The Black Ferns are set for daytime kickoffs during the Pacific Four series. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
A series of afternoon kick-offs in Hamilton, Christchurch and Auckland is the feature of the Black Ferns Pacific Four Series schedule as they seek to defend their title.
New Zealand will start their Pacific Four Series against the US in Hamilton on Saturday 11 May at 2.05pm, before heading south to Ōtautahi Christchurch to play Canada at 4.35pm on Sunday 19 May.
North Harbour Stadium will host the trans-Tasman battle against Australia on Saturday 25 May at 2.05pm, with the fixture doubling as the opening Test of the O'Reilly Cup.
The results of the Pacific Four Series will also dictate the Black Ferns WXV schedule later in the year with the top three sides gaining qualification for WXV1 and the bottom placed team destined for WXV2.
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said he's looking forward to some daytime rugby.
"We are thrilled to have our Black Ferns starting their year on home soil. It's a fantastic opportunity for all our fans to get behind our incredible wāhine toa.
"To have the Pacific Four Series matches hosted across Aotearoa-New Zealand is part of our wider strategy to ensure we are showcasing our Black Ferns to a wide audience, inspiring future generations, and allowing the team to connect with fans throughout the country."
Black Ferns 2024 Fixtures:
World Rugby Pacific Four Series:
Black Ferns v USA, Saturday 11 May, 2.05pm, FMG Stadium Waikato, HAMILTON
Black Ferns v Canada, Sunday 19 May, 4.35pm, Apollo Projects Stadium, CHRISTCHURCH
Black Ferns vs. Australia, 2.05pm, Saturday 25 May, North Harbour Stadium, AUCKLAND (Doubles as the first O'Reilly Cup Test)
O'Reilly Cup:
Australia vs. Black Ferns - Sunday 14 July, Ballymore Stadium, Brisbane, AUSTRALIA