Northland have secured 200 more season memberships than last year. Photo/John Stone
Northland have secured 200 more season memberships than last year. Photo/John Stone
Two hundred new Northlanders have got behind the Taniwha side ahead of the Mitre 10 Cup season, as season memberships overtake the 2016 mark.
With season memberships and corporate hospitality selling fast, commercial marketing manager Pat Stevens thinks this Taniwha side under coach Derren Witcombe has Northlanders excited.
"Currently wehave nearly 600 season members and I think people can see the potential in Derren's return, along with the potential of the squad," he said.
"From what fans have seen of the players already announced, I think that appeals too.
"I think something for our fans to know also is we are changing and moving with the time. We are trying new things and our online presence is getting bigger every month."
For new and returning fans the Taniwha game day experience will be different to other years.
On the cards for the 2017 season is a host of changes at Toll Stadium, including live music under the stadium before kick-off, the ability to buy supporter gear, and a Taniwha side looking to redeem themselves.
Stevens said the early signs for a fan's game day experience were looking good, with the idea being to create a fun but family atmosphere at games.
"While our spectator numbers last year were low, they were no worse than any other year - and we had terrible weather all season.
"Hopefully this year we get some better weather so the fans can enjoy their time at Toll Stadium."
Northland Rugby Union chief executive Alistair McGinn said it was reassuring to see so many fans take advantage of the season membership packages.
"This year is a big year for us, thankfully we have had a good start to it with securing Derren and he has done a great job in selecting a quality squad," he said.
"We're really happy with what Derren has done so far and just can't wait for the season to kick off."
The Taniwha season kicks off at 2.35pm on August 20 at home against Bay of Plenty.
