The Waratahs will host the Japanese side in the Hunter on March 29. 

NSW Rugby chief executive Andrew Hore said it was a significant chapter in the history of the team to bring the match to Newcastle. 

The shift comes as Allianz Stadium is knocked down and rebuilt as part of the state government’s $1.5 billion stadium plan. 

“The NSW Waratahs are a state team and the next three years provide us with a great opportunity to take Super Rugby to different venues and showcase the game from the bush to the beach,” Mr Hore said. 

“The City of Newcastle, as the official sponsor, are working with us hand in hand to deliver what promises to be a great event.  Their support has been a tremendous and we are delighted to take our NSW Waratahs to a strong rugby region.”

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes described the result as a “major coup for the city”. 

"We’re proud to be the inaugural beneficiaries of the NSW Waratahs’ first foray outside of Sydney, particularly for a competition which has now achieved true international status with the addition of Japanese and Argentinean teams,” Cr Nelmes said. 

Cowra-born Waratahs prop Harry Johnson-Holmes, who went to school in Newcastle, staid playing home games in regional areas “that represent our diverse supporter base” was fantastic. 

“I am proud to call Newcastle home and the prospect of being able to play in front of my family and friends is exciting,” he said.