With the DHL NZ Lion Series 2017 to kickstart in June, New Zealand is all set to treat its visitors and locals with a specially curated programme of special events that celebrate the game and showcases the Kiwi culture. So between the 10 matches that will be played between 3 June and 8 July, rugby fans can explore the different regions and communities from far north to the deep south.
World's biggest haka
Take part in the world's biggest haka at the Giant Haka to be held from 10:30 am on 17 June at Rotorua's Lakefront Village Green. The aim is to break the Guinness World Record for the largest haka, which is currently held by the French. The haka in Rotorua will need more than 6200 people chant the All Blacks' famous Ke Mate haka. Admission is free, so join in.
Legends at the Local at Kamo Rugby Club
Enjoy a few beers and authentic Kiwi food at the first of the several Legends events to be held throughout New Zealand. The Legends at the Local at Kamo Rugby Club in Whangarei offers visitors a chance to rub shoulders with some of the greatest national and provincial players.
Matariki, the Maori New Year (10 June to 2 July)
Dozens of events will take place to celebrate the Maori New Year throughout New Zealand. Some of the highlights for this year include the All Stars Parade in Rotorua, the Matariki Whanau Festival in Whangarei on 17 June, and the Te Whānau Marama: The Heavenly Bodies exhibition at Waikato Museum in Hamilton, which will be on until 13 July 2018.
Auckland fan trail
Auckland's 4.2km fan trail from Queens Whard to Eden Park will see hundreds of walkers, entertainment, and activities, complete with a Hall of Lengends display with more than 200 items of New Zealand sporting memorabilia. The Auckland Fanzene at Queens Wharf will also offer a live big-screen match coverage for the test matches along with rugby exhibitions, activities, and food and drink for sale.
Source: Tourism New Zealand
Photo credit: Maki Tanagimachi Earth and Sky (Matariki image); others supplied
