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The PIC Steelers’ first home game in post-lockdown Auckland is set to get underway at Navigation Homes Stadium this Sunday when Julian Savea and the Wellington Lions come to town.

With former All Blacks skipper Kieran Read set to take the field alongside local stars like Etene Nanai-Seturo and Sione Molia on a day when the late, great Jonah Lomu is honoured, there’s every reason for fans to get to Puke.

The match, which gets underway at 2:05pm, doubles as a celebration of Auckland returning to level 1, creating the opportunity for local rugby fans to turn up and enjoy live sport and entertainment together as a community.

On the field, the contest against a star-studded Lions team is expected to be an explosive one. And off it, fans and members can expect plenty to keep them entertained, with the introduction of two resident goats one of the more interesting features of an enhanced game day experience.

Kids and adults alike can get amongst the action with our 18ft Screamer Slide and Gladiator activity from CLM, and an on-field activity at half time set up by new partners Auckland Transport which will see six dedicated fans complete an activity course wearing “Beer Goggles”, which mimic the effects of alcohol and show how drinking can change depth perception and reaction times.

It’s a real community affair, with the RSA Franklin Pipe Band performing field side pre-game, live music from Michael Anderson in the top carpark, and our junior club players running out with the Steelers right before kick-off.

Read below to find out everything you need to know about what’s happening this Sunday:

KEY TIMINGS:

Gates open: 11:00am

Counties Manukau Bayleys B’s v Auckland Academy Curtain Raiser match: 11:30am

Michael Anderson live solo artist (Gate B): 1:00pm

Face painting with the Counties Power Heat: 1:00pm

CLM Screamer Slide & Gladiator Activity: from 1:00pm

Performance from RSA Franklin Pipe Band: 1:30pm

PIC Steelers v Wellington Lions: 2:05pm

Steely Dan handing out ice blocks 2:15pm

Auckland Transport Beer Googles Entertainment: 2:45pm

After party in the Phil Kingsley Jones Lounge: 3:30pm

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON GAME DAY:

Merchandise – Now that we are in level 1, our Counties Manukau Merchandise store will be open for game day! 10% off for Season Members by showing your Season Member card

Barfoot & Thompson – Win yourself the best seats house with the Barfoot & Thompson sideline experience. You will be fed, watered and looked after from your own private fieldside trailer, fit with all of the comforts of home. Cosy, comfy seats and your own televisions for live replay action, it really is the place to be! You could also be in for a chance to have your rent or mortgage paid for a year!

GOATS…  – Navigation Homes Stadium is now home to two goats, who reside on our infamous grass embankment. Make sure to get up close and personal with our furry friends

Auckland Transport – Come visit the team at the Auckland Transport tent to see what drunk eyes really look like sober when you try on their Beer goggles. You can also snap a picture at the photo station and test your road safety knowledge

CLM inflatables – The 18ft screamer slide and gladiator challenge are a favourite among young and old. Come see Tom and the team from CLM from 1:00pm, you might even get on TV!

Mai FM – The Mai Street Crew are onsite giving you the chance to win prizes with the Mai Lockbox. Be in to win a double pass with Corporate Hosting for the next home game against Southland

Phil Kingsley Jones Lounge – Our main lounge will be opened to all post-match for a boogie and a drink together. Complete with its own bar and outdoor viewing deck, we will be doing post-match interviews with members of the coaching staff and players

For the Musos – Listen to the sounds of solo artist, Michael Anderson who will be performing live at Gate B from 1:00pm and again in the PKJ Lounge from 3:30pm

Meet your Idols – We will be opening the field post game for photos and signings with the Steelers. The players will then head up to the Phil Kingsley Jones Lounge, where all are welcome to attend the after match function

FOOD AND BEV:

There will be food trucks servicing the Grandstand and Embankment areas. Offerings include hot chips, hotdogs, burgers and hot & cold beverages, including alcoholic.  

The Phil Kingsley Jones Lounge will be opened to all post-match, offering drinks and some food.

TRANSPORT:

Navigation Homes Stadium is located in central Pukekohe, on the corner of Franklin Road and Stadium Drive. There is carparking available at Gate D, at $10 per park. Otherwise there is roadside parking available around the venue.

The stadium is an easy seven-minute walk from the Pukekohe Bus and Train Station.

RSA Franklin Pipe Band

Barfoot & Thompson Best Seats in the House

We can't wait to have you here at Navigation Homes Stadium this Labour Weekend! Tickets available here: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2020/oct/counties-v-wellington