New Zealand’s Rugby Culture

Why do we like rugby so much?

Early Colonisation

• Maori by nature were supposed to fight they were warriors for their Iwi.

• This fighting spirit has now been translated into sports, requiring more physical prowess such as rugby.

• Maori saw it as a way of gaining Mana in a more changing Pakeha world.

The Haka

Where did it originate from?

Why is it used before games?

Genetics

NZ is blessed with a GREAT genetic make up for rugby!!

We have Europeans, the speed and power of the Polynesian Islanders, combined with the Size and attitude of Maori

Children play rugby from an early age

Rippa rugby is in primary schools

Children pick up a rugby ball and play with it at interval and on the way home – which constantly develops their skills

Nz climate is conducive to children picking up a ball and playing with it. We have lots of available open space and parks and generally good weather to be outside.

Expectation

Through family and friends NZ children are linked to rugby very early on.

Kiwiana products like this.. Can sometimes promotea desire from family to playRugby.

Rugby Sevens culture

Party central! Alcohol and costumes!

Brings groups of people together, were a friendly laid back society.

Costume party… what about the rugby!?

Think about P-R-I-D-E

• Physical• Reserved• Ingenuity• Determined• Equality