Canterbury will play Tasman in the Premiership final of provincial rugby, a repeat of last years decider.
Tim Bateman of Canterbury scores a try during the Mitre 10 Cup Semi-Final rugby match Canterbury V North Harbour, 2017 Photo: PHOTOSPORT
In the semi-finals Canterbury beat North Harbour 35-24 in Christchurch and Tasman beat Taranaki 30-29 in New Plymouth.
For reigning Premiership champions Canterbury it will be their ninth final in ten years.
Canterbury were ahead by just a point with five minutes to play before experienced centre Tim Bateman crossed the line to seal the win.
Canterbury scored four tries to three.
Meanwhile Tasman repeated their semifinal victory against the same opponent at the same venue last year and will meet Super Rugby franchise partner Canterbury in Saturday's final.
Tasman first five-eighths Mitchell Hunt scored 25 points for his side, from a try, a conversion and six penalty goals.
Taranaki scored four tries to two.
Since the new format of provincial rugby started in 2006 Canterbury has won the title eight times.
Tasman has played two finals, losing to Taranaki in 2014 and Canterbury in 2016.
