What's On: Bayleys National Sevens

SUPER SEVENS: Even the team mascots got involved at the national sevens competition in Rotorua last year.

WHAT: Bayleys National 7s
WHERE: Rotorua International Stadium
WHEN: Saturday, January 17 and Sunday, January 18 from 10am
HOW MUCH: Adult $15, child $5, family of four (two adults, two children) $35

WHERE can you get two full-on days of family fun and entertainment for less than $100?

The Bayleys National Sevens is where - a family ticket is just $35 for each day.

New Zealand's top sevens tournament is back in Rotorua for a second year and organisers are laying on a range of entertainment to complement the on-field action.

New Zealand's top provincial teams will compete at the weekend to be named national champions - last year Wellington took the men's title and Manawatu the women's.

As well as more than 70 games across two fields, there will also be a family zone, food and drink, plus mascot races.

Bayleys National Sevens event organiser Allison Stewart said there was a place for everyone, from families through to hardcore supporters of the provinces.

They are expecting coach-loads from Taranaki, the Waikato and further afield, and they want locals to get involved too.

"We've got a family zone. There'll be a bouncy castle, mask-making, face-painting, giant games such as swingball and chess," she said.

"There's something for everyone. Sit in the shade with a cool drink on Field 2 or soak up the sun on Field 1."

As well as the qualifying and finals games there will be a past versus present match following the opening ceremony tomorrow afternoon. Players already confirmed for that match are DJ Forbes, Liam Messam, Rico Gear and Dallas Seymour.

"The guys are more than happy to do photos and give autographs later in the afternoon," Mrs Stewart said.

"It's going to be an exciting weekend. It's the national sevens tournament but it can be enjoyed by everyone. We'd love to see the stadium full. It creates a cool atmosphere."

No alcohol or commercial food is allowed in the stadium, but picnics will be permitted. There will be food and drinks available to buy.

Gates open at 9.30am for a 10am start. The official opening ceremony is at 2pm tomorrow.