It's all about family and safety for the South Auckland community board when it comes to the Rugby League World Cup.

Tonga play Lebanon in tonight's quarterfinal in the Rugby League World Cup and a fan zone will be set up on the main street of Otahuhu for post match celebrations.

It is hoped the zone will avoid the mass arrests over the past two weekends as a result of overly jubilant celebrations.

Mangere/Otahuhu board member Christine O'Brien said the zone will involve food and entertainment and be alcohol-free.

"We really want to create a space where everybody can come and have a great time safely with their families. That's why the local board has gotten involved in this."

The project has come together thanks to the work of community leaders, the local business association and police.

O'Brien said everybody has the best interests of the community at heart.

"Community leaders have their various interests, and the fans obviously want to support their teams, so it's all just come together beautifully in quite a hurry, but we've got great hopes."