A short stint at the 7s

Approaching the Stadium just before midday.

The Rotary Club of Tawa plays a part at the Rugby Sevens at Westpac Stadium each February. Members are involved in "liquor management" - basically keeping an eye on would-be purchasers to ensure that no-one under 18 tries to buy alcohol at one of the stadium's many liquor outlets, and also that no more is served to those who have obviously had too much! It's a good fundraising exercise for Tawa's Rotary Club, along with giving the 35 or so Rotarians who assisted on both days the opportunity to see the amazing array of outfits worn by those taking part in the festivities.

Because they're there to do a job in the concourse, those assisting get to see very little of the rugby apart from glimpses on the overhead TV sets. However much of the "action" actually takes in the concourse itself, with hordes of (mostly) youngsters prancing around and showing off the variety of costumes which they've gone to the trouble of decking themselves out in (if that makes sense!).

These photos were taken between 1 and 5pm on the Friday. Crowd numbers only really started picking up mid-afternoon. By evening-time when the party was really starting to get into full swing (so to speak), many of those who helped with the early shift were happy to be back in Tawa watching the action in the comfort and sobriety of their own lounges!

Empty Stadium just before 12.28pm.

[Click on pics to enlarge].

	Tongan Ninjas actively supporting their team.
	Fascinating combination of characters.
	This decapitated individual passed by on more than one occasion.   He was constantly stopped for photos. Don't know who claimed the   crown for best outfit, but he had to have been a top contender.
	These guys dressed as railway crossings, with flashing lights and   ringing bells (sounding just like the real thing), were another top   contender. The bells were turned off from time to time, otherwise   they would have driven the wearers, and others nearby, nuts.
	Tony Heyward, current Tawa Rotary president, in a posed shot at   the servery he was monitoring. In reality his role had him milling   around in front of the counter, not behind it.
	Partly filled stadium at 3.25pm.
	Argentina in action against Papua New Guinea at 3.44pm.
	"Lady Hot Rods", cheerleaders for the English team.
	Taking part in a ball-kicking challenge inside the concourse.
	More interesting outfits at the bar.
	Even more interesting outfits. If this one appears slight fuzzy,   it may be that you've indulged a little too much, in which case   we might just have to call it a day. See you next time.