While the Crusaders' defence of their Super Rugby crown is on shaky ground with an 0-5 start, rugby league and the One NZ Warriors have quickly become the hottest ticket in town, literally.
It's one thing to sell out an NRL trial match at Apollo Projects Stadium, but to do it again a month later for the Warriors' Round 3 matchup against the Canberra Raiders, has Kiwi sports fans taking notice.
With 17,249 in attendance to witness Friday night's 18-10 Warriors victory, it takes the grand total to well over 30,000 across the two games.
Outside of the Warriors themselves, the main narrative has been around the potential for a second NRL team in New Zealand, with the Canterbury region putting their hand for expansion with two separate bids.
Incredible scenes at Apollo Projects Stadium as the @NZWarriors return for the second half! 🔥🔥🔥
— SENZ (@SENZ_Radio) March 22, 2024
Tune into SENZ for live commentary on the SENZ app and all NZ frequencies: https://t.co/lZMow2ENP0#NRLWarriorsRaiders pic.twitter.com/dGLI3XuEaK
While in Christchurch to commentate for SENZ, Blake Ayshford caught up with New Zealand Rugby League's Ray Hubbard to find out more about the current state of the sport in the Garden City.
Hubbard is a National Game Development Officer for NZRL, working closely with clubs and schools across the region, as the increased participation levels reflect the recent impressive ticket sales.
Watch the full interview below:
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