Southland Sport
The Highlanders are set to face off against the Crusaders in a highly anticipated preseason clash at Rugby Park, Invercargill, on Waitangi Day (Thursday, 6th February). This will be the final warm-up match for the Highlanders ahead of their opening game in the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific competition.
This annual fixture between the South Island rivals alternates between the two regions and consistently delivers thrilling rugby. The Highlanders enter this match having secured victories in the last two exchanges between the two teams during the 2024 preseason and regular season encounters.
The Highlanders' major partner and front-of-jersey partner, SBS Bank, has played a key role in bringing this exciting fixture to Invercargill. As the match day partner, SBS Bank is thrilled to see the game take place at the home of Southland Rugby on our National day. Additional to bringing the game to Invercargill, SBS Bank will also shout all kids aged 12 and under free entry to the game (with a paying adult).
SBS Bank Chief Executive Mark McLean says SBS is excited to bring the special Waitangi Day match to Rugby Park in Invercargill.
“We know Southlanders look forward to the Super Rugby season and backing our home team, the Highlanders,” Mr McLean says.
“As the official bank of the Highlanders, SBS is right behind them too and we’re delighted to bring them home for a bonus pre-season game, creating an opportunity for fans to get up close to the action and show our Southland support.
“It will be a top week of sport for Invercargill, which will also be hosting the Burt Munro motorcycle racing event that week.”
Highlanders Head Coach Jamie Joseph is looking forward to the encounter:
“Playing a quality side like the Crusaders a week out from the competition is exactly what we need and fantastic that we are playing in Invercargill. A few of our players are passionate Stags and hopefully, given it’s a day off, we can get a roaring crowd along to support the team. They love their footy in Southland.”
Amanda Gould, Highlanders Marketing Manager, confirmed there would be an opportunity for the Southland fans to interact with the team, building on the region’s strong support for the Highlanders:
“We always look forward to connecting with our Southern fan base. Their passion for the Highlanders and rugby is well known, and we want to make the most of this preseason opportunity to really get out there and engage with them. Our preseason games against the Crusaders, hosted throughout the region, are always well-attended, and with this being our first-ever game on Waitangi Day, we expect a fantastic turnout from the Southland faithful!”
Game Details:
Preseason Match: Highlanders v Crusaders
Date and time: 2.30pm, Thursday 6 February 2.30pm
Location: Rugby Park Stadium, Invercargill
Tickets will be available to purchase from 14th December 2024.