Tauranga Hockey is auctioning the opportunity to be the official flag bearer for the Black Sticks in their series against Japan in two weeks.

An online auction will give three people the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead the New Zealand team onto the field for each of the three matches.

Tauranga Hockey general manager Clyde du Toit and Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby wave the flags used to open the series.

'This is an experience three people will remember forever and we are really hoping that locals will win it,” says Tauranga Hockey general manager Clyde du Toit.

'When you come to a game of international hockey, you always get the chance to be up close to the action, but to be in the dug-out and walk out with the players is at another level.”

The Black Sticks Men are taking on Japan in a three test summer series from 12-15 March at Blake Park in Mount Maunganui.

The practice sessions on Monday, March 10 and Tuesday, Wednesday before the matches are open and players will be available for autographs afterwards, says Clyde.

Tournament passes are selling online for under $30, with students priced at $22. All those who buy the early-bird option for tickets will go in the draw to win a Kookaburra hockey stick.

'We have really tried to keep the prices down for children and families,” says Clyde.

'It's just exciting for the community to have international hockey down here, is always good.”

On March 10 the Black Sticks will be practising from 2-4pm, Japan from 4-6pm, and the Black Sticks from 7-8pm.

Tuesday, March 11 Japan is practising from 9.30-11.30am, Black Sticks from 3-5pm and Japan 4-6pm. Wednesday is reduced to one session for each tea. Japan from 9.30 – 11am, Black Sticks from10-11am. Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby says the international series is a sign of the confidence Hockey New Zealand has with the Tauranga Hockey Association – and an endorsement of the community support that has made the two new turfs possible.

'It's coming together,” says Stuart.

'The upgrade was made possible through the generous support of TECT, NZCT, The Lion Foundation, Pub Charity, NZ Lottery and the local community.

'It's great to see this project come to fruition with the first international match between New Zealand and Japan being held in March.

'This is a great opportunity for people to see international standard hockey in Tauranga. The games will also provide an economic boost to the city through the visiting fans and teams.”

View the auction here.

All proceeds go to Tauranga Hockey Association for the future development of hockey in the community.

Black Sticks Men vs Japan - three test summer series Mount Maunganui.

7pm - Wednesday 12 March

7pm - Thursday 13 March

2pm - Saturday 15 March

Where: Tauranga Hockey Association, Blake Park, Kawaka Street