Poor air quality is the major concern ahead of the start of the Hong Kong Sevens tonight.

There was doubt during the week whether the tournament would go ahead due to a sandstorm which, mixed with the already bad air pollution, made conditions intolerable.

New Zealand sevens coach Gordon Tietjens said they are affected by it and two players struggled with their breathing at training.

Tietjens points out that it has not become any better over the past couple of days and it is so bad schools in the city have stopped outdoor activities.

Tietjens said however the team is ready.

The Hong Kong 7s tournament starts today at 9:30pm.

The opening match will see Samoa take on Italy.

Fiji's opening pool match will be against Thailand today at 10:14pm.