Dunedin is preparing to welcome thousands of rugby fans this weekend with a city-wide celebration ahead of the All-Blacks v France Test Match on Saturday, 5 July.

To mark the occasion, the Dunedin City Council (DCC) is hosting a range of events to build the atmosphere in the lead-up to the match start including an R18+ Kick-Off Zone in the Octagon and family-friendly performances and activities along George Street.

The game will be the first in a three match test series and the only South Island match for the All Blacks this year with 30,000 fans expected to pack out Forsyth Barr Stadium.

Dunedin Destination Manager Sian Sutton expects Otepoti to come alive with festivities in anticipation of this blockbuster showdown between these internationally ranked sides under the Forsyth Barr roof.

"We're looking forward to showcasing the city and creating a festive atmosphere alongside the stadium."

All Blacks Test matches have historically contributed millions to the local economy.

"Our tourism operators, and hospitality and retail outlets are excited to host the huge influx of visitors, and welcome the boost to the local economy," Ms Sutton says.

To celebrate, the Octagon will be transformed into the ultimate pre-match zone buzzing with celebrations. The heart of the city will host a special fan Kick-Off Zone with live music, food trucks, and a pop-up bar under a large marquee with heating, creating an electric atmosphere for lovers of rugby aged 18 and above.

Brew Bar owner and Kick-Off Zone host Mark Fraser is excited to host rugby lovers from New Zealand and beyond for this epic game.

"As a hospitality business owner, events like this are important for us. We want to contribute to making sure customers who come to Dunedin for any event leave wanting to come back for more Southern hospitality," Mr Fraser says.

For a more family-friendly option, on Friday, 4 July, fans can meet the All Blacks at a public signing event in the Wall Street Mall from 10.15am to 11.30am. Fans will have the opportunity to meet some of the 2025 All Blacks squad and interact with their heroes.

On match day, supporters can soak up the city's atmosphere and festivities by walking to the stadium on a new walking route with pop-up performances and surprises along the way.

Follow George Street from the Octagon, and then turn right along Albany Street, and then left along Anzac Avenue leading directly to the stadium to catch all the fun.

There will also be a group Walking Bus so you can join others and march to the beat of the bagpipes, and marvel at the entertainment on display all the way to the stadium.

There will also be a range of free or discounted transport options to suit different needs and ensure everyone gets to the game safely. Those travelling from further afar can catch the bus, or train, or even the ferry to get to the stadium. The DCC is providing free bus rides from the Octagon, as well as the popular Park-N-Ride options from Victoria and Moana Rua Roads in South Dunedin, and the Wingatui Racecourse in Mosgiel.

Fans can also travel to the game for free on the Otago Regional Council's Orbus bus service using the four routes that run near the stadium.

Those travelling on routes 14, 63, 37 and the Ridge Runner to attend the rugby match can present their tickets to the bus driver to get free travel two hours before and one hour after the match.