Panthers is delighted to announce the club will break new ground by taking an NRL home game to Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2016.
The match, with support from Christchurch City Council, will see the Panthers play a home fixture in the city for the next two NRL seasons, with an option for an additional two years.
Panthers Executive General Manager Phil Gould AM heralded the deal as a significant step in the growth and development of rugby league.
"Panthers is extremely excited about the opportunity to take NRL football to the city of Christchurch," Mr Gould said.
"Over the next four years we hope to build a strong relationship with the area and have committed ourselves to the promotion and development of rugby league through junior league and schools programs.
"I know this joint venture with Christchurch will prove to be an outstanding success."
Panthers also confirmed the club would be taking its Round Nine game against Canberra Raiders to Carrington Park, Bathurst. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.
Located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch last hosted an NRL fixture in 2010 when the Roosters tackled the Warriors at AMI Stadium. The devastating earthquake of 2011 saw major sporting fixtures moved away from the city but the Panthers are proud to help bring NRL back to region.
Event organiser Justin Wallace said the people of Christchurch love their rugby league and will embrace the arrival of the Panthers in 2016.
"Penrith actually have a strong history with Christchurch dating back to the 1980's when junior teams were regular visitors to the city," he said.
"The opportunity to host this game and work with the local rugby league body on initiatives to grow the game here and throughout the South Island is very exciting.
"Christchurch is a traditional stronghold for rugby league so this game should see a sell-out crowd at AMI Stadium."
The timing and opponent for the Christchurch fixture will be revealed when the 2016 NRL draw is released later on Friday. Stay tuned to penrithpanthers.com.au for the latest updates.
