The Sevens

Rio's comes to Wellington this February as the IRB World Sevens Series makes it's annual stop in the Capital. The carnival make-over comes in anticipation of the sport joining the Olympic roster for the first time at the Rio games in 2016. That's right, the Sevens is not just an opportunity to dress up like a naughty space pirate and party, there's actual sport going on too.

This year there are 16 teams to root for. Top contenders are, of course, New Zealand who have won 11 out of 14 seasons so far.  But hot on their cleated heels are Fiji, USA and South Africa.

This year's off-field entertainment that will include bands, djs and an as yet undisclosed headliner to open the play.

Town will be pumping too with a street parade to welcome the teams on Friday, February 5, from 12.45pm to 2pm - starting on the corner of Ballance Street and Lambton Quay ending at Civic Square. On Saturday night, Courtenay Place, Dixon, Manners and part of Tory streets will be closed to traffic until 6am on Sunday morning to allow plenty of space to party.

So bust out your sexy Spongebob or racy Level Crossing costumes and get ready to watch some sports.  Tickets to the Wellington Sevens are available now.