A strategy is being developed for the Waitaki district to cash in on the thousands of visitors to New Zealand for next year's Rugby World Cup.
Members of the public are also being asked by Tourism Waitaki for any ideas they might have for events which would encourage rugby fans to visit the district and stay.
Already, the North Otago Rugby Union has plans for a Golden Oldies rugby tournament at Whitestone Contracting Stadium from September 30 to October 2, including provision for a campervan park at Centennial Park and a rock concert.
The development of a strategy is being carried out by a Rugby World Cup co-ordinating committee, made up of representatives from the rugby union, Tourism Waitaki and the Waitaki District Council.
Tourism Waitaki general manager Annabel Gudsell said the sub-committee earlier this month met about 60 people from the business community to discuss ideas and start the development of a strategy.
The workshop meeting came up with about 40 ideas that ranged from local ambassadors assisting tourists during the tournament to having flexible shop opening hours and a "centralised bed bank".
"The objective of the workshop was to provide an overview of the event and gather valuable input from the business community so the community can work together to maximise opportunities from this major international event," she said.
It was emphasised the event was more than just about rugby - it was about hosting visitors, creating a festival atmosphere and a legacy.
Ms Gudsell launched the "Spin It Wide" brand chosen by the southern region, first to get games south of the Waitaki River, then to help local communities keep visitors in the area for longer.
Consultation on ideas for the strategy is due to finish tomorrow.
