NRL: New Perth stadium a hit with fans

The new 60,000-seat Optus Stadium will next year host a test between the All Blacks and Wallabies. Photo / AAP

Kiwi league fans will get their first glimpse of Perth's new state of the art 60,000-seat Optus Stadium when the Warriors take on the Rabbitohs in tonight's round one NRL match.

The recently opened multi-purpose venue will next year host the All Blacks and Wallabies in the first Bledisloe Cup test played in Western Australia before both sides embark on their Rugby World Cup campaign in Japan.

Both games are sure to be a hit with Perth's strong ex-pat Kiwi population, with organisers anticipating around 35,000 fans for tonight's NRL double-header, which also features the Canterbury Bulldogs hosting reigning premiers Melbourne Storm, while All Blacks fans are expected to follow their side across the Tasman in big numbers in 2019.

"That will be huge," said stadium chief executive Mike McKenna.

"We've had a number of events here that have been sell-outs or close to, including a one-day match between Australia and England, a Big Bash League semifinal, an AFL women's match, and then last weekend, we had two crowds of 60,000 for Ed Sheeran's concerts.

"It's been a revelation for people. Those who have been here already enjoy it and those looking forward to the rugby league games and Bledisloe Cup test can't wait."

No expense was spared on the $1.4 billion dollar Government-funded project, including a new public transport network and extensive parklands and entertainment precinct within the 16 hectare site located east of the city centre and close to the Swan River.

Seating within the oval stadium will be adjusted for tonight's game and other rectangular field sports, with additional stands extending on to the grass behind the goal posts and along one side to get fans closer to the action.

"It's got the latest architectural design so the seats are a lot closer to the field of play," McKenna said.

"They are tiered upwards instead of back so everyone gets a great view."

The Warriors had their first look at the venue at last night's captain's run and are hoping the new stadium brings a change of fortune, having gone winless in nine games in Perth at Subiaco Oval, the WACA Ground and nib Stadium.