Its all about the Brand

Tourism New Zealand is to build a giant Rugby Ball Venue in front of the Eiffel Tower during the final stages of the Rugby World Cup to showcase New Zealand tourism and trade to international audiences, Prime Minister Helen Clark announced the other day.

Rumours that the French government is planning to erect a 15m high Coq in Auckland during the 2011 World Cup have been denied by Sports Minister Trevor Mallard. And he should know ...

The total project cost for the venue is $4.6 million which is cheaper than a yacht race. If it was selling Golden Takeaways Fishburgers or had Emersons Bookbinder on tap, I’d be there in a flash, but we enjoyed the French food & wine during the Provence leg ... so make mine un Kebab Cheval & a jug of Rosé, Gaston!

Thought Japan showed a lot of spunk last night - and their first try was one for the World Cup’s highlight reel. Tremendous passing and support running. Wales expectedly beat them, but what does it mean? Nothing but a romp. And really, those new tops of theirs are downright silly. “Upmarket foppery” as Xavier Rush’s Dad would say. Next time they tour Australia they may have to travel through the Outback, standing on the roof of their bus.

Big game tonight between Ireland and France. Could decide our route further in ... or not. probably pick France to do it with form and home advantage. Or will the Irish team finally kick-off? I’ll be glued to ITV1 - but with Radio 5 Live on ... can’t bear the TV commentators.

Lu