Rotorua rugby league fans are in for a treat as the One New Zealand Warriors visit Rotorua this week as part of the Warriors Community Foundation tour.

This opportunity presented itself following the development of a strong relationship between Rotorua Lakes Council and the Warriors Community Foundation throughout the year.

The connection saw more than 60 tamariki and their whānau given the opportunity to experience attending One New Zealand Warriors games in Auckland.

Rotorua was earmarked as a location when the Warriors Community Foundation was planning its tour.

Mayor Tania Tapsell said it is a fantastic opportunity for the local community to see their league icons right here in Rotorua.

“We have put lots of effort into making Rotorua a top destination for events, in particular sports. It’s a massive and special opportunity for our locals to see and meet these league legends,” Tapsell said.

“We’re really grateful Rotorua is included in the tour and fundraising events to give back to the growing Bay of Plenty District Rugby League community.”

One New Zealand Warriors at pre-season training, October 2025. Photo / One New Zealand Warriors

One of these fundraising events is ‘Behind the jersey: A night to connect with the One New Zealand Warriors’. This is a not-to-be-missed experience with the One New Zealand Warriors and a chance to give back to local league clubs. Hosted by the Warriors Community Foundation, this event will take place at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua on Thursday November 20 from 6.45pm.

MC Steve Watene will talk about Bay of Plenty rugby league and how funds raised from this event will support the development of up-and-coming district players while Warriors head coach Andrew Webster and guests will talk about coaching, the team, recruitment and the season ahead.

Following this, the visiting One New Zealand Warriors will arrive. It’s an opportunity to hear from some of them, enjoy the mix and mingle and get photos.

Tickets for this event are limited and available via Ticketmaster. (https://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/event/2400636DB4A645FD)

Entry is $25 per person, or upgrade to $50 per person and receive a wine and individual cheese plate (please note $50 tickets are R18).

All proceeds raised from this event and a Warriors Community Foundation Trade Me auction for a signed jersey (https://rlc.net.nz/b1a8ta) will be donated to Bay of Plenty District Rugby League for its junior development programme.

Connection, education and inspiration is at the forefront of what the Warriors Community Foundation deliver, CEO, Lincoln Jefferson said.

“The players and staff love to support the regions across Aotearoa. It is such a special way to also bond as a team,” he said.

Bay of Plenty rugby league fans are invited to watch the One New Zealand Warriors in an open training session on Friday, November 21. It’s an early start but fans can get along to watch them train at Rotorua International Stadium from 6.45am - 8am.

The Warriors Community Foundation will also be organising two school sessions on Friday November 21.  These fun and engaging skills sessions will be attended by One New Zealand Warriors players and coaching squad led by head coach Andrew Webster.

For more information about these events visit www.rotorualakescouncil.nz