THE BEAUTIFUL GAME IN AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND: TREADING LIGHTLY AND KICKING OFF THE FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 2023
In an extraordinary prelude to the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™, Tourism New Zealand orchestrated a remarkable PR campaign, blending the beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand with the passion for football. Embarking on a sustainable venture, a full-sized professional football pitch emerged in the remote Southern Alps, precisely crafted against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Aoraki, Mount Cook, the nation's tallest peak.
This 105-meter by 68-meter pitch, meticulously handcrafted over six weeks, adheres to stringent environmental and sustainability principles, epitomizing the ethos of 'tread lightly.' The project, in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and mana whenua (indigenous Māori people of the land), reflects an unwavering commitment to respecting the land and its cultural significance.
To unveil this football haven, two local girls' teams, Pukaki and Tekapo, named after nearby alpine lakes, engaged in an honorary match. With Football Ferns Katie Bowen and Emma Rolston guiding the young players, the game celebrated the intersection of sports, culture, and environmental consciousness.
As Aotearoa New Zealand eagerly co-hosts the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ with Australia, the world awaits a spectacle of not only top-tier football but also an immersive experience in a land defined by manaakitanga – respect, generosity, and care for others. With a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy and showcasing its hospitable people and remarkable landscapes, Aotearoa New Zealand stands ready to welcome nearly two billion viewers and thousands of international visitors to a tournament that promises to be as extraordinary as the pitch itself.
To learn more about this campaign, get in touch with Tourism New Zealand’s PR team.
Get in Touch
