It's been a long time between drinks, but top flight rugby is finally returning to Tauranga Domain in the shape of a classic Bay of Plenty-Waikato clash.

After seven years without a fixture, the iconic venue will be back on national TV with the ITM Cup fixture set down for Sunday August 30 at 2.35pm – one of two matches away from ASB Baypark.

ITM Cup Rugby will return to Tauranga Domain when the Bay of Plenty Steamers take on Waikato in August. Photos: Bruce Barnard.

The last fixture at the Domain was against Hawke's Bay back in July 2009, with the Steamers boasting an impressive line-up including current captain Culum Retallick, Colin Bourke, Mike Delany and Zar Lawrence.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive Mike Rogers believes this will be a unique experience for supporters with a festival atmosphere in the CBD generated on the day.

'Playing Waikato at 2.35pm in the centre of town at a venue with such an amazing history and tradition is something I can't wait for,” says Mike.

'I believe that this is one of those games that people will be talking about for years to come.”

The Tauranga Domain fixture has received excellent support from all major parties involved including Tauranga City Council, Sky TV and New Zealand Rugby Management, but is still reliant on final New Zealand Rugby Board approval on May 28.

Temporary seating will be erected to increase capacity and create an enclosure around the field that will have supporters right on the edge of the action.

In 2014, the Steamers finished bottom of the Championship Division having won just two matches and losing eight. Waikato claimed sixth spot in the Premiership Division with a 4-6 record.

In recent seasons the traditional rivals and Kaimai neighbours have had the wood over the Steamers, having won the over last two years, 29-12 at Waikato Stadium and 28-25 at ASB Baypark in 2013.

But one of those players fortunate enough to play in the heart of the city is new Steamers coach Clayton McMillan, who fondly recalls two of his most memorable matches held at the Domain.

He played his 100th match for the union there and captained the Steamers to victory in the NPC Second Division final against Nelson Bays in 2000. McMillan played 113 games for the Steamers, scoring 22 tries, after making his debut in 1995.

'Temporary stands were erected around the ground bringing supporters closer than ever to the action,” recalls McMillan.

'It created an electric atmosphere and was very intimidating to visiting teams. A return to those fond days would be magic.”

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby says Tauranga City Council is pleased to support the match.

'Major events add to the energy and vibrancy of a city, and help create opportunities for businesses and residents,” says Stuart.

'Major sporting fixtures, like ITM Cup games, help develop Tauranga as a major events destination and celebrate our city.

'The recent Anzac Day combined civic memorial service that was held at Tauranga Domain was an example of how adaptable and central this venue is.”