The Women's Rugby League World Cup has arrived at Southern Cross Group Stadium, with 800 local school children featuring in the Opening Ceremony and New Zealand and Canada doing battle in the first match.
It was a colourufl opening with all the six nations competing in the World Cup recognised at the opening with 800 dancers on field and another 500 school children in the stands cheering them on.
Then following the festivities the Canadian and New Zealand national anthems were played before the Kiwis performed their traditional haka prior to the kickoff.
The first half was a competitive one, with the New Zealand girls going to the break ahead by just 10-4, before their superior rugby league knowledge and skills of the game took it toll on a brave Ravens outfit.
The final score of 50-4 to New Zealand didn't represent the brave effort given by their opponents, however it was a solid first hit out for one of the tournament hotshots and confirmed the Silver Ferns as one of the teams to beat at this year's World Cup.
In addition to the action on Southern Cross Group Stadium another 500 girls played in rugby league gala days at the Sharks Academy fields and at Captain Cook Oval in what was a huge day for the women's game.
The Australia v Cook Island match was due up next, with the Jillaroos warm favourites to begin their campaign with a victory.
Sharks Talesha Quinn will run out for the Jillaroos, with Ruan Sims and Corban McGregor to be saved for Sunday's second pool match.