The Waikato Bay of Plenty Avis Magic will return to Rotorua for a pre-season game against the Stars on Friday 27 February, after a successful Rotorua fixture last season.
The game will be played at the Energy Events Centre in Rotorua, with centre pass at 6pm, giving fans an early look at both teams ahead of the ANZ Premiership season.
The day will begin with a community-focused morning, with Magic players providing a skills programme at the Energy Events Centre. Rotorua Netball are sending the invitations to secondary schools to connect with students and support netball participation across the region.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said it was exciting to welcome Avis Magic back after the strong response from the community last year.
“Last year’s game was a huge success and the atmosphere inside the Energy Events Centre was incredible. A full house shows just how much Rotorua loves hosting top-level netball,” Tapsell said.
“We had great feedback from local schools after last year’s visit, so I know they’ll be thrilled to see the community day return. For students, having the chance to meet the players in the morning and then watch them compete at a professional level later that day is a powerful example of what’s possible. It’s great to see Magic returning and bringing that experience back to our city.”
Magic Commercial Manager Sheryl Dawson said Rotorua had proven to be a strong home for pre-season netball and acknowledged the support behind the community programme.
“The support we received last year exceeded expectations, and we’re thrilled to be back,” Dawson said.
“We’re grateful to the Rotorua Trust for their support of the community event, which allows our players to spend meaningful time with local secondary school players and inspire young people through netball. That connection is just as important to us as what happens on court.”
Tickets for the pre-season match are priced at $15 for ages 12 and over, and $5 for under 12s, making it an affordable option for families and netball fans.
The teams will meet again on 19 March, when the Stars host the Waikato Bay of Plenty Avis Magic at Pullman Arena in Auckland.
Tickets can be found via Ticketmaster.
