21/04/2026
Over the Easter break we were lucky enough to take 30 of our players to New Zealand for a rugby tour, playing three games while exploring the country.
Day 1 started with some bad luck as our flight was cancelled just before takeoff. After an unexpected night in Sydney, the boys were well rested and ready to travel the next day.
Day 2 began with an early 5am start. After flying into Auckland and then Christchurch, the team headed straight to the University of Canterbury for their first match, going down 25–19 in a competitive game.
Day 3 started with a talk from Aaron Mauger and Kyle Preston, who shared insights from their rugby careers. The boys then enjoyed a Christchurch city tour, learning about the 2011 earthquakes, before some competitive go-karting where club great Ollie Anderson recorded the fastest time. The day finished with a tour of Rugby Park, home of the Crusaders.
Day 4 began with a cultural experience paddling waka down the Avon River while learning about Māori traditions. The boys then had time to explore the city before a paintball battle at Ferrymead, where the forwards came out on top.
Day 5 featured the second match of the tour against Glenmark Cheviot RFC at the scenic Omihi Domain. In a close contest Glenmark won 19–17, followed by both teams spending time together sharing stories and making new friendships.
Day 6 saw the group travel north through the Waipara wine region to Hanmer Springs for jet boating, bungee jumping and relaxing in the famous thermal pools which was a trip highlight for Angus Quigley before continuing on to Kaikoura for dinner by the water.
Day 7 included a farm tour from the Chaffey family before travelling to Picton and taking the ferry to Wellington.
Day 8 began with time exploring Wellington and visiting Te Papa museum. The final match was played against Wellington Football Club (Axemen). After trailing at halftime, the boys fought back to win 14–12.
Day 9 saw the team return home after an unforgettable tour. A huge thank you to all the NZ tour sponsors who made the trip possible.