Hautapu Sports’ Memorial Park will host top women’s rugby on Saturday September 13 when Waikato play Manawatu in the Farah Palmer Cup.
The Waitomo Waikato team will go head-to-head with the Manawatu Cyclones, kicking off at 2.05pm.
The teams currently sit first and second in the national premiership.
Entry is by gold coin, and the event will be complemented by family-friendly activities, including giveaways, a bucket truck experience, and a chance to meet the players.
Waipā Networks, in partnership with Waikato Rugby, are supporting the game to help bring New Zealand’s premier women’s rugby back to the grassroots, inspiring the next generation of wāhine in Waipā.
Thanks to Waipā Networks’ sponsorship, the Waipā community can attend the match for a gold coin donation, and local vendors will have the opportunity to provide catering and hospitality.
Anna Watson, general manager of customer and community at Waipā Networks, says the network’s funding has been directed towards premier Waikato women’s rugby to celebrate community, sport, and opportunities for women.
“Having our premier women’s team playing at one of our local parks in our community is awesome, and we’re proud to be associated with this team of wāhine toa,” says Watson.
“It’s more than just a game of rugby. It’s about community connection and supporting women in sport. Teamwork, resilience, and leadership are as vital off the field as on it, and at Waipā Networks, we’re passionate about championing these qualities and growing opportunities for our community.”
On match day, visitors will enjoy a range of on-site activities, including a fan space at the Waipā Networks marquee with career information and giveaways, a bucket truck experience for the kids to see what it’s like to work on the lines, and opportunities to meet the team and players.
Watson says the event is part of Waipā Networks’ broader commitment to diversifying the infrastructure workforce, empowering women in technical and leadership roles, and strengthening community connections through local events.
Dr Amy Marfell, Waikato Rugby’s chief executive, says she’s thrilled to partner with Waipā Networks to bring one of the Farah Palmer Cup games to the Waipā district.
“Bringing the match to the Waipā community is about more than rugby — it’s about inspiring the next generation and celebrating the game and our pretty special female athletes throughout our communities,” she says.
Fixture
Game to be played on Saturday September 13, 2025
Farah Palmer Cup
Waikato v Manawau Cyclones
Memorial Park, Cambridge, 2.05pm
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