Rugby – It’s in Our Blood

If there’s one thing that unites us across towns, islands and generations in Aotearoa – New Zealand, it’s rugby. Whether it’s a backyard game with cousins, a packed-out stadium humming with excitement or a classic night in with whānau and friends — a hearty feed, a drink in hand, yelling at the TV and the living room bursting into utter chaos each time your team scores — that’s the magic of rugby in Aotearoa.

A Brief History of Rugby in Aotearoa

Rugby was introduced to New Zealand in the 1870s and quickly became a national obsession. By 1905, the All Blacks were already making waves on the world stage during their legendary “Originals” tour of the Northern Hemisphere. With their unmatched haka, fierce skill and humility, the team helped shape what would become one of the most successful and respected legacies in sporting history.

But it’s not just about the black jersey. It’s about every grassroots club, muddy training session and early morning sideline. From local paddocks to packed-out stadiums, rugby is embedded in the DNA of our communities.

The Rise of the Black Ferns

For decades, the All Blacks were the most well-known rugby team in the world. These days, the wahine toa (our powerful women) are standing just as tall. Since their unforgettable win at the 2022 Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Black Ferns have captured the hearts of the nation and inspired fans around the world. We were lucky enough to be at every game and witnessing them take home the gold was something truly special. It’s a feeling that’s hard to put into words — one you can only understand if you’ve been there in the stands, cheering your team to victory. Their speed, power and passion are unmatched and they’ve inspired a new generation of players and fans alike. The girls aren’t just keeping up — they’re leading the charge.

Fierce, Hearty, Loyal – The Fans

Rugby fans in Aotearoa aren’t just passionate, we’re fiercely loyal. Whether you’re repping red and black for the Canterbury Crusaders, cowbells ringing for the Waikato Chiefs, backing the Auckland Blues, braving the wind with the Wellington Hurricanes or riding the southern pride of the Otago Highlanders, our teams are a source of pride, identity and a bit of friendly banter.

These teams aren’t just clubs. They’re where our legends are born. Where kids dream of one day pulling on the jersey. Where communities rally together, win or lose.

It’s Personal – A Whānau Legacy

Toni has her own quiet story when it comes to rugby — it was a huge part of her life. Years of hard work and dedication to the game paid off. She got to wear the silver fern, representing Aotearoa – New Zealand in the 1998 Rugby World Cup as a Black Fern. These days, we make it a point to get to as many Black Ferns games in Aotearoa as we can — standing in the crowd, backing the girls with pride and respect.

For me, rugby was never just on the telly — it was life. Growing up, it was the only sport we watched together as a whānau. My dad proudly represented the New Zealand Army in rugby and we all played at school.

Our sons have played the game too, each carrying that legacy forward in their own way. And I’ve got no doubt that one day, our mokopuna will lace up their boots and hit the field as well. It’s not a maybe — it’s in their blood.

Built into Our Bones

Here in Aotearoa, rugby is a feeling. It’s early morning chills at junior games, it’s pride during the national anthem and its chaos in the lounge when the ref makes a dodgy call. You feel haka echoing through the air and the pride of wearing your team’s colours. It’s whānau, mana and community — all wrapped up in 80 minutes.

Kiwis are hardcase fans. You won’t hear us chanting and singing like some countries, but don’t mistake our quiet for a lack of passion. We watch the game with full focus, hearts racing when we get a clean break, a few fuzzy words flying when the ref gets it wrong and absolute uproar when our team crosses the line. Then we sit back down, catch our breath and get ready to go again. Honestly, it’s worth coming just to watch the crowd — we’re a whole experience on our own.

So whether you’re a diehard fan or just enjoy the vibe when the game’s on, one thing is clear — rugby runs deep here. It always has and it always will.

If you love rugby and want to catch a game while visiting Aotearoa during the season (which usually runs from late February through to October), you won’t have to look far. The All Blacks and Black Ferns both have official websites with match schedules and ticket info. But honestly, if you’re in a town on a Saturday afternoon, just head down to the local rugby grounds — chances are, there’ll be a game on. From grassroots club matches to high-energy provincial clashes, there’s always something happening on the field.

And if you’re planning to travel around the country, what better way to experience it than by campervan? Pull up near the local rugby grounds, fire up the jug, and soak up the atmosphere like a true Kiwi. Whether it’s a muddy field in a small town or a packed-out stadium for the All Blacks or Black Ferns, there’s nothing quite like experiencing rugby on the road — it’s one of the best ways to see Aotearoa through the eyes of its people.