New Zealand will host some of the world's best ice hockey talent in June when the Ice Hockey Classic comes to town.
The Herald can confirm some of the National Hockey League's top talent have expressed interest in taking in the event, which will see the USA take on Canada in a three-match series.
Among those to have thrown their names into the ring include New York Rangers centre Peter Holland and Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Ian Cole, however their participation was dependant on compliance with their respective teams.
"They come to play for free to support what we're doing and to help grow the game," organiser Kerry Goulet explained. "But there will be NHL players coming down."
Cole's Blue Jackets were on the verge of securing a spot in the playoffs. With the Stanley Cup finals series set to be held in June, should the Blue Jackets make it, the two-time Stanley Cup champion will likely be unable to travel down under.