Fanzone to host big-match supporters

NEW LOCATION: The Steamers will next take on Waikato at a new location at Tauranga Domain. Steamers Joe Tupe passes to Beau Robinson against Waikato.

Entertainment and performances will line Tauranga's waterfront in a city centre "fan zone" as rugby fever moves to a new venue closer to the city.

Tauranga Domain will host the Bay of Plenty Steamers and the Waikato Mooloos who are set to go head-to-head in an ITM Cup match on August 30.

The fan zone will be set up on Wharf St and The Stand as the match is expected to bring large crowds into the CBD.

Mayor Stuart Crosby said council "did a pathetic job" for fans during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but was confident the new council would deliver.

"Now this particular game is at The Domain, I'm really confident we can demonstrate that we can entertain the fans," Mr Crosby said.

"The aspects of it are supporting our CBD and also demonstrating that The Domain has a future."

The Domain saw a 7000-strong crowd at this year's Anzac Day commemorations and Mr Crosby received overwhelming feedback about the venue.

"The Domain is a fantastic downtown facility and is ideally located to make the most of Tauranga's exciting dining scene," Mr Crosby said.

"I think this rugby game will demonstrate that the community would love to have rugby back at The Domain at a higher level."

The main routes from the waterfront to The Domain are expected to come to life with entertainment as fans make their way for the 2.35pm kick off.

Tauranga Samba, the Bay Twisters and Tauranga Highland Band will perform while fans enjoy the atmosphere at the dining precinct.

Co-owner of the popular bar and restaurant The Phoenix Melissa Lawrence said the match would create a flow-on effect into the CBD.

"It's exciting to see they're going to use the Tauranga Domain for more sporting events," Ms Lawrence said.

"Being able to bring people out to celebrate the events that are happening in the city is also a real benefit for the local and surrounding businesses."

She would also like to see Tauranga host more high-level sport. "I think the next step now is to get a couple of those league games, Rotorua can pick them up, we should be able to as well."