Fans can meet and greet Mate Ma'a Tonga when they arrive in Auckland, at a special event at the Manukau’s Vodafone Events Centre on Wednesday, 10 October.
The Tongan rugby league team will head straight to the Vodafone Events Centre to connect with local fans before departing for their training camp.
Mate Ma'a Tonga play the Kangaroos at Mt Smart Stadium over Labour Weekend.
The team will appear at the Vodafone Events Centre, to be welcomed to Auckland, meet fans and chat about the challenge ahead, from 5.30 – 6.30pm on Wednesday, 10 October.
Auckland Councillor Alf Filipaina says the official fan events are great opportunities for fans and families to show their support for Mate Ma’a Tonga ahead of their clash with Australia.
“Bring that MMT passion to Manukau’s Vodafone Events Centre and show the team a sea of red there to welcome them to Tāmaki Makaurau. We want to show our support for the team, but let’s do it in a way that’s respectful in a family friendly environment."
The welcome event is free and open to all ages. Parking at Vodafone Events Centre will be free for fans attending the team welcome.
Bags will be checked upon entry; flags and banners are welcome; poles for flags or banners must be 1m or shorter and NOT metal.
A second opportunity to meet the team takes place at Mt Smart Stadium on Wednesday, 17 October from 3.30pm – 5.30pm.
Mate Ma'a Tonga Fan Day, at Mt Smart Stadium, will include the opportunity to watch the players train, interviews with coach and players, and an opportunity for the team to meet fans. It is free to attend and open to all ages.
Key information:
- Mate Ma'a Tonga Auckland Welcome, Vodafone Events Centre, Manukau, 5.30pm – 6.30pm, free (subject to on-time flight arrival and transfer from airport)
- Mate Ma'a Tonga Fan Day, Mt Smart Stadium, 3.30pm – 5:30pm
- Tonga vs Australia, Mt Smart Stadium, Saturday, 20 October, gates open 6pm
Please note, there will be no public opportunity to connect with the team at Auckland Airport as the team will be heading directly to the official Team Welcome.
Media are welcome to cover the events.