Samoa's maiden hosting of a Super Rugby game will be remembered more for the steep ticket prices and empty seats than the Blues' 34‑29 win over the Reds last night.
Apia Park appeared half full at best for its first significant match under lights after locals were asked to fork out up to $250 NZD to attend the historic fixture.
Tickets ranged from $NZ20 to $250, and the minimum wage in Samoa is around $NZ1.30 per‑hour.
Reports from Apia said the Blues set ticket prices as it was their home match after offsetting costs such as accommodation for both teams and equipment for Sky Television coverage.
Ticket costs were similar to the All Blacks test against Samoa in 2015 at the same small venue, which holds a crowd of around 8000.
Found out prices
— Mark Stafford (@stafnz) June 2, 2017
$250 seated
$60 to stand on bank
Min wage in Samoa $1.70/hr
Great to take NZ game to Samoa. But not the NZ prices #BLUvRED https://t.co/m19mnwRqis
Meanwhile, rookie Blues first‑five Stephen Perofeta scored a crucial try and kicked two conversions in his debut after replacing Piers Francis in the second half to hand Tana Umaga's men the win.
In today’s matches, the Crusaders will play the Highlanders at 2.35pm, the Chiefs will face the Waratahs at 5.05pm, the Brumbies will play the Rebels at 9.45pm while the Hurricanes will take on the Force at 11.55pm.
Source: Stuff.co
