The Jazz'n'Jocks event began with a jazz concert in Ranfurly last night and the activity shifts to Cromwell today, with a gala and rugby match planned.
Mr Lepper played more than 150 premier games for the Clyde rugby team before retiring 15 years ago. He was persuaded to polish his boots and revive his career, briefly, as one of a dozen "celebrities" to feature in a rugby match today.
He doubted there would be any concession from the opposition because of his role as mayor.
"In fact, I've been told they might come looking for me, instead," Mr Lepper said.
The two teams are mixed, with local players joining well-known sportsmen.
"I've polished the boots and gone for a few extra runs in preparation but I'm hoping there will be lots of younger, fitter people who can sub on."
He will join former Highlanders Brendan Laney, Romi Ropati, Nick Moore, Brendon Timmins and Paul Miller, together with former Southland and Hurricanes player Davin Heaps, former Wallaby Rob Lawton, former Warriors player Whetu Taewa, Blues rugby team strength and conditioning coach Mark Harvey, former All White Blair Scoullar and former national cricket representative Shayne O'Connor.
The curtain-raiser at 12.30 features two women's teams - one from the Maniototo and one from Cromwell, with the action taking place at Anderson Park.
The event forms part of the Real New Zealand festival, aimed at providing entertainment for Rugby World Cup visitors.
