Chance to sit beside Tohu Harris and watch the Warriors at McLean Park

Natalie and Tohu Harris in front of the appropriately named Harris Stand at McLean Park. The stand was named after Lewis Harris (1900–1983), a farmer, stock dealer and philanthropist. Photo / John Cowpland / alphapix

Tickets for Napier’s NRL preseason blockbuster will go on public sale on December 10, and Napier City Council says strong demand is expected.

The anticipated demand has prompted local rugby league great Tohu Harris to help launch a new premium fan experience.

Hawke’s Bay’s most prominent rugby league player is calling on fans to pack McLean Park on February 14 when the One New Zealand Warriors face Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in a match that will feature a special new attraction in his honour.

A dedicated section of the Harris Stand will be transformed into the Team Harris VIP Fan Zone, a premium area where supporters can sit alongside Harris and watch the on-field action.

Fans in this zone will also have entry to an exclusive pre-game function hosted by Tohu and Natalie Harris, alongside Tremains, and will meet Harris and several current Warriors players, who will be announced in the coming weeks.

The middle bay of the Harris Stand will be reserved for the Team Harris VIP Fan Zone, with only 400 tickets available.

It is expected to be one of the most sought-after ticketing options for the match.

Harris played 234 NRL games across a distinguished career but appeared at McLean Park only twice. His first match at the venue was in 2015, when he lined up for the Melbourne Storm in their win over St George Illawarra. He returned in 2023 as captain of the Warriors for their match against the Brisbane Broncos.

“I have great memories of that first game at McLean Park. I was just starting out in my professional career, and I was given the honour of designing the Storm’s playing jersey for what felt like a homecoming match for me.

“The Warriors love coming to Hawke’s Bay and Australian teams enjoy the trip as well. We have a real chance to show the NRL what this region can offer.”

Harris retired in early 2025 following injury, and he and his wife Natalie chose to return home to Hawke’s Bay with their son because of the lifestyle and opportunities the region offers. They have since joined leading real estate firm Tremains, where they help others make Hawke’s Bay their home.

Napier City Council event manager Kevin Murphy says securing the Warriors’ return to McLean Park has been a major focus for the council, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment is essential.

“Bringing the Warriors back to Napier has taken a lot of work behind the scenes, and it is important that fans help us showcase the region in the best possible way,” he says.

“We want a big, passionate crowd, but we need everyone to enjoy the occasion responsibly and remain off the playing field. Positive behaviour is key to keeping NRL events coming back to Hawke’s Bay. With tickets on sale December 10, we are expecting strong demand from both sides of the Tasman.”

Tickets start at $15 for children and $25 for adults on the embankment and $20 child and $30 adults in stands. Team Harris VIP Fan Zone tickets are $60 and include entry to a pre-match event in the Centennial Hall.

Tickets are available from Ticketek - https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show.aspx?sh=NZWARPS26

Footnote:

The Harris stand is named after Lewis Harris (1900–1983) a farmer, stock dealer and philanthropist.