Applications Open for Women in Rugby Governance Programme 2026

New Zealand Rugby in partnership with the Institute of Directors New Zealand, is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Women in Rugby Governance Programme 2026.

The programme, running from February to June 2026, is designed to support women who are new to rugby governance or aspiring to step into leadership roles within Provincial Unions. It offers a blend of practical governance training, mentoring, professional and personal development opportunities, and networking across Provincial Unions.

New Zealand Rugby’s Head of Culture, Inclusion & Safeguarding Judy O’Brien said the programme had already shown positive results.  “This programme is about strengthening leadership pathways for women in rugby governance. New Zealand Rugby first ran this programme with the Institute of Directors in 2024. Since then we’ve seen 4 of the programme participants and mentors move into Board Chair roles in their Provincial Union”. 

Funded by NZR, the programme aims to build confidence, strengthen governance skills, and grow a connected network of wāhine leaders in rugby. Participants will take part in online and in-person workshops, and mentoring sessions with experienced directors.

The programme will be facilitated by Kiriwaitingi A Rei (LLB, B.SocSc, BA (Hons), MInstD), a highly experienced director and governance leader. Kiriwaitingi brings expertise from roles across the Māori economic sector, agribusiness, and rugby, including being the first woman appointed to the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

Who can apply?
The programme is open to women in New Zealand who are:

• planning to move into a Provincial Union rugby governance role within the next two years,
• in an emerging/aspiring director role in rugby, or
• currently in their first term as a director on a rugby board.

Key dates:

• Applications close: Sunday 19 October 2025
• Successful candidates confirmed: 3 November 2025
• Programme delivery: February – June 2026

How to apply:
Applications must be endorsed by your Provincial Union and submitted to your Provincial Union’s Chief Executive by 19 October 2025.

For full details and to apply, download the application form here. 

For Mentors
If you are a current or former Rugby Board Director interested in being a mentor for any of NZR’s Governance Development Programmes, please register your interest here.