What's on: Warriors tune-up for season

The Warriors take on the Penrith Panthers in Rotorua tomorrow. Photo / File

Love rugby league? The Rotorua International Stadium is where all the action is, with a regional nines tournament, kids' activities and the main drawcard - the Vodafone Warriors v Penrith Panthers.

The Rugby League Festival got under way last night at the Rotorua Night Market and continues today and tomorrow with on-field action.

Today sees the start of a Waicoa nines tournament involving teams from the Waikato and Coastlands areas.

The matches continue tomorrow, with the nines final the curtain-raiser to the final NRL pre-season fixture of 2015.

Events and Venues Rotorua general manager Peter McLeod, also the first Warriors chairman, said it was a great opportunity for NRL fans to see their heroes in action.

"We've had them twice before and they're unbeaten so we're looking forward to seeing if they can retain that record," he said.

"There are Warriors connections with coaching and playing staff at Penrith, so there will be that extra edge. The good thing is that for both sides, this is the last major trial before the season starts, so they'll be turning out top sides, including State of Origin players.

"It's a rare opportunity for people in Rotorua to see football at this level."

Tickets are selling well, Mr McLeod said, and organisers hoped to see around 8000 people in the stadium for tomorrow's main game.

This time, they've introduced a family pass which includes up to three children, instead of two.

A helicopter is delivering the match ball and there will be a kids' activity area set up.

"The best thing is seeing people enjoying themselves," Mr McLeod said.

Gates open tomorrow at 10am.

Details
What: Vodafone Warriors v Penrith Panthers
When: Tomorrow, 3pm kickoff
Where: Rotorua International Stadium
How Much: Adult $20, child $7.50, family pass $45 (two adults, three children). Corporate Lounge: $70 per person, includes food service and cash bar. Tickets available from Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre and Ticketmaster online.