A star-studded New Zealand line up has signed up to come to Tauranga and give their support to Sir Colin ‘Pine Tree' Meads.

A tribute dinner is being organised to honour the All Blacks great at the ASB Arena in July, which the organisers are calling an ‘unprecedented' event for the city.

Sir Colin ‘Pine Tree' Meads.

The event is aptly titled ‘A Tribute to Sir Colin Meads'.

It is in recognition of the amount of support Sir Colin has given to the Tauranga and Bay of Plenty communities.

Events Innovated, who are organising the event, thought it was about time there was a celebration where the region could pay their thanks and respects to the Kiwi icon.

Some very prominent people agreed, and the guest list lining up to pay tribute to Meads is impressive.

All-time greats, renowned broadcasters and admired personalities such as Sir Brian Lochore, Andrew Mehrtens, Keith Quinn, Jamie Mackay, Dick Tayler, Peter Williams and Peter ‘Blackie' Blackwell will share their memories, anecdotes and stories in a celebration of his life and career.

Events Innovated director, Heath Ingham, says everyone's interest and enthusiasm for the event speaks volumes of Meads.

'Everyone we've talked to about this event has jumped on board straight away,” explains Heath. 'Hands down, they've instantly said yes, no questions.

'This is the standing that Sir Colin has. He's hugely respected and one of our greatest living legends.

'Mehrtens is coming across from Australia for it. We've got very special guests from all around the country coming and invites have gone out to some really high profile people. 'This is the level of celebration Meads deserves.”

Guests will enjoy fine food, wine, entertainment and witness the guest speakers give their gratitude, respect and admiration to Sir Colin.

Ingham says it is a way to say thanks to someone who has given a lot to the region.

'The night is to primarily give thanks to a man who has supported our region so much,” adds Heath.

'I've seen it first hand for many years at the annual CIB Police Auction. He's helped many organisations and charities here.

'He's always giving his time for nothing in return. And let's not forget he's one of our greatest sporting heroes ever.

'He is one very extraordinary kiwi bloke who is an amazing icon for our country and it's about time we said thanks. It's going to be an amazing and very special night.”

The night will feature renowned broadcaster Peter Williams acting as MC and interviewing Sir Colin, as well as providing a question and answer session with the audience.

There will also be an auction in support of Sir Colin's favourite charities, featuring exclusive Meads memorabilia

The event will be held on Friday, July 31, at ASB Arena in Tauranga. Tables of 10 range in price from $1390 to $3190 for VIP options. Single seats are available for $139.

All tables and tickets can be purchased from: www.sircolin.co.nz, or email: [email protected]