About Pakuranga United Rugby Club
Pakuranga United Rugby Club (PURC) is renowned as Auckland’s largest community rugby club . Established in 1965 and based at picturesque Bell Park (part of Lloyd Elsmore Park in East Auckland), it now supports over 60 teams spanning senior, junior, and nursery grades . The club is truly a multi-sport hub – for example, it features one of East Auckland’s only international-standard badminton centres with 11 courts plus an indoor basketball court and gym . There are also netball teams (senior netball was added in 2012 ) and touch rugby leagues. On match days the “Trevor King Sports Bar” adjoins the grounds, and PURC even offers three function rooms (including the modern Dufty Bell Lounge and Montressor’s Lounge) each with a bar/kitchen and in-house caterer for events .
The club’s history adds to its character. Pakuranga’s ancestor was the original Howick Rugby Club (founded 1920) but a big move came in the 1960s when local benefactor Duffy Bell donated six acres for a new “footy field” at Bell Park . The first clubhouse on that site opened in 1975 (officiated by NZ Rugby President Frank O’Connor) . Since then the clubrooms have expanded and sports facilities updated – for example, the gym block (“The Gym”) was refitted with modern showers and a sauna for members . On the field, Pakuranga has built a proud record: its Premier team won Auckland’s Gallaher Shield in 2013 and its juniors and U85kg teams have won Auckland and national titles in recent years. Many notable players passed through PURC – All Black props Steve Pokere and Steve McDowall (Auckland reps in the 1980s) first made provincial teams as Pakuranga clubmen , and the club has continued producing representative players into the 2000s.
Today PURC’s unique blend of sports facilities and social spaces makes it stand out in Auckland’s Eastern suburbs. The main rugby field (Bell Park) is set in lush, rolling grounds of Lloyd Elsmore Park, a large multi-purpose sports complex with playgrounds, BMX parks and more . The two-story Dufty Bell Lounge overlooks the field, giving a true grandstand feel , while the Montressor’s Function Centre provides a modern indoor venue for larger events (catering up to 250 guests ). In short, Pakuranga United is notable both for its scale (fielding dozens of teams and offering diverse activities) and for its deep local roots: a club literally born of the community (the playing grounds were farmed by the Bell family for 100+ years before being gifted) . It’s this combination of high-quality facilities and grassroots spirit that makes the Pakuranga United Rugby Club special to the Auckland scene.
Events and Programming
Pakuranga United is first and foremost an active sports venue. In the traditional winter seasons (March–September), it hosts regular Auckland club rugby competitions for all levels – from Under-6s age-grade teams up through Premier grade senior rugby. The Premier team plays home games on the main pitch, and the club also schedules matches for Colts (U21), Under-85kg (“Black Panthers”), women’s, and other grades at Bell Park each weekend. All these games are open to the public, and local supporters often come out in force. In recent seasons, PURC’s U85kg team has been especially successful: they won the Auckland title and even squeaked through to the national quarter-finals in 2024 . Beyond rugby, the club fields senior and intermediate netball teams (playing at nearby netball courts) and runs one of Auckland’s largest summer Touch Rugby programs from October through February .
In addition to regular season matches, Pakuranga United hosts special tournaments and community events. Every January the club runs its own Pakuranga Club Sevens tournament, drawing crowds of players and spectators for a weekend of fast-paced rugby sevens . The clubhouse also participates in local community events – for example, the PURC marching team regularly joins the annual Pakuranga Santa Parade each summer . In recent years the venue has attracted marquee events: in September 2023 Pakuranga was chosen to host a Bunnings NPC “Battle of the Bombays” match (Auckland vs Waikato) . For that occasion the club was transformed into a festival park – temporary seating was brought in, plus a beer garden, kids’ zone, live music and other attractions to create a carnival atmosphere for the game . Pakuranga’s General Manager noted they had previously hosted other big events (e.g. games at the World Masters Games and school Sevens tournaments) , so bringing an NPC crowd into the suburbs was a natural fit.
Pakuranga’s facilities are also available for private functions year-round, so outside of sport the calendar can fill up with birthdays, weddings, corporate seminars and local fundraisers. The Montressor’s and Dufty Bell function rooms have hosted everything from 21st birthday dances to business conferences. In 2025 the venue even held a “Corporate Fight Night” boxing fundraiser on a Friday evening, raising money for a youth team’s overseas tour . At that event parents of players squared off in the ring, and tickets (around $70 each) were sold through team channels to local supporters . While such novelty events aren’t weekly occurrences, they show the club’s programming ranges far beyond rugby – it includes community fairs, fundraisers, and corporate events whenever a big hall is needed. (OVerall, most activity is sport rather than music or theatre, but with its function rooms and open fields, the club can accommodate a wide variety of local events.)
Tickets and Booking
Most regular club rugby and touch games at Pakuranga are free or casual-entry; you simply turn up and watch from the sidelines. However, larger events do require tickets. For example, when the Auckland vs Waikato NPC match was announced, tickets were sold online (through Auckland Rugby’s system) with prices like $20 for adults, $10 secondary students and $5 children . Similarly, the 2025 boxing fundraiser event sold general-admission tickets ($70 each) in advance via the organizers . If you plan to attend any special event (provincial game, gala, concert-style show), check the club’s official notices early: tickets typically go on sale weeks ahead and popular events can sell out. The club and Auckland Rugby often post ticket links on their websites or Facebook pages when dates are announced.
As for booking in-person, the Pakuranga clubrooms do not have a public box office like a stadium. For smaller local matches there’s usually no need to buy in-person. For private functions or corporate hires of the function rooms, you would make arrangements directly with the club’s events team (contact info is on their hire page). In some community events, last-minute door sales may be possible if seats remain, but it’s safest to reserve early, especially for finals, presentations, or sold-out matches. In short: for everyday games, just show up; for ticketed shows or big rugby fixtures, secure tickets through the announced official channels as soon as possible.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Pakuranga is quite informal compared to a major stadium. Bell Park’s main rugby pitch has no permanent grandstand except for the club buildings on one side. The best vantage point is actually the club’s upstairs Dufty Bell Lounge, which sits above the field and provides a “grandstand” view overlooking Bell Park . Otherwise spectators at field events stand or bring chairs to the grass sidelines and embankments. Since the entire field is used, there are good sight lines from any side – standing near halfway offers a broad view. For big games, visitors sometimes set up temporary bleachers along the touchline. (At the 2023 NPC event, extra tiered seating was erected as part of the fan zone .)
Inside the Montressor’s Function Centre and Dufty Lounge, seating is fully flexible. The Montressor’s complex has multiple halls where chairs and tables can be arranged for conferences or dinners – for example, it can host a seated crowd of up to 250 guests . The Dufty Lounge itself has a dance floor, bar tables, and a stage at one end, with fixed AV gear (big screen, projector, microphone and speakers) installed . For event-goers watching a presentation or watching the big screen, standard banquet seating is provided. There are also dedicated coat and merchandise areas possible at shows. Note that the Dufty Lounge and sports bar areas are upstairs, so those seeking an open-air view should remain on the ground floor around the pitch.
In summary, there is no “bad seat” in the house because apart from the lounge all viewing is wide-open. For rugby or touch games, locate yourself along the half-way line or behind the 22m posts for best action and depth perception. The restaurant/bar in the clubhouse is set back, but you can still catch glimpses of play. The Dufty Lounge is perfect if you prefer to sit off the ground – it has a balcony deck with railing view towards the field . If loud music or bass is involved (as in a club event), shouting audience noise can carry, but otherwise the space is open-air, so audio is just the normal crowd and PA exactly as at any park rugby match.
Getting There and Parking
Pakuranga United is at 78 Bells Road, Pakuranga , tucked inside Lloyd Elsmore Park . Because this is eastern Auckland suburbia, the easiest access is by car or taxi. The club offers ample free parking on-site – in the parking lots around the clubrooms and gym . In fact, even its event brochure lists “Free off-street parking” as a feature . The wider park has several car parks (including disabled/mobility spaces) near the fields and pool , so you won’t struggle to find a spot on weekends or match days. If these fill up, more parking is available a short walk away at adjacent sports grounds or on Bells Road itself.
Public transit options are more limited. Auckland Transport bus routes (for example the 72/72M along Pakuranga Road) pass near Pakuranga plaza about 1.5–2km from the club. From there you’d walk up Pakuranga Road to Bells Road. The closest train station is Panmure (Eastern Line), roughly 3km north; from Panmure station you can take a connecting bus (or a 30-minute walk along Ti Rakau Drive/Pakuranga Rd) to reach the park. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) or taxis can drop off directly at the club’s address, which is useful late at night. Pedestrians can also enter the park from Pakuranga Highway or Cascades Road on foot, but note after-dark lighting is minimal. Overall, most attendees drive; just remember to leave early if it’s a big event, since traffic can build on Paerata Street and Pakuranga Road around game time.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, you'll typically enter through the main club reception or head straight to the sports bar around the back. For everyday games the facility is quite open – there usually isn’t formal ticketing or bag search unless it’s a big concert-style event. General security is friendly and casual, as you might expect at a local club: marshals in high-vis shirts may direct latecomers or handle any incident, but there’s no heavy police presence unless there’s a very large crowd. Inside the clubhouse areas, you’ll find a comfortable, sporty atmosphere: a mix of TV monitors (showing rugby or TV channels) above the bars, team photos on walls, and chatter from players and families.
Food and drink facilities are a highlight. The Trevor King Sports Bar (downstairs next to the lounge) is fully licensed, serving beer, wine or groceries on game days. For indoor events, each function room comes with its own kitchenette/bar and the club’s catering team. In fact, the club’s brochure boasts that “each room has bar/kitchen facilities” and Ken Long’s in-house catering is available for weddings or conferences . The Dufty Bell Lounge has a dance floor and stage for event functions, plus AV gear (projector, big screen and microphone) and even Sky TV for broadcasting games . Restroom facilities are plentiful; besides the dedicated bathrooms in the clubhouse, the adjacent sports complex has changing rooms and toilets (note: the gym section even includes showers and a sauna for members ).
Merchandise and services are on-site too. The club runs an online team store (via a partner called Dynasty) for selling jerseys and gear , and large functions often set up a table for memorabilia or raffle sales. There’s rarely a coat-check (participants usually leave coats in cars) and mobile phone coverage is generally good (Auckland cellular networks work fine across the park). Wi-Fi is not publicly advertised for general visitors, but the function center likely has its own network for conferences. In summary, inside Pakuranga United one will typically find a friendly club vibe: cold drinks at the bar, simple café-style snacks or burger stalls on busy days, TV screens for viewing action replays, and plenty of open space to relax. If you need help, any club volunteer or official around the counter will be happy to assist with directions or information.
Nearby Amenities
Although Pakuranga is largely a residential area, there are some handy amenities close by. Pakuranga Town Centre (about a 5-minute drive or a 2.5 km walk north on Pakuranga Road) is the main local shopping hub. There you’ll find a supermarket, bottle shop, cafés and fast-food outlets (fish-&-chips, pizza, etc.) for a quick meal before a match. Closer still (1–2 km away) is the original Howick Village area, which offers several restaurants and pubs – for example, an authentic Thai place, an Indian curry house, and a classic sports bar. If you want a sit-down dinner or pub meal, the Howick Pub & Grill and Nana Baklava Café are popular options in the 10–15 minutes drive range. For coffee or light bites, the local dairy shops and cafés (such as Howick’s Mainstreet Bowl location) also do sandwiches and hot pies. In short, options include suburban takeaways and middle-eastern cuisine a short drive away; just know that most eateries will close around 9–10 pm, so plan your evening meal in advance.
Hotels are scarce in this suburb itself, but a few motels are nearby. For overnight stays, the Howick Motor Lodge on Pakuranga Rd is the closest (only about 1.7 km from the club) . This kind of motel/pub setup lets fans grab dinner or drinks on-site. Another is the Pakuranga Motor Lodge at 100 Pakuranga Rd (around 2.8 km) . These local motels provide the basic comforts if you’re coming from out of town. Otherwise most people rely on staying in central Auckland or East Auckland and driving in. When heading home late, note that Auckland’s last northbound buses generally leave Pakuranga by 10pm – after major events you’ll likely need to use a rideshare or taxi back to your accommodation if public transit has wound down. Overall, you’ll want to arrive early (see below) and park or be dropped off; for food and lodging, the extent of local choices is small but sufficient if you book ahead.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pakuranga United isn’t a famous concert arena or historic theatre – its charm lies in being a community cornerstone. Few venues epitomize local sport culture like this. The club’s roots in the area give it a special story: its main field is named for Duffy Bell, the local farmer and club vice-president who donated land for Bell Park in the 1960s . In effect, paying respects to Pakuranga’s rural heritage. The clubhouse itself has hosted memorable moments: New Zealand rugby legends and dignitaries have walked through these doors, and in 1987 the Italian national side even practiced here during a World Cup . Those footy fields have turned out major talent: All Blacks Steve Pokere and Steve McDowall were club stars before wearing the black jersey . Even today, fans might recognize current Super Rugby players or test rep players in the white and blue, knowing they once ran around PURC’s pitches.
Facilities-wise, Pakuranga is unexpectedly well-appointed for a suburban club. The mention in official info of features like a sauna and fully-equipped showers hints at quality that players treasure after a game. On the event side, the Montressor’s Function Centre is a flexible conference hall one minute and a mellow banquet room the next – unusual in a grass-roots club setting. Essentially you can hold a wedding reception, sports dinner and a rugby match all on the same grounds. The Dufty Bell Lounge’s upstairs bar provides an “inside” viewing area unlike most clubs. Spectators seated there enjoy a panoramic view of Bell Park and the entire Lloyd Elsmore complex, which is quite scenic. Many visitors comment that watching rugby from the lounge is as comfortable as being in a theatre (with a function bar and big screen TV to boot). This mixture of grassroots vibe (you can pull weeds by the field edge after a game) and near-professional amenities (in-house AV, catering) is what fans love.
Local fans say Pakuranga United “feels like family.” Everyone from the children’s teams to grandmas at the gates takes pride in the club. There’s a tradition of post-game barbecues and raffles funded by the community, and on big matchdays you’ll see old jerseys proudly worn even by retired players on the sidelines. PURC’s website also highlights values of teamwork, mana and fun – meaning they emphasize a respectful, inclusive atmosphere. This down-to-earth community spirit, combined with its well-maintained fields and clubhouse, is why visitors and artists (if any play here) appreciate the venue. It may not have historic monuments, but every club legend and photo in the foyer tells story. In short: Pakuranga United is special for what it represents – the heart and soul of rugby on Auckland’s east side, where every weekend is a local celebration of sport.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The club and park are generally designed to be inclusive. Lloyd Elsmore Park provides accessible car parks and paths , and the ground-level areas of the clubrooms (such as the Sports Bar and Montressor’s halls) are wheelchair-friendly. However, note that the Dufty Bell Lounge is upstairs, so that room isn’t suitable for someone who can’t use stairs. For any event at Purc, staff will assist if you need ramp access or a specific seating area – just mention it when booking or arriving. High-visibility lanes are typically marked, and the main entrances have gentle slopes for strollers or wheelchairs.
What to Bring: Dress and gear depend on the weather. If you’re attending a daytime rugby or netball match outdoors, wear sun protection and comfortable shoes; a lawn chair or blanket is useful since seating is informal. In late winter or wet weather, bring a true waterproof jacket – the sidelines can turn muddy and opening umbrellas can block others’ views, so a poncho is better for rain. Cash or card is wise for the bar/food kiosk (the bar usually takes electronic payments). If children come, bring snacks and change of clothes – little kids love the playground in the park! But don’t bring your own alcohol (the venue is licensed and has its own bars). Also, large bags or bottles may be checked by security at major events – only small bags and standard re-sealable water bottles are guaranteed entry. (No glass bottles by law.) Check the event’ specific FAQs too, as age limits might apply: most club games allow all ages, but a fundraiser with boxing or late-night music will likely have an 18+ rule for ticket buyers.
Practical Tips: Arrive early. For a typical club game, arriving 20–30 minutes beforehand is fine, but for big matches or finals plan on 45+ minutes. This ensures you can park close, find a good viewing spot, and visit the ladies or bar before kickoff. If you arrive late, the entry gates (at the back of Montressor’s) will be open but you may need to climb some steps to get into the lounge area. Avoid bringing valuables: the club is safe, but free sporting events sometimes have unattended items stolen. Locker facilities do not exist for casual visitors, so keep wallets on your person. Be mindful of smokers: Lloyd Elsmore Park and its buildings are officially smokefree, so nicotine users must smoke well away from the club entrances.
Etiquette and Regulations: The vibe at Pakuranga Club is friendly and casual. You’ll see families picnicking on the grass, and children running around at halftime. Fans and players usually mix freely after games – it’s common to congratulate players at the fence. Still, remember this is a community clubhouse: typical rules apply (no fighting, respect the referees, and keep dogs leashed in public areas). Photography for personal use is fine (people often snap team photos or kids playing), but drones and professional cameras might need permission. Video recording the game is allowed, but please stay behind the legal sidelines if you set up a rig. Finally, check the weather policy: rugby is deemed a rain-or-shine sport here, so games rarely cancel except for extremely hazardous conditions (lightning or flood warnings would be announced). If an event is indoors (say, a wedding in Montressor’s), dress formally; if it’s an outdoor match, come in your everyday sporting gear. When in doubt, ask one of the volunteers at the reception – they know all the club’s little customs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pakuranga United Rugby Club located?
The club is at 78 Bells Road, Pakuranga , inside Lloyd Elsmore Park in East Auckland . If you put “Pakuranga United Rugby Club” into a GPS or map, it will show Bell Park. Look for the grounds near the corner of Paerata Street and Aviation Drive in Pakuranga Heights.
Is there parking available at Pakuranga United Rugby Club?
Yes. There are large free car parks on-site and around the sports fields. In fact, the Dufty Bell Lounge advertises “free off-street parking” . Lloyd Elsmore Park’s parking facilities include disabled spaces . On busy days, use any of the adjacent lots spilled across Lloyd Elsmore Park – parking is not metered, but arrive early for peak matches.
What is the seating capacity at Pakuranga United Rugby Club?
The club’s main rugby ground has no fixed seating limits (spectators stand or bring chairs). The Montressor’s Function Centre, however, can seat up to about 250 guests for dinners or conferences . In practice, the open field can hold many hundreds if not thousands (people spread around the pitch), so there’s no strict “capacity” figure like a stadium. It’s essentially general admission around the fields.
Are there food and drink options at the club?
Yes. The club’s Trevor King Sports Bar serves beer, wine, and soft drinks on game days. For major events, on-site food stalls (like sausage sizzles or pies) are often set up outside. The clubhouse and function rooms have full catering as well – the in-house caterer (Ken Long) provides menus for weddings and dinners . You can also buy packaged snacks or use nearby cafés. Note: outside alcohol is not permitted when the club’s bar is open (they serve liquor on site).
Are children and families welcome at Pakuranga United Rugby Club events?
Absolutely. The club is family-friendly and often fields children’s teams, so kids are seen everywhere. There are playgrounds in Lloyd Elsmore Park and “kids zones” may be set up during big festivals or sevens tournaments. On normal match days, children run around the oval or stand by the try line. Youth teams play too (for example U6 through U18), so families are very much part of the scene. Just remember to supervise young ones and keep them off the pitch when play is live.
Is Pakuranga United Rugby Club wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most areas are accessible. The park and clubrooms have ramps and mobility parking . The ground-level areas (sports bar, Montressor’s halls, gym) can be reached by wheelchair. Note that the Dufty Bell Lounge is upstairs without a lift, so that particular lounge isn’t wheelchair-accessible. Otherwise, accessible toilets and parking are provided. If you have special needs, the staff can assist or escort you to an appropriate viewing spot.
Do I need tickets to watch local rugby matches at the club?
For regular club games (Auckland club competitions), no ticket is needed – entry is free for spectators in most cases. You just walk in and watch from the sidelines. Only for larger or special fixtures (like the Auckland vs Waikato NPC match) will there be a charge and official ticketing. Those games will have tickets sold in advance, while routine junior or Gaelic rugby club games at Pakuranga are typically open admission.
Where can I buy tickets for Pakuranga United Rugby Club events?
Ticketed events are usually announced on the club’s website or via Auckland Rugby. For example, the 2023 NPC game went on sale through Auckland Rugby’s Flicket system, with pricing starting at $20 adult . For special fundraisers (like the boxing night in 2025), tickets were issued by team organizers or the club’s event promoters . If you’re unsure, contact the club office or check their social media. There is no walk-up box office, so most ticket sales are online or phone-in.
Are there age restrictions or a dress code at the club?
Generally it’s very casual. For most daytime sports, everyone of any age is welcome – you’ll see toddlers to grandparents. Clothing is informal (jeans, shorts, team jerseys are normal). Only at private or evening events (like formal dinners or late-night fundraisers) might a dress code apply (those would be advertised in advance). Do bring ID if you plan to buy alcohol – you must be 18+ to drink. Non-sportswear (such as formal dress) is only needed if the invitation explicitly says “dress smart”.
What public transportation serves Pakuranga United Rugby Club?
There’s no direct train to the club, but you can take buses to nearby stops. The Auckland AT bus routes along Pakuranga Road (e.g. 72, 72M) go to Pakuranga town centre; from there it’s about a 2.5 km (30 min) walk or a short taxi to Bells Road. The nearest train station is Panmure (1 stop from Auckland CBD), and from Panmure catch a bus or taxi. Rideshares are easiest – they can drop you right at 78 Bells Road. Walking options exist (Lloyd Elsmore Park has pedestrian gates), but it’s quite far from the nearest bus stops.
How early should I arrive before an event at the club?
It depends on the event. For a normal club game, arriving 15–20 minutes before start time is usually fine (this allows time to find parking and a good viewing spot). For big matches or finals, come 30–45 minutes early to avoid queues and grab a seat. If there’s food trucks or bar service, early arrival lets you eat pre-match. Latecomers can enter anytime if the gates are open, but may have to find standing room. As a rule, err on the side of early to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.
Are outside chairs or picnic mats allowed during matches?
Yes. Spectators often bring folding chairs or blankets to sit on the grass around the field. There are no strict rules against portable seating – just be courteous and keep aisles clear. Avoid placing chairs on the actual field of play, of course. Picnic mats on the grass bank are fine. If you use a chair, consider its back may obscure whoever stands behind you, so placing it to the side or on soft ground is courteous. In short, feel free to make yourself comfortable outdoors.
Can I hold a private event or party at Pakuranga United Rugby Club?
Yes, the club is available for hire. They have multiple function rooms (Montressor’s, Dufty Bell Lounge, etc.) that you can book through the club’s events coordinator. These spaces are used for weddings, birthdays, meetings and corporate events. The club’s hire page advertises catering options and advanced AV equipment . You’ll need to contact the club directly to check availability and pricing (they do not list this publicly as it varies). In general, any weekday or weekend evening not booked by sports can be reserved by calling the functions manager or emailing the club.
What is the Dufty Bell Lounge and how is it used?
The Dufty Bell Lounge is one of the club’s upstairs function areas overlooking the main rugby field . It provides a “grandstand” style view of Bell Park. The lounge has a dance floor, stage, big projection screen and sound system (microphone and speakers) . It’s often hired for parties, award dinners or seminars, but on rugby days fans can go up there as a VIP viewing area. With its full bar service and large terrace, it combines a sports bar feel with a small events hall. Guests love Dufty Bell because you can watch live rugby from inside (or outside on the deck) while staying warm and dry.
Does Pakuranga United Rugby Club host netball and badminton?
Yes. In recent years the club has expanded beyond rugby. It added senior netball teams in 2012, so on winter evenings you’ll see netball matches on the netball courts behind the pavilion . The club’s facilities also include the Lloyd Elsmore Park badminton centre (“The Gym”), and club members and local teams use all 11 international-standard courts . Many Pakuranga players (and even top reps) train or play touch and badminton under the club banner alongside rugby. However, note that cup finals or special events for those sports are held under their own associations.
How often are rugby games played at Pakuranga United Rugby Club?
During Auckland’s rugby season (roughly April to August), Purc fields teams every weekend. The Premier (top) team usually plays on Saturday afternoons at Bell Park. Other grades (colts, U21, Presidents, Women’s, Under-85kg, etc.) have midweek or Sunday fixtures. In summer, you’ll see tournament games (like Sevens in January or touch rugby in the evening). Outside the season, club training also takes place at Bell Park. Exact days/times vary by competition and year, so check the club’s or Auckland Rugby’s current fixtures for the latest schedule.
What notable teams or events have been hosted at the venue?
Pakuranga has hosted several high-profile games. Notably, the club held an Auckland-Waikato NPC match in September 2023 . It also served as a site for the 2017 World Masters Games and a World Schools Sevens tournament . Locally, as mentioned, it ran a nationally significant Under-85kg (Black Panthers) program – Auckland champion teams have progressed to national playoffs . Internationally, the Italian rugby team trained here in the 1987 World Cup. On the club level, league titles and cup finals (like the Gallaher Shield in 2013) were won on-site . For entertainment events, it’s known for its summer sevens tours and community fairs rather than concerts.
How do I book the Montressors Function Centre or other rooms?
You need to contact the club directly for room bookings. Pakuranga does not take online reservations; instead, phone or email the club’s event coordinator. The facilities page notes that Montressor’s has multiple rooms (from a boardroom up to a large lounge) and full catering options . Give details (date, number of guests, type of event) to the functions manager, and they will send you a quote. Expect to discuss menu choices and audio-visual needs – the venue’s website even mentions advanced AV and in-house sound systems for events . In summary: plan ahead, call the club office, and their staff will handle the reservation.
What should I do if the weather is bad on the day of my visit?
Pakuranga’s fields are outdoors and the club assumes rugby will be played rain-or-shine. Small showers won’t necessarily cancel a match. If you’re attending an outdoor game in poor weather, wear waterproof gear and rubber-soled shoes (and possibly carry an umbrella, noting that sitting trunks can get muddy). For indoor events in Montressor’s or the lounge, you can arrive close to start time under cover. In extreme cases (thunderstorms or safety risks), the club would reschedule or cancel – check their website or social media for last-minute notices. Otherwise, plan for conditions: the Montressor’s Centre is heated and fully enclosed, so sitting inside is comfortable even if it’s stormy outside.
