Picnic blankets are being rolled out at North Hagley Park ahead of tonight’s opening ceremony.

Christchurch and Melbourne will host the ceremony, just over 36 hours out from the first match of the tournament between New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

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Backyard cricket, bands and food stalls have been put on to entertain the public ahead of the main event at 8:30.

World Cup operations manager Gavin Larsen says the weather is perfect and the crowds have turned out.

"There's not a cloud in the sky, it's beautiful," he said.

"The opening ceremony is about to take place and there's thousands of people here already."

Veeda Rodgers and her sister have been camped out for hours to get the best spot.

"About three o'clock we arrived," she said. "We'll probably feel the effects of the sun tomorrow!"

Former Australian captain Allan Border says it is important for the hosts to embrace the pressure on their shoulders.

He says they need to embrace playing at home as local fans will provide an extra spur in tight matches.

Tonight’s ceremony will be broadcast to more than 1 billion people worldwide.