Christchurch to lose Rugby world cup games.

The Rugby world cup games that were to be played in Christchurch have been cancelled due to the damage at AMI Stadium following last month's earthquake.

AMI Stadium was supposed to be hosting five group matches and two quarterfinals during the World Cup which runs through September and October, However Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully announced this afternoon that all games will have to be moved to other venues around the country.

Auckland will now host the two quarter final matches while as many of the pool matches as possible will be kept in the South Island, All existing ticket holders will be offered refunds or tickets to the reallocated matches.

The Mayor of Christchurch Bob Parker said the decision would be a further blow for a city still reeling from the February 22 earthquake, but he accepted it had been made after long consideration and with the best interests of the Rugby World Cup in mind for players and spectators.

Although complete replacement of the turf at AMI Stadium is required, there were also concerns about the amount of accommodation available for those travelling to see the Christchurch games.
Australia, England and Argentina were all set to play twice at AMI Stadium while the fourth quarterfinal would mostly feature the All Blacks if they finished top of Group A.

Matches scheduled for Christchurch:
Saturday September 10 - Argentina v England
Sunday September 11 - Australia v Italy
Sunday September 18 - England v Georgia
Sunday September 25 - Argentina v Scotland
Sunday October 1 - Australia v Russia
As many as possible will remain in South Island

Saturday October 8 - Quarterfinal 2
Sunday October 9 - Quarterfinal 4

Are to be moved to Auckland