Safety concerns at division three rugby match in Hastings - led the referee to abandon the game

The game, between home side Tamatea Arikinui and visiting team Young Maori Party at Bill Mathewson Park, started in good spirits.

But it ended 15 minutes early - after a Tamatea Arikinui player was floored by a big tackle.

Multiple supporters took to the field, pulling out weapons including knives.

The Young Maori Party team were chased off by Mongrel Mob members and associates.

Images of the team's van, shared with Hawke's Bay Today, show close to 50 shotgun holes in its back window.