Otago Rugby Union eNewsletter

Editorial

It's go time people club rugby is back!!! Prepare those vocal chords to get out and about to cheer on your team paddock side this weekend. Metro kicks off first with Central and Southern kicking off round 1 on Thursday evening to allow a nice break over Easter weekend. You can check out the full draw by clicking HERE, be sure to get out there and show your support!

The 2026 NPC draw is here and it’s shaping up to be a big one! We celebrate 50 years of National Provincial Competition rugby in 2026 and the generations of players, supporters and moments that have shaped who we are. There is more epic moments to look forward to... Our 250th clash with Southland Stags, a rivalry that’s stood the test of time and Canterbury at home under the roof, with the Ranfurly Shield on the line! A rematch of last year’s final, in front of OUR crowd. And that is just the first two rounds!

Otago NPC Season Memberships for 2026 are on sale now. A season membership gives you more than just entry to the game — it secures your spot at every home match and every big moment across the season, including complimentary entry to our two preseason fixtures! This year, you’ll also have the option to purchase an exclusive members only jersey when you sign up. The perfect way to show your colours all season long! CLICK HERE to secure your membership today!

These school holidays, Otago Community Rugby is running its first ever Holiday Skills Programme . This one-day session is for kids who want to learn new skills, have fun, and build confidence or just sharpen to up before the season starts. If you have a kid you think would be keen, check out the full details below!

Some of our rugby clubs are still on the hunt for coaches especially in the Women’s, Colts and Div 2 Men competitions and could really use your help. Step up, support your club, and help shape the next generation of players. New to coaching? no problem! We have Level 1 World Rugby Coaching Courses available to help you build the skills and confidence you need! Reach out to Moxy Smith for more info on 027 405 9208 or email michael.smith@orfu.co.nz

Scroll down for more rugby news and announcements like development opportunities, weekly happenings, rugby courses and more…

Looking for a rugby club for the kids this year? This is your sign

With junior rugby kicking off next month, clubs across Dunedin are opening their doors this Sunday!

Come check it out and find the club that’s right for you!

You can register to play and have fun with the activities and skill sessions on offer!

All times and venues are on the poster!

See you there!

If you are not from the Metro region - check out all the Club Contacts included for the Central and Southern regions and find a Junior Club near you!

The 2026 NPC draw is here and it’s shaping up to be a big one!

We celebrate 50 years of National Provincial Competition rugby in 2026 and the generations of players, supporters and moments that have shaped who we are.

There is more epic moments to look forward to...

Our 250th clash with Southland Stags, a rivalry that’s stood the test of time and Canterbury at home under the roof, with the Ranfurly Shield on the line! A rematch of last year’s final, in front of OUR crowd.

And that is just the first two rounds!

Last year proved that Otago supporters know how to show up! Lock in the dates and get ready to do it all again in 2026 - we have a Shield to defend!

After an unforgettable 2025 season, one thing was clear, Otago fans know how to show up!

The energy in the stands was undeniable, and your support made a real impact. Now it’s time to lock in your place for the 2026 Otago NPC season.

A season membership gives you more than just entry to the game — it secures your spot at every home match and every big moment across the season, including complimentary entry to our two preseason fixtures!

And this year, you’ll also have the option to purchase an exclusive members only jersey when you sign up. The perfect way to show your colours all season long!

There are options for young and old, starting from just $32.50. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it again in 2026.

Secure your membership today and we will see you there!

https://www.orfu.co.nz/high-performance/tickets-memberships

On Wednesday we had a Spirit Sisters Rippa Rugby Carnival which is an event for girls years 3-8. This year we had 17 schools enter over 40 teams into the event with around 400 girls getting to experience a girls only non contact version of rugby in a fun and safe environment.

To add to an awesome day out we also had an all female referee group including Otago Spirits captain Greer Muir, and Spirit Academy players Emily Dale and Pip Eason. Thank you to everyone else who helped make the day a possible, it was a beaut!

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Otago Rugby Football Union’s 145th Annual General Meeting, held last night at Pirates Rugby Club. We appreciate your time and input to the Union.

A special thank you goes to Bob Perriam, who has served as ORFU President over the past two years. We wish him all the best for the future and look forward to seeing him cheering from the sidelines at this year’s NPC and FPC games.

We are also pleased to welcome Gary Wheeler, from Alhambra-Union, who was elected as the new ORFU President for the next two years. We are excited to have Gary join the Board and look forward to the leadership and vision he will bring to Otago rugby.

Here’s to a strong year ahead for rugby in our region!

Kids keen to give rugby a go?

Rippa Grade (Y1 and Y2) – FREE 9:00am – 10:30am

Tackle Grade (Y3 - Y8) – $30 10:30am – 3:00pm

Locations & Dates:

• Central Otago – Frankton Event Centre (10 April)

• Balclutha – Clutha Rugby Club (15 April)

• Dunedin – Zingari-Richmond Rugby Club (17 April)

Bring your lunch, drink bottle, and plenty of energy! Spaces are limited, so make sure you register early using the QR code on the poster or via this link https://www.sporty.co.nz/viewform/497782

Across two different days we had over 1200 tamariki participate in a have a go styled session where every participant got to try out tackle rugby, cricket, hockey, and football.

The girls were lucky enough to also experience a bit of international test cricket as part of their event day as the White Ferns took on Zimbabwe over at Uni Oval.

Two dunner stunners meant energy, vibes and spirits were high with lots of laughter. From the feedback received it was a great day out for those involved - a great initiative where many sports codes work together to give children the opportunity to give something new a go in hope to drive participation numbers in Otago.