June Newsletter

Wellington showcase draws praise

After months of planning, the ballots were finally drawn for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at a red-carpet event at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum. Around 250 delegates enjoyed the festivities, soaking up music and dance in an artistic Wellington showcase.

The delegation entered the auditorium to the eerily beautiful sound of the putara, a traditional Maori conch shell trumpet, and after enjoying the song and dance, they got down to the serious business of finding out who plays who and when.

Performances on the night included; Elizabeth Marvelly, an 18-year-old of rare talent being hailed as the new singing sensation in the mould of Hayley Westenra; Whitireia Performing Arts, a professional cultural group who perform internationally; Lochiel Marching Team, New Zealand’s top marching team; Stilt walkers and a Wearable Arts display.

See photos of this stunning event below.


Stilt walkers entertain draw attendees outside Te Papa	Distinguished guests walk down the red carpet

Guests meet and greet in the museum's reception area	Delegates enter the auditorium to the eerily beautiful sound of the putara, a traditional Maori conch shell trumpet

Elizabeth Marvelly entertains during the draw ceremony	Whitireia Performing Arts cultural group performs on stage

Ballots are drawn for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup	New Zealand Governor-General Anand Satyanand

New Zealand coach Paul Temple (left), Local Organising Committee CEO Chris Simpson (middle) and Chuck Blazer, Chairman of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Committee, speak at a press conference after the draw	New Zealand captain Bri Fisher talks to media during the press conference

Guests are given a traditional Maori welcome into the Marae	The evening concludes with a formal banquet in the Marae

For all the latest updates on the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup visit