The Latest Breaking News from New Zealand Rugby

Battle for use of Chiefs NRL team name headed for court

New Zealand Rugby has filed proceedings in the NZ High Court over the decision to name the NRL's Papua New Guinea expansion side the Chiefs.

AAP · Oct 8

Many elite athletes live with health impacts long after they retire. Should they carry all the costs?

When former All Black Sonny Bill Williams spoke from hospital before his recent neck surgery, his message was not simply about pain. It was a warning to young athletes and their parents about the physical price that can come with a professional sporting career.

The Conversation · Jul 8

Anzac Day Test confirmed, Bledisloe Cup to change

Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby have announced that a third Bledisloe Cup Test will be played on Anzac Day in Brisbane next year.

AAP · Jun 27

The Beta Blacks: Alpha days are gone for New Zealand and their aura with it

A lack of experience has lessened the impact of the All Blacks as many key players are ineligible for selection after moving to Japan

The Guardian - UK · Nov 14, 2025

Shane Christie sustained multiple head injuries playing rugby. In death, he is still fighting for change

The former All Blacks Sevens player suspected he had CTE, a disease associated with head impacts, and has donated his brain to science to help understand the condition

The Guardian - AU · Sep 30, 2025

Top sports teams are bought and sold for billions worldwide. The risky trend is coming to Australia

In recent years, private equity has changed the global sports landscape, with clubs from Major League Baseball (MLB) and the National Football League (NFL), rugby union in New Zealand and European soccer reaping massive financial benefits.

The Conversation · Sep 17, 2025

Shane Christie, rugby concussion campaigner who wanted to donate his brain, found dead at 39

Former Maori All Blacks player Shane Christie, who had wanted his brain to be studied after suffering from multiple concussions, has died aged 39

The Guardian - UK · Aug 27, 2025

Rugby player Shane Christie, who called for study of concussion, dies at age 39

Shane Christie suspected he was suffering from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

The Independent UK · Aug 27, 2025

New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson resigns

Robinson said he was leaving the role to join his wife and children who have relocated to Australia.

The Independent UK · Jun 9, 2025

The All Blacks and Sir Jim Ratcliffe finally settle sponsorship dispute

New Zealand Rugby accused Ineos of breaching its sponsorship contract by missing a payment instalment but the sides have come to an agreement

The Independent UK · Apr 1, 2025