New Zealand Pasifika Rugby Council voted in as an Affiliated Body of New Zealand Rugby

New Zealand Rugby’s (NZR) voting members have approved the addition of the New Zealand Pasifika Rugby Council as an Affiliated Body of NZR.  

The 26 Provincial Unions and New Zealand Māori Rugby Board voted via a postal ballot that closed at 5.00pm 10 December, with the proposal receiving the necessary two-thirds support.  

The Pasifika Rugby Council will formally hold two votes under the NZR constitution and represent the interests of Pasifika rugby in New Zealand at all levels of the game.  

NZR Chair David Kirk said the decision recognises the immense contribution Pasifika players, coaches, administrators, volunteers, and communities make to rugby in New Zealand. 

“On behalf of the Board, I’d like to welcome the Pasifika Rugby Council as an Affiliated Body of NZR and look forward to continuing the work started with the Tausoa Fa'atasi two years ago to achieve positive outcomes across the game.” 

Kirk stated that the inclusion of the New Zealand Pasifika Rugby Council Inc. alongside the Provincial Unions and the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board ensures Pasifika voices are represented in NZR’s governance and decision making.

The Pasifika Rugby Council will have voting rights at General Meetings providing influence over matters ranging from approval of financial statements through to the ratification of Board Members and election of officers.

Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union CEO Corey Kennett said the motion reflects deep respect for Pasifika communities: 

“We are extremely honoured to support the New Zealand Pasifika Rugby Council motion as a reflection of deep respect for the vital contribution Pasifika communities make to rugby at all levels in New Zealand. The Pasifika Rugby Council’s inclusion aligns with a broader commitment to inclusivity, equity, and honouring the diverse voices that shape the future of rugby in New Zealand. I would also like to thank Brent Metson and the Auckland Rugby Union for seconding the motion, as well as all the Provincial Unions that supported it."

The Pasifika Rugby Council will replace Tausoa Fa'atasi (Pasifika Advisory Group) in NZR’s Board appointment process, including representation on the NZR Stakeholder Panel. 

In the same ballot, members voted on changes to NZR’s constitution with regards how membership applications are processed.  

Part of the challenge with the proposal to add Pasifika Rugby Council as a member has been that the Constitution does not include a process to consider voting membership for an entity that isn’t a Provincial Union. A second resolution providing for such a process has been passed by Members. 

The new process will now be formally incorporated in the NZR Constitution, and an updated copy will be made available externally.