The funeral for Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming is in Nelson today and California remains under critical fire threat. Video / NZ Herald, AFP
After more than a decade, the Gallagher Chiefs return to Tauranga to play a regular season game at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.
This will be the first time that a Super Rugby Pacific fixture is played at this sports ground, which has been largely used for cricket.
The Chiefs will face the Western Force in round 11 of the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific competition on April 25, kicking off at 7.05pm.
“I’m excited that our community will experience Super Rugby in Tauranga for the first time in over 10 years, inaugurally at the iconic Bay Oval,” Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale said in a statement on Wednesday.
The Gallagher Chiefs are to play the first ever Super Rugby Pacific game at Bay Oval. Photo / supplied
“We look forward to welcoming the Gallagher Chiefs and the Western Force to our city for what I’m sure will be a fantastic evening of rugby.”
The Chiefs Rugby Club have collaborated with the Bay Oval Trust, Tauranga City Council, and ticketing provider, Flicket to bring the match to Tauranga.
The statement said: “the Bay Oval is one of the most enjoyable grounds to watch cricket in New Zealand and will now provide a relaxed beachside vibe for fans to enjoy a Chiefs game.”
“It’s great to bring Super Rugby back to my home region and know that our fans will appreciate the opportunity to see the team play in their backyard at this premiere sports ground,” Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillian said.
Bay Oval Trust general manager Kelvin Jones said the venue was “excited” to host its first Super Rugby match and the Gallagher Chiefs.
“The game will highlight the versatility of the venue as a truly community asset.
“After two recent international T20 cricket sellouts, we look forward to seeing the embankments full for this match.”
Chiefs Rugby chief executive Simon Graafhuis said they were always conscious of trying to take games to regional communities.
“We are thrilled to be back in Tauranga.
Bay Oval. Photo / NZME
“It is an important part of the Chiefs region from a fan standpoint, and many of our commercial partners have a strong presence in the area, so are very supportive of this event to be held there.”
Being on Anzac Day adds to what will be a special occasion and will feature an Anzac service supported by the RSA in Mount Maunganui and Tauranga.
Cassie Henderson will sing the national anthem and perform at half-time.
Tickets for the Gallagher Chiefs games in the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season are on sale from January 23 here.
This regional game is not included in the Chiefs season long ticketed memberships for FMG Stadium home games.
