The Ekhaya Hospitality Centre at the Rugby World Cup in Wellington, New Zealand was opened last night by the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Fikile Mbalula.
Ekhaya is a 'home away from home' hospitality program operating during the Rugby World Cup, and will feature a variety of events and activities until 9 October.
About two hundred expatriates, ex-South Africans, diplomats and interested New Zealanders attended the event. Several personnel from the Springbok management camp were present, including Coach Pieter de Villiers.
Minister Mbalula spoke much about the 'upcoming battles' the Springboks faced and used more than a few metaphors to encourage everyone to support them. 'As een wen, wen ons almal', he said to much applause.
Many of those present spoke highly of the Ekhaya Centre and voiced their intention to bring along friends along to events due to take place during the course of the World Cup. For a full list of events taking place at Ekhaya see http://www.ekhayasouthafrica.com.
On Friday the Te Papa Museum in Wellington is hosting a South Africa National Day with music and dance. The Springboks will be making an autographing appearance in the afternoon with the Ekhaya team supporting the event as well.
