Big game fever hits Kaikohe as influx expected

Kaikohe businesses are rubbing their hands in glee as the town prepares to host the pre-season Northland vs North Harbour rugby match this afternoon.
Pubs, cafes and accommodation in the small Far North Town are gearing up for an influx of customers, especially after the game, but dread a repeat of last weekend's wet weather.
The Northland Rugby Union expects between 3000 and 5000 fans to watch the game.
The Bank Bar will host Northland players after the game and owner Gayleen Maurice  could not be happier.
"It's great to have something like this in town ... we hope to get a bit of extra turnover," she said.
"Northland players will have dinner after the match then come here so we're hoping to be busy."
Ms Maureen said that, like other residents, she would love to see an actual NPC game in Kaikohe.
Kaikohe Business Association head and Mid North Motor Inn owner Perry van Gaalen  has had to turn away  people  seeking accommodation.
"Everyone's talking about it,  and it's a good chance for Kaikohe businesses to capitalise and make extra money."
Mr van Gaalen said although he did not expect many rugby fans to travel from as far away as Auckland, there would be a lot of locals from outlying areas such as Hokianga, Okaihau and Ohaeawai interested in the match.
"We don't often get games like this and, as a personal challenge, I hope our crowd is bigger than the game in Kerikeri," he said.
Len's Pies and Rob's Bread Shop owner Kevin Maxwell  has sold food to other businesses such as service stations and hotels.
"Anything that generates people and traffic through this town is really good.
"If people love the place, they might come back for the next match and it will be really good if something like this happens in Kaikohe every week," Mr Maxwell said.
He's praying for the weather to stay put.