South Island triple header set for Orangetheory Stadium in September

Christchurch is set to host a blockbusting day of rugby on Saturday September 23 with the Canterbury NPC clash against rivals Tasman now sandwiched between two Heartland matches comprising South Canterbury versus neighbours Mid Canterbury and Buller up against West Coast, all at Orangetheory Stadium. 

“We saw this as a real opportunity to offer the rugby loving public something different and celebrate all rugby in the upper South Island,” said Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail.

“Having the rivalry matches of our closest neighbours all aligning into one weekend creates an amazing opportunity for all fans across the provinces, and Canterbury look forward to hosting them alongside our own.”

It’s a sentiment felt across the provincial unions, with both South Canterbury and Buller excited to host games as a part of the weekend.

“We see this day as a wonderful experience where all the Unions can come together and play at the same venue and on the same day.” said South Canterbury CEO Tim Hyde-Smith. “Our Union will get behind this day and promote it strongly throughout our community. It will be a great afternoon and evening of rugby where all six unions and their supporters will be able to engage in.” 

“Our battles with Mid-Canterbury are legendary and we expected it will be another competitive game. Thank you to Canterbury for hosting us all in what should be a great showcase of Heartland and NPC rugby.”

Buller CEO Andrew Duncan looks forward to the chance for his side to showcase their talent to a wider audience in a bid to retain the Rundle Cup.

“We don’t often get our matches broadcasted live, so It’s a great opportunity for our guys and their families to have this happen,” said Duncan.

“It’s something fun and a bit different too for Buller, being able to play our brand of rugby on the big stage will be pretty special.”

South Canterbury versus Mid Canterbury will kick off the triple header at 2:05, before Canterbury take on Tasman at 4:35pm. Buller will then host West Coast in the late game with kick off scheduled for 7:05pm. Tickets will go on sale closer to the season starting.