Hundreds of spectators gathered at Gisborne's Rugby Park for the Heartland Classic, where the Poverty Bay Weka took on the Classic All Blacks in an exhibition match celebrating the official opening of the upgraded John Heikell Grandstand.
The previous grandstand was closed in 2019 due to seismic issues, prompting the redevelopment of a modern, fit-for-purpose facility.
The redevelopment features a new 902-seat grandstand, upgraded player facilities, cultural design elements by artist Simon Lardelli, a new scoreboard and improved field drainage, helping Rugby Park better support local rugby and major events into the future.
A pōwhiri opened the event, with project partners, rugby players and community members gathered to celebrate the opening.
Some of New Zealand Rugby’s most recognisable former All Blacks, Māori All Blacks and All Blacks Sevens players, including, Rene Ranger and Waisake Naholo, took to the field.
“It was fantastic seeing the community come together for the Classics vs the Weka game after six years without being able to use the grandstand,” says Poverty Bay Rugby Football Union chief executive, Florian Bub.
“I want to acknowledge the people who helped get this project off the ground. There have been so many contractors, board members, staff and volunteers involved, and it was a real community effort to get the project completed.
“Seeing the grandstand full again was a fitting way to celebrate everyone who helped make it happen.”
Trust Tairāwhiti supported the grandstand redevelopment with just over $1.17m, building on an earlier $74k funding commitment for security fencing at Rugby Park.
The Trust also contributed $30k to support the Heartland Classic event.
Image credit: Poverty Bay Rugby Football Union