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The Heartland Classic - The Classics vs Poverty Bay

A poster for "THE HEARTLAND CLASSIC" rugby match, featuring several rugby players in red and black jerseys, holding balls, with team logos for Poverty Bay and The Classics.

Massive local rugby history is going down in Gisborne this July! Grab the whānau and check out the brand-new upgrades at Rugby Park for an epic day out.

A massive piece of local rugby history is officially going down in Gisborne this July! Grab the whānau and get ready to check out the brand-new upgrades at Rugby Park for an epic day out.

Tickets

25 July 2026
Rugby Park, Gisborne

Poverty Bay Rugby is officially unveiling its iconic, newly renovated grandstand, and they are throwing a massive community celebration to mark the milestone. This isn’t just about the new build—it’s about bringing the whole region together for a huge day of footy, live music, and pure community vibes.

The feature match of the day is shaping up to be an absolute thriller. The Poverty Bay Wekas are set to lace up and take on The Classics—a stacked team featuring former elite legends of the game like Waisake Naholo, Stephen Donald, Rene Ranger, and Lima Sopoaga. You already know the energy on the field is going to be massive!

Bring your mates, bring the kids, and bring the volume to welcome a new era for Gisborne rugby.

EVENT TIMELINE:

11:00am – Gates Open

12:00pm – Community Rippa Rugby Begins

2:15pm – Live Performance from Samantha Booth

2:35pm – Kick-off | Poverty Bay Wekas vs The Classics

TICKETS:

Adults (12+) are only $20, kids and seniors (65+) free entry!

Get your tickets here