemble in Wellington to kick-start their preparation for the encounter on 29th August.