Fanzone kicks off in lead up to Steamers game

Raewyn Mortensen left, Steamie, Regan, 6 and Blair Tristram before the long awaited Tauranga Domain Steamers and Waikato ITM Cup. Photo/George Novak

Activities have kicked off in the fanzone in Tauranga's CBD this morning in the lead up to the long awaited Steamers and Waikato game this afternoon.

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

Bay of Plenty Rugby chief executive Mike Rogers said changing the venue of today's 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 holding the game to the Domain was an attempt to get supporters closer to the action than was possible at ASB Baypark.

Fans and families dressed in blue and yellow wandered the streets to the match with live music and entertainment.

Steamers fan David Cartwright took his family to the fanzone to soak up the atmosphere and grab a bite to eat along the Strand before the game kicked off at 2.35pm.

Thousands are expected at the game this afternoon.