Hāwera to Host Top-Tier Sal’s NBL Basketball Game
South Taranaki is gearing up to host an exciting night of high-calibre basketball when the Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) arrives in Hāwera on Wednesday 28 May. The TSB Hub will welcome the Property Brokers Manawatū Jets as they take on the Southland Sharks in what promises to be a thrilling mid-season showdown.
The opportunity to bring a Sal’s NBL fixture to Hāwera arose when the Jets’ usual home venue in Palmerston North was unavailable for the scheduled date.
Staff from South Taranaki District Council and representatives of the Hāwera Basketball Association worked closely with the Jets management team to explore options and meet the necessary requirements, leading to the TSB Hub being confirmed as the host venue.
The choice acknowledges the venue’s quality facilities and reflects the positive reputation South Taranaki is building for its support of a range of prominent events.
With both teams firmly in the playoff race, the matchup is expected to be fiercely contested. The resurgent Jets are currently 4th on the ladder with an 8–4 record, while the Southland Sharks sit at 5–6 as they push for a top-six finish.
Adding to the excitement, the monthly Bizlink Hāwera Business After 5 event will take place at the TSB Hub on Tuesday 27 May, the night before the game. Hosted by TSB with the Manawatū Jets as special guests, the evening will include networking, nibbles, a panel discussion with Jets players and management, and a prize draw featuring tickets to the game.
South Taranaki Mayor Phil Nixon says the district is ready to put on a show both on and off the court.
“The TSB Hub is a top venue, and we’re thrilled to be hosting this high-profile, nationally televised NBL fixture,” said Mayor Nixon. “South Taranaki is well known for our warm hospitality, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from Manawatū and Southland. This is a great opportunity to showcase what our district has to offer and to give some of our accommodation and hospitality businesses a boost. It’s also going to be a great event for a lot of local basketball fans to enjoy.”
Corey Webster, who is a Tall Blacks centurion and current national team captain, has been enjoying a standout season at guard for the Manawatu Jets.
This season has been enjoyable so far— the team’s in a good place and the support from our fans has been awesome,” said Webster. “We’re excited to be playing in Hāwera. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring high-level basketball to South Taranaki, and I’m confident fans from both Manawatū and the local area will turn out in force. The atmosphere should be something special, and we’re looking forward to putting on a strong performance”.
Fans attending the event will be treated to a full evening of entertainment. Sky Broadband Rapid League action tips off at 6pm, followed by the main game at 7pm. A range of game day activities will keep the energy high throughout the night, including halftime entertainment featuring two local junior basketball teams.
Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith is encouraging South Taranaki residents and Mayor Phil Nixon to head along for the NBL game.
“We’re proud of our regional Manawatu Jets and the strong season they’re having. We’d encourage our close neighbours in Taranaki to head along and watch the game. And if they become big fans too, we’d love to see them back in Palmerston North for the rest of the games. The city wishes the team all the best as they take this home game on the road to Hāwera, and we’re sure they’ll represent Manawatū well. Hopefully we’ll see both Manawatū and our close friends in Taranaki battling it out at the business end of the season.”
General admission and premium hospitality packages are now available, with corporate ticket holders set to enjoy a pre-game buffet dinner and a meet and greet with some of the Jets’ team.
For more information and to secure your tickets, visit thejets.flicket.co.nz
