Honorary title for Highlander

The fearsome Highlander who features prominently in all Super 14 publicity for the Otago based rugby team will be presented with honorary citizenship by Palmerston North Mayor, Jono Naylor, on Friday.

The warrior who resembles movie star, Mel Gibson in Braveheart, will be piped into the Square by a lone piper at about 12.30pm and will be presented with the symbolic title by the Mayor in front of I-Site.

The presentation will celebrate the first Super 14 game to be played outside the traditional boundaries of the two teams, the Highlanders and the Bulls from South Africa.

"We want the Highlanders to know that the FMG Stadium can be their home ground away from home," Jono Naylor says.

"Saturday’s match isn't just about watching Super 14 rugby but it will showcase our city, its venue and our ability to draw a large crowd."

Jono Naylor wants to encourage as many people as possible to attend the game which will feature the top of the table side, the Bulls.