Rugby Festival Kicks Off in Clive

Wednesday, 14 September 2011, 3:58 pm
Press Release: Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Inc

14 September 2011

Rugby Festival Kicks Off in Clive

Clive is set to play host to the Rugby Haka and Hangi Festival when it is mounted in the region by Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi on Saturday 17 September. The free event is part of the Hastings Blossom Festival and the nationwide REAL NZ Festival.

“We’re thrilled to host this event in Clive during the Rugby World Cup tournament”, said Tom Mulligan, lifetime member of the Clive Rugby Club and Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi liaison for the festival.

“We’re grateful to the REAL NZ Festival for providing $10,000 grant for our event at Farndon Park in Clive”, said Tom. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for overseas visitors to sample the atmosphere, food and passion of a local rugby gathering.”

Since 1888 Clive Rugby Club has produced some of Hawke’s Bay’s outstanding rugby players. The club’s rugby grounds are the oldest in New Zealand.
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Clive Rugby Club is hosting the event with Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi and have called on locals and visitors from around the world to take part in an unforgettable experience both on and off the pitch in a festival of friendship.

There’s a Rippa rugby game with teams representing France and Canada and the main game is between Clive Rugby Club and a World Team. Rippa rugby starts at 4pm and the main game will kick off at 5.00pm.

Entertainment on the field of play includes 100 plus strong haka led by Te Rerenga Kotuku kappa haka from Wairoa, Susan Rose and 50 voice karaoke choir, Burlington Guards National Marching Champions, 20 drummers from Tauranga Samba and the New Zealand aerobatics champion Andrew Stiver.

Festival goers showing ‘team spirit’ can win prize draws during the day by wearing a rugby jersey, socks, headgear or face paint.

Food stalls will provide a variety of country fare including a traditional hangi.

The public are invited to join players for a social gathering after the game in the Clive Clubrooms and enjoy performances by Red Thunder Dancers from Canada and a piano accordion duo from France.

Main Points

• Free entry, Free off-street parking in Farndon Park, Free kiddies rides
• 4pm to 7pm, Saturday 17 September, Clive Rugby Club, Farndon Park, Clive
• Rugby games for all ages
• International entertainment from France and Canada

www.rugbyhakaco.nz

ENDS

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