The Avis Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic will bring one of the ANZ Premiership’s most anticipated rivalry fixtures to Tauranga for the first time, with the Hobbiton Cup on the line when they take on the GoSweetSpot Northern Mystics at Mercury Baypark Arena on Saturday 18 April.
While the Magic regularly host matches in Tauranga, this will mark the first time the Hobbiton Cup has been played in the Bay of Plenty, adding an extra layer of significance to an already fierce northern rivalry.
A recognised feature of Magic vs Mystics encounters, the Hobbiton Cup celebrates the connection between the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions and adds further intrigue to the on-court contest.
For the Magic, bringing this fixture to Tauranga carries special meaning, with the city serving as an important training base for the team and consistently delivering strong crowd support.
Head Coach Mary-Jane Araroa said it was fitting to showcase the Hobbiton Cup in a region that plays a vital role in the team’s identity.
“Tauranga is a place we spend a lot of time in across the season, so to be able to bring a game like this here, and one with the Hobbiton Cup on the line, is really meaningful for us,” she said.
“We know how strong the support is in this region. These games are usually sold out, and the crowd plays a big part in the experience for our players.”
The Magic will also wear their Hobbiton Cup dress for the fixture, marking the occasion and adding a distinctive visual element to the rivalry on court.
Shayne Forrest, General Manager Tourism at Hobbiton Movie Set, said they were proud to support both Magic and the ANZ Premiership.
“The Hobbiton Cup is something we’re really proud to support, particularly as part of our connection with Magic and the Waikato region,” they said.
“Bringing the Hobbiton Cup to Tauranga for the first time is an exciting moment, and the Hobbiton-themed activations will add a distinctive element for fans to enjoy.”
Supporters attending the Tauranga fixture can look forward to a vibrant game-day atmosphere, including music, entertainment, fan activations and post-match opportunities to connect with players.
With a history of capacity crowds at Mercury Baypark Arena, the fixture is shaping as one of the standout home games of the Magic’s 2026 ANZ Premiership season.
Match Details:
Avis Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic vs Mystics
Saturday 18 April, 7pm
Mercury Baypark Arena, Tauranga
