Council backing for Hawke's Bay premier rugby bid

Hastings District Council will underwrite Hawke's Bay Rugby Union's premier division bid on the condition that half the players stay in the city.

The council yesterday agreed to underwrite the $2 million bid, which the union claims will pump $35 million into the region over three years, but declined providing $100,000 in cash.

If any of the money is required, the council will call on this financial year's reserves and ask the union to pay it back over three years, interest free.

It included the proviso that half the rugby players stay in Hastings when playing at McLean Park in Napier.

The council will discuss its position with Napier City Council on March 4.

- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY