We’re heading to a sold-out Bay Oval this Friday 25 April as the Gallagher Chiefs take on the Western Force in the first-ever Super Rugby Pacific match at this iconic venue.
Let’s make it a night to remember. Wear your colours, bring your voice, and back the Chiefs all the way! Read on for everything you need to know to have an epic night.
🕒 Game Day Timings
- Gates Open: 5:30 PM
- ANZAC Flyover: 5:45 PM
- ANZAC Commemoration: 5:55 PM
- Kick-Off: 7:05 PM
- Half-time performance by Cassie Henderson: 7:50 PM
🎤 Entertainment & Pre-Game
Match day sponsor Tauranga Crossing is helping set the stage for a true celebration of rugby, with live music from Cassie Henderson, local food trucks, giveaways, and on-field activations.
There will also be a pre-game ANZAC service supported by the RSA and a flyover of historic Yak-52 planes.
- ✈️ 5:45 PM – ANZAC flyover of two historic Yak-52 fighter planes. Look towards the Mount for their arrival with multiple passes by the stadium.
- 🥇 5:44 PM – ANZAC commemoration service with local Returned Services Association (RSA).
- 🏉 7:05 PM – Kick-off.
✅ What You Can Bring
- Sealed water bottles (up to 1L) or an empty drink bottle to refill inside.
- Small amounts of homemade food for your own consumption.
- Soft chilly bags (max size 350mm x 300mm x 400mm).
- Guide dogs or assistance animals are welcome.
- Prams/strollers (only in designated areas – limited space available).
- Collapsible umbrellas smaller than a golf umbrella may be allowed (as long as they don’t block anyone’s view.)
- Deck chairs or low-profile seats may be allowed on the embankment. The base of the seat must be no higher than 300mm from the ground and no wider than 600mm. You may be asked to take your chair down if it’s blocking the view of others.
❌ What Not to Bring
- Alcohol (unless purchased inside the venue)
- Glass bottles, thermoses, aerosol cans, or breakable containers
- Fast food or commercial takeaways
- Knives, weapons, flares, fireworks, or laser pointers
- Pets (except assistance animals)
- Skateboards, scooters, bikes, or beach wagons
- Professional photography/video gear (including large zoom lenses or tripods)
- Sound devices like air horns or loudhailers
- Inflatable chairs or beanbags
- Large flags, banners, or any items deemed unsafe by event staff
More info here: Bay Oval Conditions of Entry
🚗 Getting There
Entry: All ticket holders enter via Gate 1 (Kawaka St)
Parking: On-street parking is available around the Bay Oval, including Maunganui Road, Totora Street, Hull Road, Tawa Street, Miro Street and side streets. Public car parks are also available on the corner of Hull Road & Maunganui Rd and at Club Mount Maunganui on the corner of Tawa & Kawaka Streets. When attending events, parking on the nearby streets may be limited, so we encourage you to arrive early.
Public Transport: Catch the Bayhopper (Routes 1 or 2), both stop near Bay Oval, with the closest bus stops just a short walk on Maunganui Road and Totara Street. Check the Baybus website for schedules and updates.
