Otago first five Hayden Parker signs autographs for fans at this afternoon's Ranfurly Shield ceremony at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin. Photo Craig Baxter
More than 1000 fans, including many young children, attended this afternoon's special ceremony at Forsyth Barr Stadium to welcome the Ranfurly Shield to its new home.
They patiently queued for photographs with the Shield, and for autographs and photos with players.
Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull told the crowd he was 7 when Otago last won the Shield, 56 years ago. He urged fans to savour the moment.
Murray McKenzie, of Palmerston, said the win was just what Otago rugby needed to get out of the doldrums. It was also a necessary lift for the whole province, he said.
