Feed the backs - and the kids - at rugby final promising plenty of family fun

The Steamers are back at Rotorua International Stadium this weekend. PHOTO/FILE

Hopefully the Bay of Plenty Steamers will get to "feed the backs" when they play Manawatu in the final game of the Mitre 10 Cup at Rotorua International Stadium this weekend.

And they're not the only ones making sure all the important people get fed.

Families are encouraged to get along to the game with free food for children offered as an extra enticement to the rugby.

"The Mitre 10 Cup is a family day out and what better way to entice our community to attend than allowing their kids to eat for free and enjoy the atmosphere of an afternoon game of rugby," said marketing manager for the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, Amanda Thompson.

Children need to redeem a token at the main stand and will be provided chicken and chips, as well as a piece of fruit supplied by Fruit Monster.

The Family Zone will be back, with giveaways, face painting and player autographs.

The game has a charity focus this weekend, with proceeds going to St Vincent de Paul.

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union recently announced a partnership with the charity, and once again feeding people is a top priority.

The partnership aims to support St Vincent's community programmes with three key priorities of increasing its food van services in Rotorua, improving the nightly food van service in Tauranga, and extending Young Vinnies Activities in the region.

"Bay of Plenty Rugby is committed to helping make the Bay of Plenty a better place and giving back to our community. Partnering with BOP Vinnie's is a great way we can live this. BOP Vinnie's are providing direct benefit to a large number of our community that need support," said Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chairman Paul Owen.

What: BOP Steamers vs Manawatu
Where: Rotorua International Stadium
When: Sunday, 4.35pm