The French rugby team might have snubbed Hamilton, but the All Blacks were full of praise for the city before tonight's test against 'Les Bleus'.
France have never played a test match in Hamilton and more than 25,000 fans are expected to fill the stands.
Last week, they caused a stir with their decision to go to Auckland after the Wellington test, staying there before the series finale against the All Blacks down State Highway 1.
The All Blacks have been in the city all week though, training on local fields and enjoying the city.
Coach Scott Robertson said it was obvious they were in "rugby country".
"You walk down the street, everyone's so passionate," he said. "They love this team, so it's great to be here."
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson loves being back in 'The Tron'. Photo: Kerry Marshall/www.photosport.nz
Midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown offered a local menu plan for fans who wanted to "eat like an All Black".
"Go to Hamilton East, go over to Made, Reggie's Pizza - you can't beat it," he said. "Get a gelato on the way out, you'll be happy."
Lienert-Brown plays for the local Chiefs Super Rugby team and said his usual order was a Classic Margherita.
Anton Lienert-Brown dispensed dining advice for visitors to Hamilton. Photo: Brett Phibbs/www.photosport.nz
Fullback Ruben Love wasn't so familiar with the city, but had warm memories of the wider region.
"I was here in 2022 for the Māori All Blacks and we went out to Ngāruawāhia," he said. "I think it's just out of Hamilton and we went to the pa there [Tūrangawaewae Marae] to visit the Kīngitanga.
"That was pretty special, I'll never forget that."
FMG Stadium Waikato director Ben Slatter said ticketholders should aim to arrive early.
"With a soldout crowd expected, arriving early is essential - you won't want to miss the haka or kickoff."
Mayor Paula Southgate said the city was thrilled to host the game.
"It's a truly historic moment," she said. "Whether you're at the meet and greet, in the stands or watching from home, it's going to be an unforgettable weekend."
Local hotels, restaurants and retailers were bracing for a weekend of record foot traffic.
"Big games like this bring incredible energy and major economic impact," Southgate said. "Last time the All Blacks played here, we saw more than 8500 bed nights and $1.7 million in tourism spend - a huge boost for our local businesses and economy."
Tonight's clash marks the final of the three New Zealand tests, with the All Blacks already clinching the series with victory in the first two.
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