Hurricanes season memberships have more than doubled with an army of new fans pledging their support for the club's 2016 Investec Super Rugby season.
 
There will be a total of 4520 season members urging their team on at Westpac Stadium this season, a 138 per cent increase on last year's figure of 1900.
 
Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee put the increase down to great rugby and great value.
 
"Clearly our fans have responded to the exciting brand of rugby the team played on their way to the Super Rugby final last year. It was a thrilling ride and people clearly want to be a part of it.
 
"But it's also about us providing value to our fans. I believe the club's membership packages have done that and our fans have responded, which is great. Notably more than 1200 people have already locked in their memberships for 2017 and that's exciting to see."
 
Hurricanes 2016 season passes started at $99, down from $139 in 2015, and included tickets to all six of the team's home matches at Westpac Stadium as well as free transport to and from the venue on Go Wellington and Valley Flyer buses.
 
The Hurricanes home schedule includes matches against Argentina's new Super Rugby team the Jaguares, Queensland's Reds, as well as New Zealand rivals the Chiefs Highlanders and Blues.
 
And there are already signs of a healthy crowd when they host South Africa's Southern Kings on March 25 where family passes are available for just $39 on the day including free Easter eggs.
 
Hurricanes captain Dane Coles said the increase in season members was a genuine boost for the team.
 
"When the guys run onto Westpac Stadium and see the stands full it gives them a massive lift. There's no doubt the support we received throughout the season last year was a big reason we made it to the final.
"Seeing our fans at the ground and knowing so many people have committed to support us right through the year means a lot. We can't wait to get out there and give them something to cheer about in 2016 and hopefully put a smile on their faces."
 
Though the deadline for buying season passes was March 13, Hurricanes fans can still buy Try Pack memberships, which allow fans to choose any three of the team's six home matches in 2016 at a discounted price.
 
Student memberships, which include all six matches, are also still on sale for just $59.