WELLINGTON, New Zealand — New Zealand marked the month-long countdown to the start of the Women’s World Cup by creating a full-size soccer field in the remote southern highlands of the South Island, in the shadow of the highest mountain High in New Zealand, Aoraki’s Mount Cook.
Measuring 105 meters long, 68 meters wide (114 yards by 74 yards) it was hand-built on the Tussocky plains of McKenzie Country in front of the 12,217-foot mountain on which Sir Edmond Hillary trained for his successful summit climb. of Mount Everest.
Two local girls’ teams, named Pukaki and Tekapo after the nearby pristine alpine lakes, were invited to play the first friendly match on the pitch on Tuesday, refereed by Lindsey Robinson, New Zealand’s National Soccer Referee Development Manager.
“I came here today to referee the game in the most beautiful place in the world,” Robinson said. “Apart from the impressive scenery, it was a great football match.
“I am incredibly excited that so many visitors are coming to New Zealand to enjoy the game and enjoy this beautiful part of the world.”
Tourism New Zealand worked with local indigenous Maori and the Department of Conservation to ensure the project was implemented in a way that respected the mana whenua (the rights of New Zealand’s indigenous people) and had no lasting impact on the land.
Watch the second part of the second episode of Mi Mundialista Favorita, the bilingual FIFA Women’s World Cup podcast produced by NBC and Telemundo.
The pitch was created over six weeks, adhering to strict environmental and sustainability principles with a ‘tread lightly’ philosophy ensuring the land can be returned to its natural state.
The match between Pukaki and Tekapo ended in a 1-1 draw.
Eight-year-old Immy Ivey was surprised to be able to play under Aoraki Mount Cook.
“It’s great to play soccer in the mountains because when you score a goal, instead of just having grass, you can see the big mountains, which is nice for a change,” Ivey said.
New Zealand and Australia are hosting the Women’s World Cup, which begins on July 20 and features 32 teams. The final will take place in Sydney on August 20.
Telemundo is the official home of the Women’s World Cup and all matches will be broadcast in Spanish on Telemundo, Universo and streaming on Peacock.
