Chiefs enjoy getting out to regional fans

The 2012 Super Rugby champions the Chiefs will again play their only home preseason match in Taupo next year.

They will take on the Highlanders in their opening trial game at Owen Delany Park at 3pm on Saturday, February 2.

That will be followed by away matches against the Reds at Stockland Stadium on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland on Friday, February 8, and the Hurricanes at Mangatainoka on Saturday, February 16.

The Chiefs then open their 2013 Super Rugby campaign away to the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin on Friday, February 22.

Head coach Dave Rennie said the Taupo game was a key part of the Chiefs inter- acting with their fans in the region and it was a prime opportunity for families to bring picnics and watch the Super Rugby champions in action.

‘‘It is important to the Chiefs’ family to remain connected to our community,’’ Rennie said.

The Chiefs are also playing two of their competition home games outside of Hamilton against the Blues on Easter Saturday, March 30, at Baypark Stadium in Mt Maunganui and the fixture against the Western Force at ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe, on Saturday, May 10.

Prices for the Taupo match start at $15 for general admission with children 14 and under free on the day. Grandstand seating is $25 and is on a first-in, first-served basis.