Representatives from Bay of Plenty Sevens teams have had the chance to get up close and personal with Tauranga Riding for the Disabled riders and volunteers.

A selection of players and representatives have visited the grounds to experience a behind-the-scenes view of the work being done by the organisation.

Tauranga RDA are one of three charities who have partnered with Bay of Plenty Rugby Union and TECT for the TECT National Sevens.

A partnership with Good Neighbour and Coastguard has also been established, with a selection of players attending Good Neighbour on Thursday.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Mike Rogers says the partnerships are invaluable.

'TECT and Bay of Plenty Rugby wanted to link in with a number of charities around Tauranga – being the developing city within the Bay of Plenty.

'We've done this by connecting with Tauranga Riding for the Disabled, Good Neighbours and Coastguard.

'We are in quite a lucky position where through our network we are able to find these organisations to work with.

'Building partnerships like this is a great way to help to strengthen the community.”

Each of the organisations supported by BOPRU and TECT will be given a number of tickets, giving volunteers the chance to enjoy a day out at the event, says Mike.

'This is just a small way to recognise the massive contribution, work and time these volunteers put in throughout the year.

'Our players are visiting the organisations as well to see the difference being made by each of them.”

Tauranga RDA manager Elisha Olds says it's grateful for the support.

'Our volunteers do so much and to be able to give back to them and reward them with something fun to do in the community is great. Having the Sevens in Tauranga is exciting in itself.

'This partnership enables us to build awareness for what we do and get that community outreach which is so important.

'We're quite privileged in that the community support for what we do is already quite strong.

'I love showing people what we do. The kids think it's pretty cool having the players here too.”

Carlos Price and Rewita Biddle Biddle are some of many players who were part of today's visit to Tauranga RDA.

'I've grown up around horses myself, so it's interesting seeing the work they're doing here.

"It's always cool to get off the field, and into the community to do that extra work.”