Wellington has lost the New Zealand leg of the rugby sevens world series, with Hamilton confirmed as host for the next two years.

Once one of the most popular events in Kiwi sport, poor crowds in recent years have ended the event's 18-year history in Wellington.

About 10,000 were on hand for both days over the weekend for this year's edition but in its heyday, the 34,000-capacity venue sold out in minutes.

New Zealand Rugby's chief strategy and operations officer Nigel Cass says it is time to start a new chapter for the tournament in New Zealand.

Next year's event will be held on February 3-4.

Nigel says Hamilton has a world-class stadium built for rugby fans, a central location for travelling fans, and most of all, a host community that loves rugby.

'Hamilton and the Waikato region are rugby-mad and we're looking forward to introducing international sevens to the local community and for visiting fans from around New Zealand to experience the heart of rugby in New Zealand.

'We are confident our partners in Hamilton will deliver an exceptional tournament that fans will love.”

Nigel says hosting a New Zealand leg of the World Sevens Series is important for New Zealand Rugby (NZR) as the sport continued to grow in popularity across the globe.

'The inclusion of sevens in the Olympic Games has introduced the sport to a new group of athletes and fans and NZR is committed to developing a strong sevens programme and showcasing this exciting sport at home.”

NZR has partnered with 37 South, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton City Council and the Chiefs to host the tournament in Hamilton.

37 South managing director Dallas Fisher says he is delighted to be part of the event.

'The planning starts now and we have some big ideas to ensure sevens becomes the hottest ticket in town. At FMG Stadium Waikato we can segment audiences so party-goers, families and rugby fans can all enjoy the event and entertainment in their own space.

'We will take all the best aspects of the two-day event and add our own special flavour of entertainment and experiences.

'We are asking fans for their input via the NZ Sevens Facebook page where they are welcome to share their ideas and wishlists.”

Hamilton Mayor Andrew King welcomes the news 37 South has brought the event to the city through working with World Rugby, New Zealand Rugby and Hamilton City Council.

'Hamilton has excellent credentials when it comes to stadia-based major events. Over the last few years we've delivered successful matches in three World Cups across three sports, All Blacks tests, Super Rugby semis and finals, as well as international cricket,” he says.

'We're looking forward to showcasing our city and region and their fantastic attractions to visiting fans while they're in town for what will be a great new event for Hamilton."

Nigel says moving the international tournament from Wellington was not a decision made lightly, but it was time to start a new chapter for the tournament in New Zealand.

'We delivered 18 years of good times and great tournaments in the capital, thanks to the exceptional teams we worked with at Wellington City Council, WREDA, Westpac Stadium, police, hospitality industry and our fantastic volunteers. I have nothing but praise for all those who contributed to the Wellington Sevens for almost two decades.”

- Additional reporting AAP