Celebration of Maori rugby ahead of Steamers clash

Bay of Plenty Rugby chief executive Mike Rogers. Photo/File

A solid afternoon of rugby is promised when the Steamers take on Auckland this Sunday at the International Stadium.

The day will be particularly special as it's in celebration of Maori rugby and a number of events are planned for the afternoon.

The Bay of Plenty boasts the largest number of Maori involved in rugby in the country and this weekend the union pays special tribute to the contribution Maori rugby has made to the growth, development and success of rugby in the region.

"Maori rugby has had a significant history in the Bay of Plenty. I understand the first national Maori team originated from Matata. Also the first national Maori international game was played in Rotorua," said Bay of Plenty Rugby chief executive Mike Rogers.

Celebrations kick off at 2.05pm with the curtain-raiser between the National Maori Under-18 Development Team and Te Waiariki Under-19s.

At 3.40pm there will be a launch of a Maori Rugby Development Initiative in the Compass Group Lounge.

There will also be a taiaha presentation in the lounge in preparation for next year's
Lions Tour of the country. In less than a year the Maori All Blacks play The British & Irish Lions in Rotorua.

As part of the series, New Zealand Rugby has commissioned seven Taiaha, serving as match-day trophies for games involving the Lions and all five of New Zealand's Investec Super Rugby teams, the Provincial Barbarians, and the Maori All Blacks.

The Taiaha match-day trophy being played for by the British & Irish Lions and Maori All Blacks is being presented to Rotorua dignitaries for safe keeping until the game.

The Family Zone will be open this Sunday, giving children the opportunity for autographs,
giveaways, skills and drills.

What: Mitre 10 Cup: BOP Steamers vs Auckland
Where: Rotorua International Stadium
When: Sunday, September 25, 4.35pm
Buy Tickets-07 574 2037