Auckland's Quay St will be closed to traffic all weekend, starting midday today, and for every weekend for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup.
The move comes after Friday night's chaos in downtown Auckland, where up to 200,000 people flocked to watch the tournament's opening.
Captain Cook Wharf, next to the existing Queen's Wharf fan zone, has also been made available to cater for fans, should it get too crowded.
Big screens and public amenities have been installed on the wharf but Auckland Council's application for a liquor licence could not be granted in time for the weekend, a spokesman told the New Zealand Herald.
Quay St will be closed between Britomart Place and Lower Hobson Street from midday while feeder streets - Lower Albert, Lower Hobson, Tyler St, Gore St and Commerce St (between Customs St and Quay St) - will also be closed or have managed access.
There will be managed access for businesses and residents during this period.