McLean Park Latham Street Napier South, will certainly be one of the prettiest of the stadiums in use for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The stadium has just had a makeover and new stand the Lowe Stand, giving it a seated capacity of around 18,000 and 20,000 plus with standing. None of the seating is high so all attending should get a good view of proceedings. The new stand also houses some 22 hospitality boxes and there are two function rooms overlooking the ground. The original stand looks as if it will hold the press.
The stadium is a short walk from the popular Motel area on Marine Parade which is on the South side of Napier, probably a good thing as one problem we foresee is a lack of car parking near the ground. There is a car park at the main entrance to the ground but that looks to have capacity for perhaps 200 cars. The stadium entrances are also on Morris Street, but without parking except in the street. There is a further sports park nearby, Nelson Park and it is possible that this area will be able to take a few hundred cars. If you are flying in then the airport is North at Westshore and a good taxi ride.
Whilst we were in the area having a look we got the chance to go into the main buildings and as well as the rugby fields the venue houses 4 basketball courts. All in all a lovely venue which we feel sure fans will enjoy. Just look out they may not change the existing rules during the World Cup which forbid alcohol in the grounds.
Napier is in Hawkes Bay so look out for the local wines whilst you are there also some stunning scenery close by and big beaches with opportunities to surf.