Bay of Plenty, it’s time to stand up and get behind your team. This Sunday, the Bay of Plenty Steamers kick off their 2025 Bunnings Warehouse NPC season on home turf at Tauranga Domain, taking on Tasman’s Mako in what promises to be an electrifying opener.

“Our two All Blacks, Emoni Narawa and Pasilio Tosi, have been released to play for us, and Timoci Tavatavanawai for Tasman,” said Steamers’ head coach Richard Watt.

“Narawa and Tavatavanawai are two of the most exciting and entertaining players in the country and worth the price of admission by themselves.”

Kick-off is at 2.05pm and local fans are encouraged to be there, pack the stands and make some serious noise.

The Tauranga Domain stand packed with Bay of Plenty Steamers fans. Photo / BOP Rugby

After a gutsy run in 2024 that saw the Steamers claim all six provincial challenge trophies and push Wellington to the absolute brink in a dramatic 100-minute final, the team is back with one goal: go one better.

“After the year we had, the players are pretty hungry to come back, reach that final again, and go one better,” Watt said.

He is emphatic about the critical role of home support, particularly at the Tauranga Domain.

“As the season gained momentum last year, we saw full houses at the domain. The players feel it when the Bay of Plenty community turns out to support the home games.”

This season, fans are encouraged to turn up at Tauranga Domain even louder and prouder, starting from game one.

Bring the whānau, bring the colours, bring the noise. Whether you’re a long-time season ticket holder or new to the blue and gold, the Steamers believe your support makes the difference.

Tauranga Domain gates open on August 3 at 11am; curtain raiser: 11.35am, Steamers versus Tasman: 2.05pm. Tickets available now via Flicket.