Unfortunately for hockey fans a severe weather warning was put in place by MetService last night which predicted 100-150mm of rain to fall in the next 24 hours.
Though there is an area above the turf sheltered from the rain most grandstands and places to watch the hockey are uncovered.
In among the umbrellas were keen fans Jess MacLellan and Kristin Kirkpatrick with children Zara, Shelby and Imogen.
The rain didn't hold the group back from getting right up close to the action as they travelled from Gisborne yesterday.
"We never get this opportunity to see the game so close and since we are all big hockey fans we decided to make the trip," Ms Kirkpatrick said.
"Though the weather is not ideal we still wanted to come and we have had a good day so far."
Napier Girls' High School hockey players Mikeely Jones and Rileigh Knapp, both 15, were also braving the wet weather.
The girls who are both competing in the schoolgirls Furnware Cup from Wednesday had been to all of the games so far.
"The rain doesn't stop us coming as I love the atmosphere and watching the speed of the game," Mikeely said.
Rileigh was equally enthused about the hockey on display and aspired to be like Black Stick Liz Thompson.
"She's my favourite player but I think the whole festival is fun and really cool to come to as the games are exciting."
The action on the turf gave the crowd something to cheer about with two tight knit contests.
Mr Nancarrow said the results yesterday meant any team was still in the running for the final creating an exciting next few days.
"Japan were unbeaten until yesterday so there should be some good hockey matches left and I encourage people to come down and watch what is on display."
For more information and tickets visit hockeyfestival.nz.
