The schedule sees the Hurricanes play their first fixture in Napier since 2003 and also return to Palmerston North for the first game since 2007, with matches scheduled against the Bulls and Western Force respectively.

Hurricanes CEO, Greg Peters said “2011 sees the start of an exciting new Super Rugby competition, which will kick off the biggest ever year for the game in this country. We’re thrilled to be able to take two of our home games out to the region, where and these will give supporters in both Hawke’s Bay and Palmerston North a great opportunity to cheer on their team, in their own backyard.

Hawke’s Bay CEO, Mike Bishop said “We are delighted to be hosting the Hurricanes in Napier for the first time since 2003 and it’s fantastic that they are playing against three-time Super Rugby champions, the Bulls. I’m sure our local fans will turn out it great numbers for such an attractive fixture.”

The full Hurricanes home draw is as follows:

v Highlanders, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm Friday 18 February
v Crusaders, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm Saturday 26 February
v Chiefs, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm Saturday 12 March
v Bulls, McLean Park, Napier – 7.35pm Saturday 2 April
v Reds, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm Saturday 30 April
v Blues, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm Friday 6 May
v Force, FMG Stadium, Palmerston North – 7.35pm Friday 27 May
v Lions, Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 5.30pm Saturday 4 June