The SBS Bank Southland Stags are heading to Riverton as part of their 2026 pre-season schedule, bringing top-level provincial rugby to one of Southland’s most passionate grassroots communities.

The Stags will take on traditional rivals Otago on Friday, July 17th at the Riverton Rugby Club, NZ's eighth oldest club at 152 years, in a mid-afternoon fixture, in partnership with Alliance Group — one of Riverton’s largest employers and a supporter of the region.

The match provides a valuable opportunity for fans across Southland to connect with the team ahead of the upcoming season, while also celebrating the deep ties between rugby, farming, and community.

Alliance Group Chief Executive Niall Browne says the organisation is proud to help bring the game to Riverton.

“The Alliance team and our farmer-suppliers in Southland are really excited about the pre-season kicking off in Riverton,” says Browne.“It will be a great opportunity for the team to connect with fans across the province and set the tone for the season ahead.

“We’re looking forward to hosting Southland’s largest meat raffle - it’s a fantastic initiative that will bring the community together and celebrate the province’s strong connection to farming and rugby.

“As a business, we’re passionate about backing our communities as much as we are about producing world-class lamb, beef and venison. We’ll be right behind the Stags this season and wish them all the best for a strong year ahead.”

Adding to the occasion, spectators in attendance will have the chance to win “Southland’s largest meat raffle” at halftime — simply by being at the game — further reinforcing the community-focused nature of the event.

Southland Stags Head Coach Scott Eade says the fixture is an important part of both preparation and connection.

“Taking a game to Riverton is something we’re really excited about. It’s a strong rugby community and an important part of our province,” said Eade.

“Pre-season is about building combinations and setting standards, but it’s also about getting out and connecting with our supporters. The backing we get right across Southland means a lot to this group.

“Otago is always a great contest, so it’s a perfect way to test ourselves ahead of the season while giving fans a quality rugby experience close to home.

“It’s also a special occasion for Richard Jones, who joins our coaching group this season and is an assistant principal at Aparima College. Having the team play in Riverton creates a real connection for him, and it’ll be a great buzz for the students to see someone from their school involved at this level and to acknowledge his success.”

The Stags encourage fans from across the region to make the trip to Riverton for what promises to be a memorable afternoon of rugby, community spirit, and Southland pride.