Preparations in full swing for big weekend in Rotorua

The Lions arrived in Rotorua today. Photo/Ben Fraser

Rotorua residents are getting ready to showcase our world-famous manaakitanga (hospitality) to the thousands of rugby fans expected here this weekend.

Ahead of the unofficial fourth test match of The DHL NZ Lions Series 2017, between the Maori All Blacks and The British & Irish Lions, fans from all over the world will be arriving and ready to experience all that Rotorua has to offer.

Preparation of the inner city is under way with contractors adding extra facilities and increasing city clean patrols.

Signage is up at the main entrances to the city to remind drivers that travel times may be a bit longer and there may be delays during the next few days with extra people on the roads.

Ticket pick-ups for Lions game on Saturday night have been moved from the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre to the iSite across the road.

Saturday will be a big day in town and to support the events, especially the Giant Haka, Bay of Plenty Regional Council is providing free public bus transport all day.

Free shuttles to the stadium will run from 1pm to late at night. The pick-up/drop-off will be at the iSite.

Road closures will be in place on Devon St from 8am on Saturday from Smallbone Park to Springfield Rd. The main access to the stadium will be via Thebes St, off Malfroy Rd.

The roads surrounding the stadium are now currently considered a 'clean-zone' under the Major Events Management Act. No unauthorised sales of any merchandise or goods are permitted in these areas.

Fans are encouraged to get to the stadium as early as possible after the Giant Haka to watch the curtainraisers, which start at 12.30pm at Smallbone Park where the Australian and Canadian International Women's Rugby teams will face off before moving to Rotorua International Stadium to watch the Black Ferns take on England.

For anyone who missed out on tickets, the official Fan Zone will be at the Rotorua Energy Events Centre where you can watch the game live on big screens. The Fan Zone is a family-friendly event so alcohol is not permitted. Doors open at 6.30pm.

What's on in Rotorua this week

Thursday 15 June - Rotorua Night Market - come along for great food, music and boutique stalls. The family-friendly market has something for everyone to enjoy.

Friday 16 June - Matariki All Stars Parade. The parade of lanterns will tell the story of Matariki (the Māori New Year) as it makes its way through town to the Village Green for the Matariki Star Search showcase and fireworks. Parade starts at 7pm from the Rotorua Arts Village on Hinemaru Street.

Saturday 17 June - Join the Giant Haka - help Rotorua become the official record holder for the world's largest haka. Be at the Village Green from 10.30am. There will be loads of practise time to get your haka just right. Formal attempt starts at midday.

Saturday 17 June - International Women's Rugby - Australia v Canada. From the Giant Haka head to the free public curtainraiser at Smallbone Park. Kick-off is at 12.30pm.

Saturday 17 June - International Women's Rugby - Black Ferns v England. Rotorua International Stadium from 4.15pm. (Tickets sold out)

Saturday 17 June - Māori All Blacks v The British & Irish Lions - Rotorua International Stadium from 7.35pm. (Tickets sold out)

Saturday 17 June - Official Fan Zone - Rotorua Energy Events Centre. Doors open from 6.30pm. Watch the game live on the big screens at the free family-friendly Fan Zone. This event is alcohol-free and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday 18 June - The Big Brekkie at the Village Green -this pop-up food truck festival will help you beat that morning after hunger. Good food, live music and plenty of space to sit back and relax picnic style. Starts 8am.