End of an era - Crusaders farewell Apollo Stadium after 13 years

The Apollo Project Stadium first opened in March 2012, welcoming thousands of Crusaders fans to their new home.

Now, after 13 remarkable years, the final game will be played on Good Friday, April 3rd, for the Super Rugby Pacific Draw.

Crusaders wing Sevu Reece said the stadium served a special purpose following the earthquakes.

“It’s just a way that the whole community, the whole city, can come together. As Crusaders, we feel like we play a massive part in bringing the city together.”

“That place has been home for most of us who have played there for a number of years, and also the past players that have been and gone.”

This game holds extra meaning for Reece, as he is playing against a team from his home country, Fiji.

The Crusaders will face the Fijian Drua at 7 pm next Friday, and they are anticipating quite the game. 

Reece said the Crusaders have to get their prep right and be at their top game when playing against the Fijian Drua.

“With the Fijian Drua, you’ve got to expect anything and everything. They are a team that won’t go away; they will stick right at it from the first minute to the last whistle.”

Following the tragedy of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, Lancaster Park was one of the many iconic Christchurch venues that were permanently shut.

In November 2011, the announcement came that a new temporary stadium was being built to fill the gap and host major sporting events until something permanent was established.

Apollo Projects Stadium was constructed and given a lifespan of three to five years, a prediction that landed way off base.

This will mark the 120th Super Rugby game played at their home turf, waving goodbye to Apollo with a sold-out stadium.

Christchurch City Council confirmed structures including the grandstand will be removed from the grounds once One NZ Stadium is open.