North Shore Rugby Club is proud to announce it is now formally affiliated with the New Zealand Universities Rugby Football Council (NZU Rugby), following unanimous approval at the recent NZU Rugby AGM.

NZU Rugby Chairman John Sproat welcomed the decision, noting that the affiliation represents “a great opportunity to engage more tertiary students within the game,” while driving increased participation and strengthening the connection between university and community rugby.

The affiliation creates a clear and supported pathway for current tertiary students and alumni who play, or aspire to play, at North Shore Rugby Club. For those good enough, it also opens the door to wearing the coveted NZ Universities jersey and competing against international opposition.

NZU Rugby’s proud history is filled with remarkable achievements, including memorable victories against international rugby stalwarts such as the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions, underlining the unique representative opportunities available through the university rugby pathway.

As part of the affiliation, North Shore Rugby Club will actively engage with local tertiary institutions to encourage greater student involvement in rugby across playing, coaching, management, and support roles, helping to broaden participation both on and off the field.

This partnership complements North Shore’s existing relationship with the Royal New Zealand Navy, together offering players, coaches, and managers multiple development opportunities through aligned sporting, professional, and personal pathways.

North Shore Rugby Club looks forward to working closely with NZU Rugby, tertiary institutions, and partners to grow participation and strengthen the future of the game.

Article added: Thursday 18 December 2025