High performance is hitting the road!

Selwyn residents won’t have to go far to see Provincial Rugby up close in 2024. Canterbury today announced that their Bunnings Warehouse NPC preseason against Otago will be held at Foster Park in Rolleston, while the final home game of the Farah Palmer Cup against Hawkes Bay is heading to Prebbleton.

“Our Rugby Community is a vital part of our DNA; they’re of utmost importance to us, emphasised Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail; so, to engage with them, where they are, and where they play their rugby is a key part of who we are and what we do.”

The two matches to be played in Selwyn directly result from the resounding success of Canterbury's first-ever NPC match played outside of Christchurch last year. The match, held in Rangiora as part of the annual Southbridge Shield contest between North Canterbury and Ellesmere, saw Canterbury emerge victorious over Taranaki. This success paves the way for matches in Selwyn, promising an exciting rugby season for the community.

“There are lots of things that go into making a day like that successful, from broadcast to facilities and transport, lighting, and all sorts of things, but with nearly 7,000 people attending the day in Rangiora, I’m sure Selwyn residents will come out in force to support these two games too,” Smail added.

 Ellesmere Rugby Sub Union President Chris Thornley agrees. “Our clubs work tirelessly to deliver quality rugby experiences for our community, so to be able to work with Canterbury Rugby to bring these games to Ellesmere is a great reward for the two clubs and everyone that enjoys the game in our region.”

“It’s fantastic to be able to bring these two games to Selwyn for our passionate sports community. Sports and events bring our community together, so to have the opportunity to host such prestigious sporting events like this is a real win. It’s great to see more and more sports choosing Selwyn and recognizing the excellent facilities and opportunities we have. We look forward to seeing many people there and enjoying these games.”  Sam Broughton, Mayor, Selwyn District Council.

 Rolleston Club President Nicky Ruki said “hosting a high level representative game will be a first for the Club and our Community, it’s a momentous occasion. With the growth in population in Selwyn and in particular Rolleston, we’re incredibly excited to support this event whilst showcasing our facilities.”

“It’s going to be a fantastic day here at Prebbleton. We’ve worked hard to develop a women's program, which is a great reward for all those who have contributed to that.” Jeromy Knowler, Prebbleton Rugby President

The Bunnings Warehouse NPC pre-season match against Otago at Foster Park is scheduled to kick off at 2:05 on Friday, August 02, and will be a free event. The Farah Palmer Cup clash against Hawkes Bay on September 14 also gets underway at 2:05 and will be broadcast on Sky Sport.

Memberships to attend all NPC and FPC home games are on sale now through Ticketek and include the exclusive retro members jersey!