Hurricanes to return to PN to play Melbourne Rebels
Super Rugby is coming back to Palmerston North when the Hurricanes host the Melbourne Rebels in the city next year.
The Hurricanes played the Western Force at the Arena in Palmerston North earlier this year, the first Super Rugby game in the city in four years, and now they will play the Rebels at 7.05pm on Friday, March 22.
The round-five fixture doubles as Kids Round, celebrating the up-and-coming generation of players, pundits and supporters.
Fans turned out in droves for this year’s match, and Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee said he hoped to see that again.
“We are delighted to be heading back to Palmerston North for the second time in two years. Connecting with the wider Hurricanes region is important to us, and the Manawatū community were brilliant in uniting behind the Hurricanes and the event.
“We are confident that will happen again, especially with the number of Manawatū players in our squad. It should be an exciting day.”
Manawatū chief executive Andrea Jackson was thrilled that the Hurricanes would return.
“It’s a testament to the strong relationship between Manawatū rugby and the Hurricanes, as well as the great support for the Hurricanes within our community,” Jackson said.
“People in our province are proud of the fact we hosted the first Super Rugby game back in 1996, so it’s always a big deal when the Hurricanes come back.
“We are pleased to give the passionate rugby fans in the Manawatū the opportunity to see the Hurricanes in action and cheer on our local players in the team.”
Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith was equally excited.
“We were thrilled to be able to host the Hurricanes-Western Force match this year, and it’s fantastic that the Hurricanes have decided to return in 2024,” he said.
“Our Central Energy Trust Arena is a world-class regional sporting facility that is geared up to host significant events just like this. It’s perfect for welcoming the wider Palmy public and those in wider central New Zealand who will come out to support our Hurricanes, which also features a few of our local Manawatū boys.”
Hurricanes loose forward and Manawatū Turbos captain Brayden Iose said there was nothing like a home game “at home”.
“For me, it’s a special feeling to run out in a Hurricanes jersey and play in front of a home crowd in Palmerston North.
“It was an incredible atmosphere at this year’s game against the Force, so we hope it all happens again in front of a packed crowd on March 22.”
Pre-sale tickets will be available in December.