New Zealand Rugby, the governing body for rugby in the country, has expressed its support for a scathing review of the sport’s structure and called for significant reform. The review, which was released in August, criticized the current governance model as unfit for purpose and highlighted the need for a new board to be appointed. In response, NZ Rugby chair Dame Patsy Reddy stated that the board agrees with the review panel’s findings and the necessity for structural changes.
Dame Patsy emphasized the importance of clarity, alignment, and mutual accountability in rugby in New Zealand. The board plans to engage with stakeholders, including the provincial unions and the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board, to discuss how governance reform can be achieved. This consultation period will begin immediately and conclude at the end of October, with the intention of reaching a broad consensus for successful implementation of the proposed changes.
The scathing review not only highlighted the shortcomings of the current governance model but also raised concerns about unsustainable competitions and financial struggles within the sport. The provincial unions, which currently hold considerable power, will need to relinquish some of their control for meaningful change to occur. This prospect could lead to a robust consultation period as provincial pride and legacy clash with the necessity for modernization.
The New Zealand Rugby Players Association has already supported the findings of the review. The recommendations put forward in the review include the creation of an independent professional process to appoint a competent and independent board and the establishment of a Stakeholder Council to ensure all key voices in rugby are heard.
The 26 chairs of the provincial unions released a holding statement in August, expressing their commitment to serving their rugby communities and considering the findings of the review carefully. The next NZ Rugby Annual General Meeting is scheduled for April next year, which could provide the platform for implementing any necessary changes.
It is clear that structural reform is imperative to address the issues identified in the review. With NZ Rugby backing the scathing review, there is hope for positive change in the governance and overall sustainability of rugby in New Zealand. The consultation process with stakeholders will be a crucial step in achieving a consensus that paves the way for successful structural changes in NZ Rugby.
