Rugby and resilience will be celebrated with a free concert, headlined by Ladyhawke, at this year’s Battle of the Bays between the Steamers and the Magpies.

The anticipation is building as the biggest rugby event on Hawke’s Bay’s calendar, the Battle of The Bays, prepares to shake the grounds of McLean Park on September 9.

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

The highly awaited clash between the Magpies and the Steamers is set to captivate thousands of passionate supporters from across the region, all vying for the prestigious title of "The Bay."

Beyond the field, this year's Battle of The Bays holds a profound significance.

It's not just about rugby; it's about rekindling the unity and resilience that emerged in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.

The devastating cyclone left Hawke's Bay battered, with an estimated $2 billion in damages and the region grappling to rebuild.

Just as the nation rallied together during that challenging time, this event offers an opportunity to revive that spirit of togetherness and support for Hawke's Bay.

To give local residents and rugby fans a great day out, One NZ, in partnership with Live Nation, has confirmed it is putting on a free, pre-match concert featuring the sensational Kiwi artist, Ladyhawke, headlining the stage.

Ladyhawke, known for her blend of new wave, indie rock, and electropop, is set to electrify the crowd with her hits "Paris Is Burning" and "My Delirium."

"Being raised in the Wairarapa I know how important community is, and how important these events are in celebrating that spirit of unity,” says Ladyhawke.

“So, I’m stoked and excited to be playing before the Battle of the Bays, and hope to see as many locals as possible take advantage of the free pre-show to get amped before the match.”

Celebrating the local community further, the concert will be opened by local group, Spitfire – a rising star in the music scene after their captivating performance at Rock Quest where they won Best Song.

“By providing a platform for local artists like Spitfire, One NZ reinforces its mission to uplift the community and enrich the cultural fabric of Hawke's Bay,” says a One NZ spokesperson.

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

Keeping the challenges faced by the community in mind, Hawke’s Bay transport company Tranzit Coachlines has sponsored three buses to pick up and drop off residents whose homes were red stickered during the cyclone, making it easier for them to get to the game.

"It’s awesome to see One NZ, Live Nation, and Tranzit Coachlines rally around us so generously,” says Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union (HBRU) Community Partnership Manager Jason Long.

“One NZ has our back and will be putting on an incredible experience that promises to be nothing short of epic.

"They have already shown their commitment to the region through their charity platform One Good Kiwi and having them put on a free concert is really the cherry on top. One NZ is more than just a sponsor; they are a true partner in our journey."