All Blacks great and perennial entertainer, Frank Bunce, will be joining the stellar panel of stars at this year's Tauranga Gala Dinner in September.

Held at ASB Arena on Friday, September 29, the annual Tauranga Gala Dinner will feature Bunce alongside All Blacks legend Andrew Mehrtens as special guest speakers, joining top sports pundit Scotty ‘Sumo' Stevenson and veteran sports broadcaster, John McBeth, onstage.

Gold Medalist Dick Tayler was originally due to appear at the event as well, but had to withdraw due to ill health.

Bunce rose to prominence in the early 90's, playing for Auckland then North Harbour.

His selection to the All Blacks didn't come till he was 30 years old, but he managed to stay in the side for 6 years, becoming one of the oldest test players in All Blacks' history.

Bunce made 55 test appearances, scoring 20 tries in the process.

He was part of the 1995 World Cup, and played in the famous final against South Africa; also featuring Mehrtens who scored the entirety of the All Blacks' points in the ill-fated match.

Prior to Bunce's announcement today, the event had already garnered huge interest, with the VIP Tables now sold out and only limited Premium Tables left.

There are still some Event Tables for ten available, however with the event continuing to add stars to the lineup, it is expected that demand will be high.

The Tauranga Gala Dinner is a spectacular 5-star event featuring insightful and entertaining discussion with the special guest speakers, 3-course meal, musical performances and a full evening of entertainment and hospitality.

There will also be a charity auction to raise funds for the local Bay of Plenty arm of CanTeen, who support young New Zealanders living with cancer.

You can purchase tables and find out more information at www.taurangagaladinner.co.nz