Exclusive: Domain to host Steamers for ITM Cup match

Bay of Plenty Steamers

A key ITM Cup match between Bay of Plenty and Waikato will be held at Tauranga Domain instead of ASB Baypark for the first time in seven years.

Bay of Plenty Rugby chief executive Mike Rogers said moving the August 30 game
was in response to feedback from supporters that ASB Baypark did not provide the intimacy and "edge-of-your-seat" experience they wanted.

Mr Rogers said allocating the game to the Domain was an attempt to get supporters closer to the action than was possible at ASB Baypark.

He said the union was hoping to also hold a family-friendly festival on the Tauranga Waterfront before the game.

"But it is much more than just a rugby game. We have had some initial discussions with the Tauranga City Council. I think it fits nicely with what they want to achieve with the vision for the city," Mr Rogers said.

"We would like to see activity down The Strand and make it a family day with a real buzz around the CBD district. We have talked about how we work through the transportation of people from there up to the ground, with maybe a walkway like the World Cup had with potentially buskers along the route.

"This will be a unique experience for our supporters. Playing Waikato at 2.35pm in the centre of town at a venue with such an amazing history and tradition is something I can't wait for. I believe that this is one of those games that people will be talking about for years to come."

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby said Tauranga City Council was pleased to support the ITM Cup match at Tauranga Domain. "Major events add to the energy and vibrancy of a city, and help create opportunities for businesses and residents," he said.

"Sporting fixtures like ITM Cup games help develop Tauranga as a major events destination and celebrate our city. The recent Anzac Day combined civic memorial service that was held at Tauranga Domain was an example of how adaptable and central this venue is. Go the Steamers."

Temporary seating will be erected at the Domain to increase the seating capacity to 6000 and create an enclosure around the field that will have supporters close to the action.

New Steamers coach Clayton McMillan was also pleased a game has been allocated to the Domain. He played his 100th match for the union there and has fond memories of captaining the Steamers to victory in the NPC Second Division final against Nelson Bays in 2000.

"Temporary stands were erected around the ground bringing supporters closer than ever to the action. It created an electric atmosphere and was very intimidating to visiting teams.

"A return to those fond days would be magic," he said.