A crowd estimated at 3000 has given the Ranfurly Shield-winning Southland rugby team a heroes' welcome in Invercargill.

Invercargill is preparing for the party to beat all parties, as the city's rugby heroes return with the Ranfurly Shield.

The Ranfurly Shield is a trophy that holds a special place in the hearts of rugby lovers in New Zealand.

Southland tackled their way into Ranfurly Shield rugby folklore with victory over Canterbury last night.

As All Blacks coach Graham Henry took aim at Wellington coach Jamie Joseph, his players said they couldn't wait to return to provincial rugby.