The Bay of Plenty Steamers v Wellington Lions Bunnings Warehouse NPC game, originally scheduled for 7.05pm, will now kick off at 2.05pm on October 2 at Rotorua International Stadium.
With the aim of attracting a big crowd for the game and avoiding a time clash with the All Blacks v South Africa, the Steamers' Rotorua match will now take place in the sunshine, which will no doubt be attractive to Steamers fans and whānau.
Rotorua Lakes Council sports and events manager Steve Watene said the council was pleased with the change.
"This will be the first afternoon game we have had for a number of years and with the game also being later in the season in October, this is shaping as an excellent family event for our community," he said.
Bay of Plenty Rugby partnerships and engagement manager Neil Alton said: "This day game versus one of the heavyweights of provincial rugby is going to be a highlight of the Bunnings NPC season.
"We look forward to working with the Rotorua community to make this event a huge success."