A small but dedicated group of Chiefs supporters farewelled their team in the early hours of Monday morning as the team left for South Africa for its first final in rugby's Super 14 competition.
About 20 supporters braved the cold to farewell the players as they left by bus from Waikato Stadium at 3am, heading to Auckland Airport.
Chiefs Coach Ian Foster says he was very impressed with the turnout at that time of day, which he said was a great reflection of the great support the team has received.
Foster says while it will be a massive task to beat the Bulls, he has confidence in his side.
