BRITISH AND IRISH Lions have two trips to Eden Park as part of their three-Test series against New Zealand in 2017.
The Lions’ tour, in June and July, will feature 10 matches in total, including meeting all five of the Kiwis’ Super Rugby teams.
The first Test is at Eden Park on 24 June before a clash at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on 1 July, and the tour finishes back in Auckland a week later.
It will mark the Lions’ first tour since 2013, when they beat Australia 2-1, while it is their 12th to New Zealand. The All Blacks have won 27 Tests to the Lions’ six.
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) released its schedule this morning, announcing 20 matches over two years.
“The British and Irish Lions Tour is one of those very special events for any rugby fan and we all remember how the 2005 series captivated this country,” NZR chief executive Steve Tew said.
“The 2017 series is likely to be one of the most significant sporting events our country has hosted since Rugby World Cup 2011 and perhaps the biggest New Zealand will host for some time.
“The series will feature matches throughout New Zealand and in addition to 10 All Blacks Tests in 2016 and 2017, there’ll be enormous opportunity for the whole country to not only enjoy quality international rugby but to also share in the economic benefits that the matches present.
“More than 20,000 Lions supporters travelled to New Zealand in 2005, generating more than $135m in benefits - we’re confident the 2017 series will exceed these figures.
“Over the last few years New Zealand has shown we can successfully host some of the biggest events in international sport and provide visitors with a unique and welcoming experience.”
The All Blacks will welcome Wales in 2016 for what will be a three-Test series, while the Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup are also on their calendar.
