Hundreds of rugby players, coaches and supporters are streaming into town for the Jock Hobbs Memorial National Under 19 Tournament that started on Sunday 27 September. 

It is the second year we have hosted the tournament at Owen Delany Park and it brings together teams from around the country consisting of about 400 players. 

District events manager Steve Giles said the tournament involved Under 19 teams from the 14 provincial regions, a second team from Auckland and a heartland squad. 

"We’ve all got a bit of rugby fever with the Rugby World Cup on at the moment so it’s a very well timed tournament," he said. "Team sport tournaments are part of what help make us the Events Capital of New Zealand so we’re thrilled to be able to welcome back the organisers, players and supporters for a second year." 

Key facts about the Tournament 
- 400 players across 16 teams 
- 14 teams representing each ITM Cup Provincial Union 
- A second team from the Auckland Union, reflecting that Union's high playing numbers 
- Heartland U19 team (combined team with at least one player from each of * the 12 Heartland Unions) 
- Three match days (Sun 27 Sept, Wed 30 Oct & Sat 3 Oct) 
- 24 matches (eight per match day) 
- Matches live on SKY Sport 
- All matches take place at Owen Delany Park, Taupo 
- Free admission Sun 27 Sept and Wed 30 with a $5 per person charge on Finals Day Sat 3 Oct

The tournament is on until October 3. The finals are being held on October 3 and entry is from 10am. Tickets are $5 for adults and free for children under 16.

Catch all the action at Owen Delany Park!

Games are on September 27 and 30, with gates opening at 10am. Entry is free on these days. Finals day is on October 3, with gates opening at 10am. Entry is $5 (cash only) for adults, and children under 16 are free. Eftpos is not available.

Click here for the tournament programme. 

For more information about the Finals event click here.

Source: Taupo District Council