Super Rugby Aupiki: Matatū chase record crowd as One NZ Stadium Te Kaha sellout streak continues

And they want the sellouts to continue.

The stadium has been packed out so far. Photo / Photosport

“What happens when people believe in the power of community, when they support Matatū to achieve great things, and when they rally our girls to make history, that’s what’s important to this group,” Matatū head coach Blair Baxter said.

“We can’t do this without our people, and we would love to have them behind us to kick off our campaign the right way.”

The 4.05pm kickoff will make it viable for the next generation of players to attend.

Matatū loose forward Grace Brooker in action for the Black Ferns against England in 2021. Photo / Photosport

“When our young fans come along, it shows them what you can achieve if you commit to something and chase your goals. It gives them role models they can connect with, and moments they can hold on to. This could be the day that sparks something for the next generation,” Matatū captain Grace Brooker said.

“You never know what one game can mean. It could be the moment someone starts believing in themselves.”

Matatū teammates celebrate Kaea Nepia’s try during the Super Rugby Aupiki rugby match against the Hurricanes Poua at Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch in 2025. Photo / Photosport

The South Island franchise won the title in 2023 and were edged in a thrilling final by the Blues at Eden Park last season. They’ll have six current Black Ferns to call on across the short season.

Matatū general manager Sarah Munro says the team hope the city rallies behind their wāhine in the same way it has for rugby in the past.

“The Crusaders have sold out One New Zealand Stadium five times in a row this season. Imagine what it would mean to see that same energy and support behind our team, to make history together at our new home and show these athletes just how much their region is behind them,” Munro said.

Matatū are hoping to plug into the wave of support shown for the Crusaders since the new stadium opened. Photo / Photosport

Notwithstanding the possibility of the Super Rugby Aupiki final being held at One NZ Stadium, this will be the only game that Matatū will play there this season. Their remaining two home games are scheduled for Fraser Park in Timaru and Ngā Puna Wai in Christchurch.

Ticketing has been designed to make the day accessible for families and range from $20 for adults to $5 for kids. Under-5s are free. Family passes are $40 and cover two adults and two children.

Mike Thorpe is a senior multimedia journalist for the Herald, based in Christchurch. He has been a broadcast journalist across television and radio for 20 years and joined the Herald in August 2024.