- Southlanders can see the Shield up close during several public events this week
- Over 45 stops include schools, aged care villages, and children’s health facilities
- Main public viewing event is Saturday at Rugby Park Stadium before the big game
Southlanders will have the rare chance to get up close to the iconic Ranfurly Shield this week as it makes its way around the region in a series of public events.
Known as the Log o’ Wood, the Shield is home in Southland once again. With more than 45 scheduled visits across the community, including stops at aged care homes, schools, children’s wards, and local businesses, organisers are keen for as many people as possible to share in the moment.
“As you can imagine, it has been a mission to try and get it out as best we can, and I wish I could get it to more locations. We have over 45 other visits planned including aged care villages, schools, businesses, children's ward and hospice to name a few. I do hope you can make it along to one the below!”
There are several chances this week for locals to catch the Shield at public venues:
Wednesday
- Splash Palace: 3.15pm – 3.45pm
- ILT Stadium South Foyer: 5.00pm – 7.00pm
Thursday
- SBS Bank Invercargill: 3.00pm – 4.30pm
- Newfield Tavern: 6.10pm – 6.40pm
- Eastern Suburbs: 6.50pm – 7.20pm
- Northern Tavern: 7.30pm – 8.00pm
- Waikiwi Tavern: 8.10pm – 8.40pm
Friday
- Editors Cut: 6.10pm – 6.40pm
- Southland Tavern: 6.50pm – 7.20pm
- Ascot Sports Bar: 7.30pm – 8.00pm
- The Ave: 8.10pm – 8.40pm
The main celebration happens this Saturday at Rugby Park Stadium, where the Shield will be on display from 1.00pm to 3.30pm. It will then be moved onto the field and remain viewable throughout the Southland Stags’ match against Canterbury.
Tickets for the game are just $20 for adults, and every adult ticket includes free entry for two children under 14. Organisers are expecting a near-capacity crowd for the match.
“Please help us spread the word, as we'd like to get as many hands on it as possible. Let’s celebrate together and show the Shield what Southland pride is all about!”