Winger Jona Nareki visited Weston School, near Oamaru, yesterday to announce the Farmlands Cup, against the Crusaders, will be played at Weston’s Valley Rugby Club next year.
Nareki said it was exciting to bring a Super Rugby hit-out to rural North Otago for the first time.
‘‘It’s good to come to these smaller towns and give back to them. No doubt there will be a nice crowd here — there usually is when it’s in the little country towns,’’ Nareki said.
Coach Tony Brown said playing in North Otago was a great way to kick off the season.
‘‘North Otago is known for their passion for rugby and we see that every year in their Heartland Championship team performances,’’ Brown said.
Valley members were also excited at the prospect. Club president Hamish Loe said there were already discussions for fundraising events, including Maheno and Kurow Rugby Clubs, to coincide with the match.
‘‘It’s just going to be a great opportunity for everyone to come and see some good Mainland rugby being played,’’ Loe said.
‘‘It’s good for young children like this to see their players and that up close — it’s just a reality thing for them.’’
