The rugby world cup drew to a fitting close yesterday with the All Blacks prevailing in a tense final against Les Bleus. The rugby may be over, but you just know that the celebrations are only just beginning in a nation where this sport means everything.
I don't think anyone would have expected the scoreline, which effectively consisted of three scores (taking the converted try as one). It was a truly absorbing and emotional final in which the French certainly played their part, but the plaudits ultimately go the most consistent team of the tournament, the All Blacks.
I was on the edge of my seat and with only 20 minutes to go and genuinely felt that the unspeakable might happen with the kiwis letting another World Cup slip through their fingers. I suspect I was not alone in this thought and it shows the tremendous courage and concentration of the team that they kept their cool and held on to that one point lead through to the nail-biting end.
I shed the odd tear as the medals and trophy were presented and was especially happy to see Dan Carter receive his, though my 'man of match' was the Waikato man, Stephen Donald.
So, with the tournament over, is now a good time to visit New Zealand? I'd say it was an excellent time as the buzz from this victory is going to run and run. And with our 10% discount running until the end of October, go on - join the celebrations.
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