New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has dismissed the views of an English rugby writer critical of plans to hold Rugby World Cup matches in Christchurch later this year.
Writer Peter Bills claims even if AMI Stadium can be repaired in time, the city is too unsafe because it’s impossible to guarantee there won’t be another destructive quake.
"I think he should stick to writing rugby columns and avoid becoming a seismologist," Key told reporters.
The PM said Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully would get geotechnical reports on the stadium over the weekend.
Rugby New Zealand 2011 says it is continuing to assess critical tournament facilities and services in Christchurch following severe earthquake damage to the city.
Among facilities being assessed are Stadium Christchurch itself, accommodation, training facilities, the transport network and other key infrastructure.
RNZ 2011 said in the event that a match is rescheduled at a different venue, ticket holders may elect to either exchange the ticket with RNZ 2011 for a ticket for the rescheduled match or apply for a refund.
By Ian Jarrett
