Record 11,793 Fans Pack Stadium for Women's Rugby Match

Nearly 12,000 fans packed One NZ Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday to watch women's rugby, smashing New Zealand's attendance record and creating a moment players say they'll never forget.

The crowd of 11,793 came out to watch Matatū defeat Chiefs Manawa 52-26 in the opening round of Super Rugby Aupiki. That's more than double the previous record of 4,800 fans set in 2024.

"You've made us feel seen, you've made us feel heard," Matatū captain Grace Brooker told the roaring crowd after the game. "I don't know if you understand what you've actually done here today. You've set the precedent for the rest of the competition, for the rest of Aotearoa."

The players delivered a performance worthy of the historic turnout. Matatū put on a clinical display with eight tries, including a hat trick from new recruit Elinor-Plum King in her first game with the team.

Paris Lokotui, a former professional netball player who switched to rugby, stood out in the forward pack. She made an early impact with a crucial turnover and helped set up multiple scoring plays.

Black Ferns halfback Maia Joseph orchestrated much of the offense, helping Matatū record both their highest score and biggest winning margin ever. The team showed they're serious contenders after finishing as runners-up in 2025.

The record crowd builds on momentum from Christchurch's new roofed stadium, which has already drawn 25,000 fans for recent events. Women's sports are clearly finding their audience when given equal venues and promotion.

The Ripple Effect

This attendance record sends a powerful message across New Zealand and beyond. When communities show up for women's athletes, it creates visibility that inspires the next generation of players and fans.

The nearly 12,000 people in those stands proved there's massive appetite for women's rugby. Their support gives young girls permission to dream bigger about their own athletic futures.

Other teams and leagues are watching too. What happened in Christchurch shows that investing in women's sports with quality venues and marketing pays off in packed stadiums and unforgettable moments.

Grace Brooker said it best: the fans set a precedent, and now the rest of the country gets to follow.