Hawke's Bay will get the opportuntity to play for promotion to provincial rugby's ITM Cup Premiership division after beating Otago 29-24 in their Championship semi-final clash in Dunedin.
Otago led the match early, but the Magpies edged ahead with a try to Alby Mathewson on the stroke of half-time giving them a 16-10 lead at the break.
Hawke's Bay took advantage of a yellow card to Otago prop, Scott Manson, after halftime, with a try to Richard Buckman extending their lead to 16 points.
The home side came back into the match late with tries to Gareth Evans and Tom Franklin, but couldn't finish the job.
Hawke's Bay will meet Tasman in the final on Friday in Nelson, with the winner to be promoted to the top division for next season.
