Matchday Logistics for Springboks vs All Blacks: What Fans Need to Know
Supporters are encouraged to plan ahead as significant congestion is anticipated for the Springboks’ crucial home test against New Zealand.
The Full Story
The South African public are looking forward to seeing the Springboks’ response in Cape Town, after the Boks went down 16-33 to New Zealand in the opening game at Ellis Park. The sold-out clash at DHL Stadium kicks off at 17:10 on Saturday, 29 August, with 62 000 spectators expected. The City of Cape Town is warning Capetonians to plan ahead, with significant congestion expected around the CBD, Green Point and the stadium precinct.
A comprehensive transport plan will be in place, with public transport strongly encouraged for supporters heading to the match. Are you heading to Cape Town’s DHL Stadium for the second test match of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry? Read on for all your matchday logistics… Springbok fans urged to plan their journeys The MyCiTi shuttle service will operate from five locations from 11:30.
These are Civic Centre, Thibault Square, the CTICC, UCT and Bellville Velodrome. The service will run on a dedicated, coned-off bus lane. This means Springbok and All Black supporters can avoid much of the traffic congestion on the roads.
Stadium gates open at 12:00, giving fans plenty of time to arrive before kick-off. After the final whistle, the last return MyCiti shuttle from the stadium will leave at 22:30. Parking around DHL Stadium is limited, but fans can use several options in the CBD and at UCT upper campus before taking a shuttle or the FanWalk to Green Point.
This includes 475 free parking bays at Civic Centre for ticketed rugby fans. The bays will be available from 11:00 on a first-come, first-served basis. Meanwhile, paid parking is available at the CTICC, Ryk Tulbagh Square, Picbel Parkade, Plein Park, Jack Craig Street and Harbour Arch.
“We encourage supporters to plan their journeys early, make use of the available shuttle services where possible, and arrive with plenty of time to spare,” said JP Smith, the City’s Mayco Member for Safety and Security. Fans using e-hailing services will also have a dedicated facility at P14 on Green Point Main Road, between York Road and Wigtown Road. Extra Metrorail trains added for Cape Town Test For supporters travelling by rail, PRASA Western Cape will operate additional Metrorail services on Saturday.
The extra trains are intended to provide an alternative to private transport while helping reduce pressure on Cape Town’s roads. Rail can also move large numbers of spectators efficiently, making it particularly useful for a match expected to draw a capacity crowd. A more detailed train timetable will be published in due course.
NOTE: Metrorail does not run directly to DHL Stadium. Fans travelling by train will need to make their way to Cape Town Station before connecting with MyCiTi services, or taking the Fanwalk, to reach the stadium. PRASA has urged Springbok and All Black supporters to arrive at their departure stations early and purchase return tickets before travelling. “This will reduce queues and make for a smoother journey,” the agency said.
Road closures and interruptions Meanwhile, motorists should expect road closures and restrictions around the stadium and surrounding areas. These will be in place from 06:00 to 22:30 on Saturday. Residents and motorists are advised to expect increased traffic volumes, temporary road closures, and restrictions in and around the CBD, Green Point and the stadium precinct. With thousands of fans converging on Cape Town’s DHL Stadium for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, arriving early could be the difference between settling into your seat and getting caught in the matchday crush.
Why It Matters
Well-coordinated logistics are crucial to ensure a smooth experience for fans attending the high-stakes match between the Springboks and All Blacks. With major transportation initiatives, fans can arrive comfortably and enjoy the atmosphere without the stress of last-minute planning.
What's Next
Fans should stay tuned for further updates on additional transport options and match information to enhance their game-day experience. Expect announcements about potential train schedules as match day approaches, which will be crucial for managing the large crowds expected.