Top Bay of Plenty rugby referee Glen Jackson has his bags packed and is off to officiate at the 2015 World Rugby in England and Wales.

Jackson joins nine other refs from around the globe in what looks to be one of the most closely-contested World Cups since the tournament's inception in 1987.

Glen Jackson will officiate three pool matches at the Rugby World Cup before the knockout rounds. Photo: File.

South African referee Jaco Peyer controls the opening match between hosts England and Fiji on Thursday, September 18, at Twickenham.

New Zealand referee coach and Tauranga local Bryce Lawrence says it's an amazing achievement for Glen.

'As a referee, it's the absolute pinnacle to officiate at this tournament,” says Bryce.

'We have encouraged him to take his natural feel and empathy for the game onto the field as his natural point of difference.”

The appointments have been released for the pool games and Jackson has three games. Once the knockout stages get underway, match officials will be appointed based on performance and neutrality.

'We look forward to seeing Jackson in the middle for the third and fourth place playoff,” adds Bryce, 'for if he's appointed to the final, it can only mean that the All Blacks haven't made it.”

Bay of Plenty Rugby Referee manager Pat Rae also wishes Glen all the best for the tournament,

'We had Jacko present to our up and coming refs only last week,” says Pat, 'and his experience and expertise was lapped up by the young guys.”

Schedule of Glen Jackson's Pool Matches:

Ireland v Canada at Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. Saturday, September 19.

Tonga v Namibia at Sandy Park, Exeter. Tuesday, September 29.

USA v Japan at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester. Sunday, October 11.