The memberships cover three games at the old Apollo Projects Stadium and 4 at the new One NZ Stadium (Te Kaha). Photo: Christchurch City Council
Crusaders fans are questioning their loyalty after prices for the next season at the new stadium revealed a 40 percent increase.
The memberships cover three games at the old Apollo Projects Stadium and 4 at the new One NZ Stadium (Te Kaha).
But some fans say it is no longer affordable, with platinum memberships going from $380 to $575.
One supporter said their family membership was tripling - $1400, up from $550.
A membership which guarantees reserved seating was going up from $140 to $450.
"Was always going to be an increase, but wasn't expecting that much given nearly half the season is at Apollo Stadium," one fan said on Facebook.
Fan Dick Tayler told Midday Report some fans will balk at the price hikes and spend money on a bigger TV to watch games at homes instead, saying live games were now only for "corporates" instead of "Joe Bloggs".
"Which is sad because this is genuinely what's happening with sport, and we never want it to happen."
Some fans were sanguine, however.
"We are fortunate to have the best rugby team in the world," one wrote on Facebook. "They have the best set up and academy out there, it doesn't come cheap. Yes it's sad when people can't afford to go, I get that, but if we want class we have to pay for it, that's the sad reality of life."
Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge told local paper The Press there were a range of price points, including a silver membership which would work out to $26 a game.
He justified the new pricing by comparing the new One NZ Stadium to a Ferrari and the old venue to a Ford Cortina.
"You're not driving the same vehicle. The experience will be unrecognisable. This is the best venue in the southern hemisphere."
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