12 years after leaving with their tails between their legs, the British and Irish Lions have touched down for their 13th tour of New Zealand.
The 2005 tour was labelled the worst ever Lions party, suffering comprehensive defeats in all three tests and descending into off field tensions within the camp.
The Lions squad members and officials were given an official welcome this morning after arriving on New Zealand soil.
A number of Lions fans were waiting for their team to arrive at Auckland Airport.
The tourists open their 10‑match tour on Saturday night against the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians in Whangarei.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew earlier said a lot hard work has gone into setting up the tour.
The Lions last won a test against the All Blacks in 1993 before being swept aside 3‑0 in the last tour. They face the All Blacks in the first test on June 24th.
Meanwhile, the Blues will play the Reds at 7.35pm this Friday in the Super Rugby.
Source: NZ Herald
