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With just three weeks to go until the Manu Samoa v Flying Fijians clash at Rotorua International Stadium, the city’s business community is making sure this match is more than just rugby.
From handcrafted taonga to fan zone giveaways and world-famous hospitality, local partners are stepping up to create a day that celebrates Pacific culture, community pride and the connections that run across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa.
“It’s great to see local businesses get behind an event rooted in Pacific culture, from the taonga on display to the way the community is welcomed,” says RotoruaNZ head of commercial Sam Hulton. “Their support ensures the day reflects the people it’s for, both on the field and in how we come together to celebrate it.”
Leading the cultural offering is Mountain Jade, unveiling Ngā Tamariki o Tangaroa – The Children of Tangaroa, a collection of 21 pounamu artworks crafted by seven artists. Each piece tells a story of the Pacific Ocean as lifeblood and guardian, and one will be gifted to the Samoan captain during the team’s visit. The rest will be displayed and available in Mountain Jade stores.
“Ngā Tamariki o Tangaroa is our aroha to the Pacific whānau, a recognition that the ocean binds us,” says Mountain Jade CEO Aaron Randell. “By gifting a taonga to Samoa, we’re sharing the mana of Aotearoa and the stories carried by the tides that connect us all.”
On match day, Ebbett Rotorua will roll into the fan zone with a brand-new BYD Shark Ute packed full of rugby balls. Fans can guess how many are inside to win a hamper, and after full-time every ball will be donated to local schools and clubs across Rotorua.
“At Ebbett Rotorua, we’re proud to support events that bring our community together,” says dealer principal Willem Pieterse. “Sponsoring the Samoa vs Fiji rugby game is more than just supporting sport – it’s about celebrating culture, unity, and the incredible people of Rotorua. We’re fully committed to backing local initiatives that enrich our region and make it a better place to live, work, and play. Supporting Rotorua isn’t just part of what we do, it’s who we are.”
Polynesian Spa is bringing its signature manaakitanga to both the players and the fans. As part of a cultural exchange blending wellness and hospitality, they will host players for a restorative soak in their world-famous geothermal pools, an experience that reflects Rotorua’s unique sense of place. And for supporters, they’re launching an exclusive competition offering the ultimate match-and-wellness experience:
Two winners will receive VIP seats at a hosted table for the game, accommodation in a deluxe Millennium Hotel room with breakfast, and a full Sunday wellness stay at Polynesian Spa – including spa therapies, deluxe Lake Spa soaking, platters with bubbles, and a take-home Rachel Signature spa range, valued at $1700.
“Celebrating more than half a century in operation, Polynesian Spa continues to embrace Rotorua’s natural geothermal vitality – where relaxing warmth meets mindful community connection. It’s a pleasure to be part of the energy that this match brings,” says Polynesian Spa CEO Gert Taljaard.
This is a rare chance for Rotorua to host a fixture of this calibre – one that brings together world-class sport and the stories, cultures and people that make this city unique.
Samoa v Fiji kicks off at 3pm, Saturday, September 6, at Rotorua International Stadium.
Tickets are $20 and available now through Ticketmaster.
