It's Going to be Super

Posted 21 January 2011

Blues fans are in for a major treat with a chance to meet the Blues squad at the Kerikeri Domain from 4.30 to 6pm on the eve of the Blues v Hurricanes game on Friday February 4 at 5pm.

Game organisers say the Blues will sign autographs, there will be prize giveaways, and merchandise and tickets will be for sale at the grounds during Thursday's meet and greet. Flags and posters will be given to children attending the game and there will be another chance to get autographs after the match.

Hurricanes fans will have an opportunity to see the team when the squad takes a walk around the Domain at 11.45am before Friday's Super 15 clash.

Council operations manager Sue Hodge says a strong contingent of current and former All Blacks will be among the teams on the day with up to 25 current and former All Blacks in the two squads.

"The match provides a great chance for rugby enthusiasts to see their favourite stars in action and meet some of them as well," she said. "We are really pleased to be able to offer this rare opportunity in the Far North and there will be a live webcast of the game for those who can't make it in person."

Ms Hodge says preparations for the game are progressing well. The permanent grandstand outside the squash clubrooms is complete and will be used to meet Blues hospitality needs, and components for the 3500 seat public grandstand arrived on Monday, January 24, ready for an immediate start to construction.

Game sponsorship has been secured from Barfoot and Thompson as match day sponsors and Placemakers as silver sponsor.

Volunteers from the Kerikeri Leadership programme and Cadet Unit are ready to assist with ushering and other duties on the day. Both programmes provide leadership experiences for young people and focus on opportunities and outcomes of benefit to the whole community.

Tickets are available from council service centres and i-SITES at $30 for seated, numbered grandstand, $10 adult general admission and $5 child general admission. Ten corporate tables for 10 are available with more than half already sold.

For further information, phone the Council on 0800 920 029, go to www.fndc.govt.nz/rugby, or e mail super15@fndc.govt.nz