Canterbury fans will have the chance to show their support for the Black Ferns this weekend, as a giant travelling poi makes its way to Rugby Park in Christchurch.

The Black Ferns, six-time Rugby World Cup champions, are departing for England to defend their title, and New Zealanders are once again being encouraged to pick up the poi to get behind the team.

During the 2021 Rugby World Cup, played in 2022, poi became a powerful symbol of support, uniting fans in homes, classrooms, and stadiums across the country.

This year, the centrepiece is Poi Tautoko, a custom-built 2.5 metre poi that is travelling around New Zealand collecting messages of support for the team.

On Saturday 23 August, Poi Tautoko will be at Rugby Park during the Farah Palmer Cup clash between Canterbury and Counties Manukau. Fans will be able to sign the poi and leave personal messages for the Black Ferns before their opening pool match.

Black Fern and Matatū player Amy Rule said the support meant a great deal to the team.

“It meant so much to us seeing people pick up the poi in 2022. We felt that support every time we ran out. Knowing New Zealand is behind us again gives us strength, and we’ll carry that with us in England. Christchurch has always shown so much love for women’s rugby, and we’d love to see everyone come out, sign the piki poi, and leave their messages of support for the Black Ferns.”

Gates at Rugby Park open from 1.30pm.