The New Zealand government is expected to make a recommendation to the IRB that Christchurch will not be used as a World Cup venue.
New Zealand government expected to recommend move away from Christchurch
The New Zealand government is expected to make a recommendation to the International Rugby Board later this week that earthquake-hit Christchurch will not be used as a venue for the World Cup.
Government officials are currently waiting on a final engineering report from AMI Stadium managers Vbase. The pitch and stadium were both damaged by the earthquake, which hit on February 22 and measured 6.3 on the Richter Scale.
The IRB will make the final decision after receiving the assessment, which is expected "imminently" and will detail whether the repairs can be completed in time for the tournament, which starts on September 9.
Among those awaiting word are the Rugby Football Union. England had been scheduled to play two pool matches against Argentina and Georgia at the venue, with Scotland also playing the Pumas.
Christchurch had been allocated seven fixtures in all, including two of the four quarter-finals.
Alternative
It is thought unlikely that Christchurch will be in a position to act as a host city and it is further understood that the RFU - who would need to explore new training facilities and accommodation options - are also working on that basis.
England already have pool matches in Dunedin and Auckland while Wellington's 'Cake Tin' stadium could also be considered as an alternative venue.
World Cup organisers have insisted from the outset that all matches will be played in New Zealand.
In addition to the stadium's suitability, the New Zealand government and World Cup organisers must also consider the damaged infrastructure in Christchurch.
The Grand Chancellor hotel is one of up to 500 buildings that will have to pulled down following the earthquake, which claimed at least 166 lives.
A number of other hotels have also reported damage, including the Crowne Plaza where England planned to base themselves for the majority of the tournament.
