Te Puni Kōkiri supports Centenary of Māori Rugby

Te Puni Kōkiri chief executive, Leith Comer today confirmed that Te Puni Kōkiri would be contributing up to $200,000 to assist the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) with their Centenary plans and events celebrating 100 years of Māori Rugby.

“I think that the contribution Māori All Blacks have made to this country ranks alongside the contribution that members of the 28th Māori Battalion have made. One on the battle field, and the other on the sports field. Both have contributed to us as a nation and both have helped to build the bridge between Māori and non-Māori in this country. As this year is the Centenary of Maori Rugby it is most appropriate that we celebrate their contribution” he said.

“The NZRU has organised an impressive three game programme with matches in Whangarei, Rotorua and Napier. While the opponents for the Whangarei match are still to be confirmed the opportunity for the Māori All Blacks to play full test matches against Ireland and England is due recognition for their past impressive record.

Te Puni Kōkiri recognises the New Zealand Māori Rugby Centenary as an important milestone for Māoridom and for Māori Rugby. There are more than 500 living former Māori All Blacks, many of this number have also played for the All Blacks, some, too, like Tane Norton, Buck Shelford and Taine Randall have had the privilege of captaining both teams.

“Te Puni Kōkiri is about unleashing Māori potential. Professional sport and in this case professional rugby is one of the many opportunities open to Māori to earn a very good living in today’s world. Māori have contributed much since 1888 to rugby in this country and recognising and celebrating deeds of the past is a very good way of identifying opportunities for the future” said Mr Comer.

“Rugby is not the only sport that Te Puni Kōkiri recognises, but as this is the Centenary of Māori rugby we believe it is an occasion worth special recognition.

Te Puni Kōkiri’s investment will complement the considerable investment the NZRU is making and will be used, amongst other things, to assist the NZRU, in the following activities:

• Inter-regional tournaments;
• Youth and Coach development;
• Centennial events (around the three test matches);
• Centenary poster and publication;
• Design of the Centenary Jersey and logo;
• Commemorative pin and trophies

ENDS

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