Kicking off at 7.35pm last night the Hurricanes vs Brumbies rugby match brought more than just sporting excitement to the region of Hawke's Bay.
The Bay's tourism sector is set to reap the benefits of an influx of rugby fans who travelled to the region for the Super Rugby game.
Hawke's Bay Tourism general manager Annie Dundas said the game would be great for tourism and expected visitors from as far as Wellington would travel to the region.
"It's always good to have events like this here. It's a big game obviously and we're delighted to have it in Napier."
Napier Garden Motel, located one street back from Marine Parade, had no vacancy last night due to the game.
The motel's owner Ben Fraser said most of those staying were in the region for the rugby game, and had chosen the motel due to the close proximity to McLean Park.
"I think it does make a difference, people like to be close . . . you can see the lights of the stadium from here."
Mr Fraser said the game had brought people from as far as Wellington and Auckland and thought all big events in the region were good for motels.
Last night's game follows a rather action-packed few weeks for the Bay; with the Mission concert and Easter weekend festivities keeping locals busy.
Ms Dundas said the large events always bring people to the region and was pleased the Super Rugby game came on the tail end of a busy period.
Napier mayor Bill Dalton, who was at the game last night, said McLean Park was "pumping".
"There's no question about it that any major event we can bring to Hawkes' Bay is good for Hawke's Bay."
Mr Dalton said large events, like last night's game, had broad benefits and injected new money into the local economy.
Being one of the country's best parks, Mr Dalton said McLean Park is enjoyed by the Hurricanes, adding that they've expressed they would like to play more games here in the future.
Mr Dalton expected most of those who had travelled for the rugby game would stick around for the weekend to make the most of the Bay.