Fans are swooping to secure their free tickets to the Hawke's Bay Magpies and Bay of Plenty Steamers match following their release at 9am on Monday.

Over 8000 tickets are already allocated for the match at 4.35pm on Saturday September 9 with a capacity crowd expected to turn out for the charity event.

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

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

Fans can secure their tickets by visiting the www.hbmagpies.co.nz website and with lots of competitions and giveaways it will be an event not to be missed.

HBRU Commercial Manager Dan Somerville is thrilled to see 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.

“We encourage everyone to secure their tickets asap to avoid missing out and to be there to cheer the boys on."

The Magpies have won their first three home games and will be keen to put in a strong performance in front of their home fans against their rivals for the right to call themselves ‘The Bay’ for 2023.

This game also sees both teams contest the MacRae-Shelford Bay Cup which is currently held by the Steamers, and will see the Magpies eager to help return this to what they says is its rightful home in Napier.  

In 2022, the Bay of Plenty Steamers beat the Hawke’s Bay Magpies 20-14 in their clash at Tauranga Domain.