Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, September 22, 2023
An unforgettable weekend of sport is set to unfold as Hamilton Kirikiriroa plays host to not one, but two world-class sporting events on the same day. From Rugby to Netball, Hamiltonians will be out in full force to support the ‘Wāhine Toa’ or female warriors as they come on the battlefield of sports.
The Black Ferns will go head-to-head with Australia for the O’Reilly Cup at FMG Stadium Waikato on Saturday, September 30, 2023, before the England Roses take on the Silver Ferns at Globox Arena, Claudelands, in the Cadbury Netball Series for the Taini Jamison Trophy.
Much awaited Hamilton return
FMG Stadium Waikato will host the Black Ferns for the first time since 2013. Black Ferns Director of Rugby, Allan Bunting, said the squad cannot wait to return home to play in front of fans at FMG Stadium Waikato. “We are very excited to play the final O’Reilly Cup test in Hamilton. It will be a fantastic opportunity for whanau and fans to see the team in action for the first time on home soil this season.”
H3, Hamilton City Council’s event venues division, is encouraging attendees to use public buses, which will be free for fans on match day upon showing their tickets. This will apply to all regional and urban bus services.
Netball Series Final Test
GLOBOX Arena, Claudelands, will host the final test in the Cadbury Netball Series at 7 pm on Saturday. “It is awesome to be part of the big weekend of sport in Hamilton. We are excited for the Silver Ferns to be back, hosting the England Roses for the final game of the Taini Jamison Trophy. Hamilton always puts on a great crowd and atmosphere,” said Emma Fowlie, Head of Events and Competitions, Netball New Zealand.
Hamilton City Council’s Venues, Tourism, and Events General Manager, Sean Murray, hopes the city embraces the excitement both these events have to offer. “Hamilton’s dedication to hosting top-tier sporting events underscores the city’s commitment to sports and its passion for creating unforgettable experiences for players and fans alike.”
“It has been an incredible year for women’s sport and we wish to continue supporting these incredible athletes with world-class events here in Hamilton, and yes it is possible to attend both games on the day.”
Beyond the stadium
Current Black Ferns players will be at The Base, Te Rapa on Sunday, September 24, 2023 between 2.30 pm-3.30 pm to connect with their supportive fans with posters and poi-making to build excitement leading up to the game.
Get your tickets now
Tickets for both the O’Reilly Cup and the Cadbury Netball Series are available for purchase online. Early booking is recommended to secure the best seats and ensure a spot in these highly anticipated events.
More sporting action for Hamilton
FMG Stadium Waikato will also be the host for the Pacific Cup grand final on Saturday, November 4, 2023, as part of the newly announced Pacific Championships in partnership with the New Zealand Rugby League.
The 2023 Pacific Championships is a two-tiered competition with six men’s teams and seven women’s teams taking part in the tournament across two pools.
“I firmly believe the Pacific Cup will be the biggest international rugby league event on home soil since the 2017 World Cup,” said NZRL CEO Greg Peters.
Hamilton City Council’s General Manager of Venues, Tourism and Major Events, Sean Murray, said: “We are working hard to deliver an exceptional Pacific Championship final at FMG Stadium Waikato. The team looks forward to passionate fans and the exposure this game will bring to our city and region.”
“How special to bring the best players in the world back home to play in front of their communities,” said NZRL CEO Greg Peters. “We are excited to work with these Pacific teams to bring our rugby league heroes back home and unite fans across New Zealand and the Pacific. No other code can produce such a celebration of culture and passion; the atmosphere will be unmissable.”
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
