Wainuiomata, the birthplace of Hurricanes legends the likes of Tana Umaga and Piri Weepu, will host the Hurricanes' final pre-season match of 2025 against the Blues on 7 February. 

The match will take place at William Jones Park, home of the Wainuiomata Rugby Club, and promises to be an exciting clash as the Hurricanes face off against the defending Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Blues. 

Wainuiomata, with a population of just 20,000, has consistently produced rugby greats. All Blacks legends Tana Umaga, Piri Weepu, and Neemia Tialata all hail from the suburb, while Jonah Lomu represented the local club in 2000 and 2001. Current stars include Tyrel Lomax, who won this year's prestigious Tom French Memorial Māori Player of the Year award, and the Umaga-Jensen twins. 

This will be the first-ever Super Rugby pre-season showdown held in Wainuiomata, and with a strong emphasis on connection and community, Hurricanes Head Coach Clark Laidlaw was a driving force behind selecting the venue. 

"Wainuiomata is a passionate rugby community and home to some of our most loyal supporters. It’s always special when we can get out and connect with our fans in the wider region," said Laidlaw. 

"Tyrel Lomax and Peter Umaga-Jensen both grew up in Wainuiomata and have strong ties to the rugby club. It felt like a natural fit for us to play there, and it aligns perfectly with our goals this season: strengthening our connection with the fans and giving back where we can." 

Blues Assistant Coach, Craig McGrath said his team were looking forward to heading down to Wainuiomata to play the Hurricanes. 

“Pre-season is a great chance to test what we’ve been working on over the past few months in a live game environment.” 

“The Hurricanes are always a strong outfit, and this season will be no exception. It’s always a pleasure to head to smaller, club grounds like William Jones Park and we’re looking forward to turning a few of Wainuiomata’s faithful blue for the day!” 

Hurricanes midfielder and Wainuiomata native, Peter Umaga-Jensen, shared his excitement about the match: 

"I’m stoked to bring the game to my home turf. I’ve got so many memories on that field (William Jones Park) from playing for Wainui since I was five, and it’ll always feel like home. To give back in this way and play in front of my friends and family is going to be really special." 

The game will kick off at 3.00pm Friday 7 February for an afternoon of thrilling summer rugby. Tickets go on sale at 5pm today, don’t miss out on this epic showdown!