To host All Blacks

winning of content business.

‘‘If New Zealand Rugby want to come and talk to us about an event we’ll have open doors.

‘‘We’re looking for everything we can get.’’

Hawkins’ and Davies’ comments set the scene for what is likely to be a highly competitive process up and down the country for securing prime sporting events.

Dunedin won the race to host the first game of Super Rugby Aotearoa against the Chiefs on Saturday, albeit with a slice of luck, but there will be intense competition for a second Bledisloe test and the North v South game.

Dunedin last hosted a Bledisloe Cup fixture in 2017, but with Eden Park also certain to be in the running the North v South game could be more likely.

That possible fixture has already generated a huge amount of interest, with Crusaders coach Scott Robertson set to take the coaching reins of the South side, while All Black Sam Whitelock is just one player who has spoken positively about the game.

Davies said that landing the fixtures would provide an economic boost not just for the venue but for the whole city.

‘‘If there is anything we’ve learnt during this period it’s having an open mind,’’ he said.

‘‘We’re ready for any change . . . we’ll just keep talking to ur content providers, the NZRU, the promoters.

‘‘We see ourselves as a key driver for social and economic recovery for the city.

‘‘It’s dramatic. Not only here but the people who spread up to the Octagon afterwards to have a drink. ‘‘Pre-game it’s coffee and a meal. ‘‘The economic impact is significant.’’