In an impressive display of fan support, the Warriors have sold out 41 of their last 46 home games since returning to New Zealand after COVID-19 restrictions.
As a result, the NRL has decided to hold the Warriors' week-two final at Mt Smart Stadium, but there are plans in place for a potential shift to Eden Park for a preliminary final.
Peter V'landys, the ARL Commission chairman, mentioned that Eden Park, with its 50,000-seat capacity, is likely to host the match should the Warriors advance further in the playoffs.
"I'd say you'd be 90 per cent sure that we'll be going to Eden Park," V'landys stated, highlighting discussions with the club about the need for larger accommodations.
Even though the Warriors prefer to stay at their home ground, they acknowledge the overwhelming demand for tickets, which suggests a move to the larger stadium might be necessary.
Warriors veteran Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who suffered an injury this season, expressed the strong sentimental value of Mt Smart. He stated, "Mt Smart is home, especially for the members," emphasizing the importance of keeping the traditional venue for loyal fans.
While Tuivasa-Sheck has fond memories of Mt Smart, he also recognizes the need to accommodate additional fans, saying, "But if we can get more at Eden Park, we'll take that too."
The excitement surrounding the Warriors illustrates a broader conversation about the possibility of adding a second New Zealand team to the NRL by 2029.
For Tuivasa-Sheck, who grew up in Auckland, the recent popularity of rugby league demonstrates a significant shift in the local sports landscape, where once rugby was supreme.
He remarked on the growing support for rugby league, stating, "You come to New Zealand at the moment and you see all the 'Up the Wahs'. It's awesome."