Fans will have to get in quick to secure stand tickets for the much-anticipated Battle of the Bays match between the Hawkes Bay Magpies and Bay of Plenty Steamers on Saturday September 9.

Hawkes Bay Rugby with support from match sponsor One NZ will allow free entry to public which will see the biggest rugby crowd in recent history converge on McLean Park.

The event is designed to support Hawkes Bay, particularly residents who have been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and organisations who have been key in response and recovery.

HBRU Commercial Manager Dan Somerville is looking forward to a massive up take of tickets

“It’s awesome that we have been able to open the gates for free as a small way to support our community and thank all those who have gone above and beyond during and since Cyclone Gabrielle."

Hawkes Bay Rugby have been working with local councils to enable the most affected people to access tickets prior to public release at 9am Monday August 21.

“Thanks to all local councils for distributing tickets and helping us provide an opportunity for affected persons to secure their seats, there has been a fantastic response and we are looking forward to releasing the remaining tickets to general public and seeing a packed McLean Park."

Alongside this event Hawkes Bay Rugby has established the Hawkes Bay Rugby Community Support Trust and with the help of One NZ are working on a nationwide fundraising campaign where the Hawkes Bay residents will have the ability to apply for the proceeds to support cyclone recovery efforts and money can be distributed directly to affected people.  

Tickets will be available via https://hbmagpies.flicket.co.nz/ from 9am Monday August 21.

Kick-off for the Battle of the Bays match between the Magpies and the Steameris at 4.35pm on Sunday September 9 at McLean Park.