Rugby: Union boss hopeful of ITM games in Rotorua

Mike Rogers

The CEO of Bay of Plenty Rugby Union has said he cannot yet confirm whether any Steamers ITM Cup matches will be held in Rotorua this winter, although he hopes there will be.

Speaking to the Rotorua Daily Post following the announcement of this year's cup draw, Mike Rogers stressed that selecting venues to host matches was a complex process.

Issues such as financial returns, commercial partnerships, logistics and team preferences all needed to be taken into account, he said,

When making decisions about what venues would host games, BOP Rugby Union had to honour its commitment to sharing access throughout the region, Rogers said.

"We're in the unique position where we have a couple of different venues suitable for hosting ITM games ... it's about trying to get a balanced approach."

When asked about the likelihood of Rotorua hosting any cup matches, Rogers expressed his support for the notion without assessing its chances.

"I hope [there will be]. There is a strong rugby playing population in Rotorua."

Rogers said he believed the scheduling should be finalised in the next week or so.

Last season Rotorua International Stadium hosted two Steamers matches in the ITM Cup, against teams from North Harbour and Auckland.

Destination Rotorua's Events and Venues general manager Peter McLeod said since the draw had just been announced, he had not yet heard which of the matches could be scheduled for a Rotorua venue.

He said Rotorua usually hosted two ITM Cup games each season and he was looking forward to having those discussions with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

"I know Rotorua rugby fans will be looking forward to again hosting ITM cup games and the opportunity to support the Steamers."