About NZU Rugby
Our Legacy and Future
Welcome to the New Zealand Universities Rugby Football Council (NZU Rugby), the cornerstone of university rugby within New Zealand.
Our mission is rooted in tradition yet driven by a forward-looking vision, where the classic game of rugby acts as a bridge connecting education, culture, and competitive spirit.
Established in 1908, NZU Rugby has evolved from pioneering inter-university matches to becoming a respected entity in New Zealand’s rugby landscape.
Our history is filled with remarkable achievements, including memorable victories against international rugby stalwarts like the Springboks and British & Irish Lions. Today, we're not just about maintaining traditions; we're about creating a vibrant future for our players on and off the field.
What We Do
Our purpose is clear
Promote & Develop
We're committed to elevating rugby at university level, offering a structured competitive environment that fosters talent and sportsmanship.
Support & Encourage
From men and women players to officials and team management, NZU Rugby is a nurturing ground for all, providing support to affiliated clubs and members.
Create Pathways
In collaboration with Rugby For Life, we help players from diverse backgrounds transition from university fields to the prestigious black jersey of NZU Rugby.
Who We Do It For
For Universities
We provide a platform for students to excel in their sport while pursuing academic goals, enhancing the university experience through spirited rugby competition.
For Alumni
Our robust network includes individuals who have both shaped and been shaped by NZU Rugby. This influential community fosters deep connections and ongoing support for the sport.
For Players
Every match is a pathway to greater opportunities in New Zealand and internationally. Our development programs provide exposure, experience, and lifelong friendships.
Our Commitment
As we look to the future, NZU Rugby is dedicated to igniting passion and enhancing the rugby experience. With plans to introduce a separate inter-university competition and innovative rules, we're set to redefine university rugby, making it more engaging and sustainable.
Join us as we continue to build on our rich heritage, crafting a thrilling chapter in New Zealand’s rugby narrative. Whether you’re a player, alumni, or rugby enthusiast, NZU Rugby is where heroes are made, and legacies are born.
Learn. Lead. Excel Together. We Are NZU Rugby.
New Zealand Universities Rugby Football Council
The council structure reflects NZU Rugby’s ethos of fostering strong connections, on and off the rugby field. Members serve as more than administrators, championing a collegial, team-oriented philosophy that resonates with players, the seven universities and nine university clubs, and alumni.
Lifelong friendships, both as peers and with players, remain at the heart of NZU Rugby’s core values.
John Sproat - President
Ben Koch - Vice-President
Andy Hall - Vice-President
Barry Hayman - Secretary/Treasurer
Andrew Sturgeon - Assistant Secretary
Roger Drummond - Immediate Past President
David Kirk - Patron
Sir Derek Lardelli - Matua
NZU Rugby Delegates
University of Auckland
Auckland University RFC – Dave Hutchens
University of Waikato
University of Waikato RC - Grant Jamieson
Massey University
Palmerston North - Massey University RFC - John Whitehead
Hawke's Bay - EIT - Napier Pirates - Graham Atkins
Victoria University of Wellington
Old Boys University RC – Ian Kennedy
University of Canterbury
University of Canterbury RFC - Mark Meates
Lincoln University
Lincoln University RFC - Peter Magson
University of Otago
Otago University RFC - Paul Hessian
Recognising Life Members
Life Members, acknowledged under Rule 7 of the Constitution, represent the esteemed lineage of individuals who’ve made significant contributions to the organisation. Their collective experience spans decades, ensuring the voice of history remains a guiding influence for the modern era.
Sir Graeme Harrison
[2013]
Tsuguo Suzuki-san
[2013]
Naoya Kakizoe-san
[2013] - ex Nissui
John Sproat
[2014]
Roger Drummond
[2015]
Peter Garty
[2017]
Mark Meates
[2017]
David Kirk
[2021]
John Whitehead
[2021]
Paul Hessian
[2021]
Sir Derek Lardelli
[2021]
Barry Hayman
[2021]
NZU Rugby Coaching Team
Each year, NZU Rugby assembles top coaching teams from across Aotearoa to prepare for upcoming tours. With dedicated Rugby Directors for both men’s and women’s programmes, NZU Rugby focuses on developing quality pathways, fostering strong teams, and this ensures the delivery of competitive rugby that showcases the finest university players on the global stage.
Scott Lewis - Mens Coach
Muz Sujau - Mens Manager
Peter Magson - Mens Rugby Director
Dave Jensen - Womens Coach
Janelle Schreiber - Womens Manager & Womens Rugby Director
Andy Hall - Sponsorship
John Sproat - Sponsorship
Andrew Steel - Communication
TBC - Archivist
NZU Rugby Selection
Selectors identify top talent from University Rugby Clubs, reviewing match footage provided by the clubs to assess players. This process helps build wider squads and teams in preparation for upcoming tours.
QUICK LINKS
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Phone: +64 21 0234 6354
Email: secretary@nzurugby.com
Postal: Secretary
8 Prendiville Lane, Greytown 5712
