The event, in its seventh year at the Queenstown Recreation Ground, had never previously been affected by poor weather.
So, by the law of averages, it was bound to happen.
The weather held out reasonably well on Saturday, and a record first-day crowd of 5000 enjoyed the play and the festivities.
But yesterday, just after 11am, the heavens opened.
The crowd quickly dispersed, many heading to the nearest bar to watch the event on television.
But there were a few hardy souls who stuck it out, braving the elements.
Three women, Sherylee-May Smeddley, of Waimate, and Paula Symes and Christy Te Aho, both of Gore, sheltered under a small umbrella on the grass bank and sat on a borrowed couch.
Miss Symes said they were part of a group of 14 at the event on Saturday but only five attended yesterday, and two of them left for the pub when the rain arrived.
By about 3pm, the hardy trio admitted they could feel little of their extremities, but it was too cold to move.
Sevens organising committee chairman Clark Frew said with 14 days of rugby during the seven years of the tournament, rain was bound to arrive eventually.
He said the first day had been great, with a big crowd enjoying the rugby and the entertainment.
Yesterday, only about 1000 had come through the gate because of the weather.
He did not yet know what effect the smaller gate would have on the tournament's financial outcome, but did not think it would be too bad.
The playing field had held up well, although there was water lying on the outskirts.
Mr Frew said they were keen to continue next year and take up their right of renewal for another two years in 2011.
Less than 30 minutes after the end of the final game yesterday, the field was bathed in sunshine.
But by then everyone had gone home.
