Start your day off right when the Bay of Plenty Steamers take on the Waikato Mooloos at Tauranga Domain on August 30.

Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Rugby Union are partnering up for ‘Fans in Town' – a unique initiative that looks to bring both teams' fans into town ahead of the ITM Cup fixture.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers take on the Waikato Mooloos at the Tauranga Domain on Sunday, August 30. Photo: Tracy Hardy.

Steamers and Mooloos supporters can start their day off with lunch at one of the many restaurants in town while enjoying entertainment in the ‘fan zones' on Wharf Street and The Strand, from 11am to 2.30pm.

Mayor Stuart Crosby says the council is proud to be involved in bringing back the ITM Cup to the Tauranga Domain.

'The Domain is a fantastic downtown facility and is ideally located to make the most of Tauranga's exciting dining scene,” says Stuart.

'I encourage everyone going to the game to make a full day of it and really get into the spirit of this great event.”

Fans can get their faces painted in their team colours and watch performances from Tauranga Samba, the Bay Twisters and the Highland Band as they soak up the atmosphere.

The main routes to the Domain will also be alive with entertainment for fans to enjoy as they make their way to the Domain for the 2.35pm kick off.

The game is expected to finish at around 4pm and all supporters will be invited to end the day with a relaxing evening out at one of the city's many dining options.

Strategic Events manager Pip Loader says events like the upcoming ITM Cup match showcase Tauranga's variety of places and spaces, while adding to the vibrancy of the city.

'This event will create a real buzz in town, and we know the fans will enjoy soaking up the atmosphere,” says Pip.

'We appreciate that Tauranga's hospitality industry is highly involved and motivated to create an all-day fan experience in downtown Tauranga.”

‘Fans in Town' is a partnership between Tauranga City Council, Bay of Plenty Rugby, Downtown Tauranga and the Waterfront Hospitality Partners.

Business in and around The Strand will be taking part in the organised festivities by offering deals, giveaways and activities to make the day a memorable one for families and supporters.

Parking in Tauranga is also free on Sundays and both Elizabeth and Spring Street Car Park buildings will be open for free parking on Sunday, August 30, from 9am–9pm.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers take on the Waikato Mooloos at Tauranga Domain on Sunday, August 30. Kick-off is at 2.35pm. For more information, or to buy tickets, visit Tauranga City Council's website at: www.tauranga.govt.nz/ITMCup