It’s been a long time between drinks for Super Rugby fans in the small rural North Island township of Mangatainoka - home of Tui Brewery.
But come next February all that will change, when a farmer’s paddock will once again be transformed into a top-notch pitch ready to host Battle at the Brewery, a Super Rugby pre-season game between the Hurricanes and the Blues. Back by popular demand, February 9th 2019 will see the welcome return of the two popular Super Rugby franchises to the small township.
For one of the town’s most familiar faces, the return of the epic clash is especially meaningful.
Nick Rogers, who runs the visitor experience at Tui Brewery, originally came up with the idea to turn a local paddock into a rugby pitch and remembers how everyone thought he was mad.
“I had this idea to bring the Hurricanes to Mangatainoka back in 2009. At the time it raised a few eyebrows and people had a wee chuckle but pretty quickly they realised I was serious. Within weeks we had a team of terrific volunteers that helped make that first game possible,” recalls Rogers.
“Despite the rain and mud, it delivered an incredible game of rugby with the late Sir Colin Meads, Sir Brian Lochore and the great commentator Keith Quinn amongst the crowd. It reinforced how important it is to have top-level rugby players connect with their rural communities and inspire our youngsters. I’m so, so excited that Tui is bringing this epic clash back to Mangatainoka in 2019, 10 years after it first began.”
Dane Coles, captain of the Hurricanes, says the team is really keen to head back to the farm for the February game. “I know the whole squad are looking forward to heading back to Mangatainoka, especially the boys who have not experienced playing there before.”
“It really is a unique day and the team gets really well looked after by all the locals,” Coles said.
Tickets for the game are on sale now. It will be played on Kerry Fergus’ farm and will see the community rally together to host a predicted 3,500 visitors. There will be enough temporary seating to accommodate all ticket-holders; pre and post-game entertainment with passionate fans expected to turn out in their regional colours. There will also be prizes up for grabs for fans who go above and beyond with their fancy dress.
Rogers says news of the Battle at the Brewery has spread quickly through town and already the community are knocking on the doors at Tui Brewery wanting to help put on an epic and memorable day for sport fans.
DETAILS:
What: Battle at the Brewery
Super Rugby pre-season game between the Hurricanes and Blues
When: Saturday, 9th February 2019
Where: Mangatainoka
Time: Gates open 12.30pm
Kick off 3pm
Cost:
$45 GA before Santa
$50 GA after Santa
$140 CORPORATE – VIP
$80 SUPPORTERS PACK (tickets will include a Tui cap, t-shirt and GA ticket to the game)
$20 CHILD
All tickets are available to purchase from www.tuihq.co.nz or at Tui Brewery in Mangatainoka. GA tickets are available from local PGG Wrightson and Norwood Farm Machinery Stores. Once you’ve purchased your tickets, enter the draw to be part of the half time entertainment and go into the chance to win a Panasonic TV.
For bus or train ticket deals – please visit www.tranzit.co.nz or www.mainlinesteam.co.nz.
For all match day information visit www.tuihq.co.nz
- Join the Hurricanes 2019 membership family and write yourself into the latest chapter at Our House, Westpac Stadium by clicking HERE.
- To request a call back or to receive more information on 2019 Hurricanes membership packages click HERE.
- Reserved seating for seven Hurricanes matches played at Westpac Stadium
- Adults from $129 Adult + Child $149
- Free access to all home 2019 Hurricanes home playoff matches
- Right To Purchase tickets for 2019 All Blacks matches played in New Zealand
- Exclusive access to member events
- Members Captain’s Run
- Members Open Training
- Kids Coaching Clinic (Child members only)