Rugby fans in Auckland will have another reason to celebrate when the British & Irish Lions come to town with the announcement of the inaugural Auckland Rugby Gala Dinner.

A week out from the first Test match, the Gala Dinner will be hosted at the home of rugby, Eden Park on June 15th.

Auckland Rugby Lions Project Manager Grant McKenzie said it promises to be an extraordinary event and has already had considerable interest.

“This is an exciting time for rugby fans in Auckland and we wanted to create a quality event to match the hype that this tour brings to the country.

“This gala dinner will see world class guest speakers and excellent hospitality and early indications are that it is going to be extremely popular,” said McKenzie.

The keynote speaker is Will Greenwood, World Cup winner with England and British & Irish Lions representative on three tours. 

“Will has become a highly sought after speaker and it’s a real honour that he’s agreed to join us on this special occasion,” said McKenzie.

A panel of guest speakers will also be on hand, including All Black great Grant Fox, to share their insights throughout the night.

McKenzie was delighted to announce that Barfoot & Thompson were the major sponsor of the Gala Dinner.

“Barfoot and Thompson are a wonderful long term sponsor of Auckland Rugby and I am delighted that they see fit to support this new initiative”

For ticket enquires to the Auckland Rugby Gala dinner please email events@aucklandrugby.co.nz.