Silver Ferns to play Jamaica in Rotorua

GAME: The Silver Ferns lined up for the anthems at the game against Jamaica on Wednesday in Palmerston North. PHOTO/FILE

Locals will have a rare chance to soak up the atmosphere of international sport when they cheer on the Silver Ferns against Jamaica in Rotorua.

The Silver Ferns and Jamaican Sunshine Girls will battle it out in the third and final test of the New World Netball Series for the Taini Jamison Trophy - with New Zealand having taken out the first two tests to wrap up the series and trophy.

Netball New Zealand chief executive Jennie Wyllie said Rotorua's Taini Jamison was a netball icon.

Ticket sales were going well and she was hoping for a capacity crowd.

Ms Wyllie said it was a family friendly event and live netball was something "so dynamic and exciting, and kids love it".

She said the players were enjoying the opportunity to walk among the community.

"They get a buzz from engaging with young kids and all their fans, so it's really good for them."

And it's not just world-class netball on display, with a range of entertainment on show.

Invercargill musician Dene Allen will perform before the game, and Auckland-based opera group The Shades will sing the anthems and perform at half time.

The Rise Dance Company - G Funk - will also be performing at half time.

Tilly Hurst (nee Vercoe), Silver Fern number 37 who played from 1967 to 1971, will be doing the coin toss before the game.

There will also be two young ball deliverers of ages 5 and 8 for the first and third quarters.

Ms Wyllie said the tradition of ball deliverers gave children the opportunity "to get out there and be part of that excitement".

What: NWNS Taini Jamison Trophy 2016: Silver Ferns vs Jamaica
When: Saturday 5pm
Where: Rotorua Energy Events Centre
Tickets: Adults from $40 and children from $15. Available from the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre's Ticketmaster Box Office. Door sales also.