Anzac Day (25 March) 2025 will see the Bay Oval become a Super Rugby Pacific venue, for a day, when the Gallagher Chiefs host the Western Force who will travel from Perth in Western Australia, to play the local heroes. 
 
Bay Oval Trust General Manager, Kelvin Jones said “We're excited to host our first Super Rugby match and the Gallagher Chiefs at the Bay Oval. The game will highlight the versatility of the venue as a truly community asset. After two recent international T20 cricket sellouts, we look forward to seeing the embankments full for this match.”
 
To those more familiar with a rugby ball than a cricket ball, many will be surprised to learn that in just twenty years, the Blake Park ground has been transformed from a scrubby wasteland into a world-class international cricket venue.
 
Just twenty days before the Chiefs versus Western Force matchup, our New Zealand Black Caps defeated Pakistan in an ICC One-Day International at the Bay Oval, to sweep the three-game series.
 
Gallagher Chiefs Head Coach Clayton McMillan said, “We are excited to bring Super Rugby back to my home region and know that our fans will appreciate the opportunity to see the team play in their backyard at this premiere sports ground.”
 
The ground is fully set up to host big events. The LED lights turn darkness into better than daylight. 
 
From the unique main entrance, spectators walk into an area set out with food trucks and refreshment options, before making their way to grassy banks that will have the rugby fans almost on top of the action.
 
Anzac Day, adds to the unique occasion where rugby meets cricket at the Bay Oval, and the event will feature an Anzac remembrance component supported by the Mount Maunganui and Tauranga RSA’s.
 
Word is that tickets are at a premium and it is expected that the full house sign will be on display before Anzac Day kick-off.
 
Super Rugby Pacific @ Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui Friday 25 April 2025
Gallagher Chiefs v Western Force - 7.05 pm kickoff.