Game Day Guide: Springboks vs Wallabies

It's the first time in more than a decade that the Wallabies have run out for a rugby test match in Cape Town, and with the Springboks thirsty for revenge after their 22-38 mauling at Ellis Park, the Springboks vs Wallabies game at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 23 August, is going to be a match to remember.

But, with more than 55 000 fans expected to fill the stands of the DHL Cape Town Stadium, getting to and from the stadium smoothly – and well before the first whistle blows – requires a little planning. 

Need to Know

• What time do the stadium gates open: 12pm
• What time is kick-off: Springboks vs Australia, 5.10pm 

Getting There: Park & Ride

The City of Cape Town is expanding its free Park & Ride service, and there will be shuttles running to the stadium from Bellville Velodrome, Century City, the CTICC, Thibault Square and the Civic Centre.

Buses will start operating from 11.30am, with return trips running until 9.30pm.

Where to Park

• Civic Centre: Free parking for ticket holders from 11.30am (first-come, first-served). Park here and hop onto the MyCiTi shuttle
• Century City: Park at the Steelbridge e-Parking (Century Boulevard) and ride the shuttle. Limited free parking, with paid options at the mall.
• Bellville: Park at the Velodrome and catch the shuttle straight to the stadium precinct.
• CTICC: Shuttles depart from the City Sightseeing stop on Walter Sisulu Avenue. If you're parking in the CBD, remember on-street parking is free from 1pm.

Getting There: By Train

Metrorail is adding extra services across all operating lines from 11am-10pm. A return ticket costs just R20.

From Cape Town Station, grab a MyCiTi bus or enjoy the FanWalk to Green Point.

Getting There: E-hailing

Use the designated drop-off and pick-up at P13, Green Point Main Road (between York Road and Wigtown Road).

Remember that surge pricing often kicks in with large events, making this an expensive way to get home.

Key Road Closures

Heading to the stadium by car? Firstly, that's a terrible idea, rather use one of the public transport options above if you're going to the game. But if you have to drive in the area on Saturday, expect significant traffic congestion and be aware of these key road closures:

• Fritz Sonnenberg Road (McDonald's P3 – Vlei Road): Full closure, 24 hours
• Stephan Way (Fritz Sonnenberg – Hamilton's RFC): Full closure, 06:00–22:30
• Vlei Road (Helen Suzman Blvd – Fritz Sonnenberg): Full closure, 06:00–22:30
• Fort Wynyard Street (Portswood Rd – Granger Bay Blvd): Full closure, 06:00–22:30
• Granger Bay Boulevard (Helen Suzman Blvd – Beach Rd): Restricted access, 06:00–22:30

Rather, take the shuttles and make your way into the sea of green and gold without the stress.

"We know that game days mean heavy traffic and congestion," says Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security. "We encourage everyone to use the Park-and-Ride system and dedicated shuttle services, which offer a convenient, reliable and traffic-beating way to enjoy the game without the stress of driving."

Before the game

Make a day of it and aim to get to the stadium precinct nice and early. The area around the DHL Stadium is filled with fantastic places to eat and drink to help get you in the green-and-gold gees before the game. Need some inspo? Start with the Time Out guide to the Best bars and restaurants close to DHL Cape Town Stadium.