Hurricanes Aim for Record Crowd Against Western Force in Napier

The Hurricanes are set to face off against the Western Force in a highly anticipated match at McLean Park in Napier on March 13, 2026. This event follows the Hurricanes’ impressive opening game in the Super Rugby Pacific season, where they secured a commanding 52-10 victory over Moana Pasifika in front of nearly 14,000 spectators at Sky Stadium in Wellington.

Local officials and fans are rallying to demonstrate strong crowd support, aiming to surpass the attendance of last year’s match against Fiji Drua, which drew 11,381 attendees in Napier. A spokesperson for the Hurricanes indicated that ticket sales for the upcoming match are “tracking similarly” to those from last year, suggesting a positive outlook for crowd numbers.

Previous Attendance Records and Expectations

Historically, the Hurricanes have seen their largest home crowd reach 13,242 against the Crusaders. This upcoming match marks the second home region game for the Hurricanes this year, and expectations are high for local fans to make a significant impact on attendance figures.

The community in Hawke’s Bay is being encouraged to come out in full force, showcasing the region’s passion for rugby. By surpassing the previous year’s numbers, local supporters would not only enhance the atmosphere at McLean Park but also send a message of pride and enthusiasm to the capital city.

As the match date approaches, the excitement among fans continues to build, with many eager to witness the Hurricanes in action against a competitive Western Force team. The stakes are high, not just for the teams on the field, but for the local community looking to turn out in record numbers.