She said carrying the Japanese flag had been "pretty cool", but she was there to support the Black Sticks.
Her mum, Hayley Browne, said while she had not always been a hockey fan, with her two children both keen hockey players, "we've become very much a hockey family".
Although they had not been able to catch the earlier game, Ms Browne said so far the festival had been great. She hoped they would be able to attend more games during the festival.
"We're really enjoying it. It's always good to see the local girls play," she said.
Even a burst water main did not get the family's spirits down - play was suspended seconds before half time was called after water began flooding the area, and making its way onto the pitch.
After play resumed the Black Sticks lost 2-1.
Vantage Black Sticks coach Mark Hager was obviously disappointed with the first up performance.
"There were inconsistencies in our game that allowed Japan to score their two goals. Our penalty corner defence was poor and the players made basic skill errors."
He said "in the final two quarters we were clearly on top and created enough chances to have won the match."
Last night's were the first games in the week long Festival of Hockey, which promises action-packed games and two other tournaments with international and youth teams.
Sports park chairman Rex Graham said so far, he had recieved great feedback about the festival.
"It's a tremendous festival and a great thing for the region."
