The Waikato-based side was popular then but will be an even bigger attraction next year as they are the defending Super rugby champions.
And that practically guarantees a repeat of the capacity crowd which watched the Hurricanes take on the mighty Crusaders in the Tui-sponsored "friendly" last February.
Hurricanes head coach Mark Hammett has already gone on record about returning to Mangatainoka.
"We can't wait to get back there next year ... there is a real sense of rugby community up there," Hammett said. "It's great we can be involved with grassroots rugby and to take this game to the heart of Hurricanes territory. Playing the Chiefs will be a fantastic match. As defending champs, they will be fierce competitors and will help prepare our team for another big season ahead."
The Hurricanes and Chiefs have named their squads for their 2013 Super campaigns and most big names are expected to have some game time at Mangatainoka.
All Black Conrad Smith is again captaining the Canes and will have players of the calibre of Dane Coles, Ben Franks, Beauden Barrett, Cory Jane, TJ Penenara, Julian and Ardie Savea and Andre Taylor in support.
A man with close Wairarapa-Bush connections in Craig Clarke is sure to be an integral part of the Chiefs pack along with Sam Cane, Hika Elliott, Tanerau Latimer, Brodie Retallick and Liam Messam while Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Aaron Cruden, Richard Kahui and Lelia Masaga are part of a star-studded backline.
Tickets for the February 16 match are available from Tui HQ, PGG Wrightson stores in the lower North Island, the Palmerston North i-Site or via www.tui.co.nz
