Nelson has displayed its Rugby World Cup passion with a "spine-tingling" haka in the town's centre.

Several thousand spectators lined Trafalgar St to witness the powerful haka performed by about 1000 Nelson College students on the steps of Nelson's Christ Church Cathedral today.

The haka was a tribute to New Zealand's first rugby game, played in Nelson in 1870.

Nelson College is the oldest state secondary school in New Zealand, with a string of famous old boys, including Charles Monro, the father of New Zealand rugby.

Applause spread throughout the packed crowed after the boys performed their haka, led by deputy Maori head boy Te Wera Mihaere.

Nelson College student Callum Foleylogan said they had been practising hard at school, but it felt like "everyone went all out" on the Church Steps.

"It's quite magic being part of history," he said.

Spectator Nigel Muir, of Nelson, said the boys performance was "absolutely spine-tingling".

"I loved it."

Mr Muir said it was "a big day for Nelson", with the Italy and Russia game - Nelson's first match - at Trafalgar Park tonight.

A horse-drawn carriage afterwards transported Nelson's mayor and mayoress, Aldo and Kim Miccio, to the Botanics Reserve, where a re-enactment of the first game was to take place.

Two teams were to face of using 1870 rugby rules, in replica costumes and surrounded by supporters dressed in Victorian era clothing.