Auckland City Mayor John Banks will tomorrow (Tuesday 9th) host a luncheon at the Town Hall to salute All Black and Auckland rugby great Fred Allen.

The luncheon coincides with Allen's 90th birthday and will be attended by many of New Zealand's sporting elite.

Among the crowd will be 10 All Black Test captains including Sir Colin Meads, guest speakers Sir Wilson Wineray and Sir Brian Lahore, plus horse trainer and owner Sir Patrick Hogan.

Mayor Banks says the luncheon is a tribute on behalf of the citizens of Auckland to Allen's many lifetime achievements.

"Fred Allen is a true example of what makes this country great. Not only was he an outstanding All Blacks captain and coach but he was also a soldier who served overseas and has been a great battler for his community in Rodney.

"Fred 'The Needle' Allen deserves to be recognized and I am delighted to be able to say thank you for being a wonderful role model and an inspirational Aucklander.

"It is an honour to be able to share this great milestone with such an outstanding man; he is one of our greatest living New Zealanders."

Mayor Banks will present a gift and cake to Allen in celebration of his 90th birthday.