From humble beginnings in 1927, Waitematā Rugby Club is today one of the biggest rugby clubs in Auckland. Based in Henderson’s Waitematā Park, the club boasts top-class facilities and attracts enthusiastic players across the region.
Waitematā Rugby Club strongly emphasises developing the game’s junior side, which represents the club’s future. Over 20 junior teams compete in competitive and social leagues, and many girls and young women participate.
A four-times winner of the Gallaher Sheild, the club has a rich history of success in the senior division and has a current roster of six senior teams. Waitematā Rugby Club has been a launch pad for many greats of the game, including former All Blacks Adrian Clarke, Kenneth Carrington, Sione Lauak, and the legendary Sir Michael Jones. Another notable former player is DJ Forbes, who captained the NZ Sevens Team and secured gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
The club’s commitment to young people in The West, saw it apply to the 2023 Your West Support Fund. The $10,000 funding was instrumental in getting an exciting physical fitness and well-being project up and running. Open to local primary and intermediate schools, the active play programme aimed to improve participants’ fitness levels while having fun.
‘The initiative was open to anyone interested, not just those already playing rugby,’ says General Manager Greg Aldous. Tamariki developed their ball skills and got to try out Rippa rugby. ‘It was a great introduction to the fun game of Rippa for these youngsters,’ declares Greg.
The programme operated throughout term one and was hugely popular, with many eager youngsters participating.
The Your West Support Fund was also used to support Waitematā Rugby Club’s ever-popular school holiday programme. Furthermore, Greg says that the funding enabled the premier team coach to develop young players and upskill some junior team coaches, leaving a lasting legacy.
‘We’re very grateful for The Trusts’ help,’ says Greg. He adds that the programme helped Waitematā Rugby Club to extend its reach in the local community and get more tamariki involved in the nation’s favourite sport.
Waitematā Rugby Club is located at 96 Swanson Road, Henderson. Check out the club’s website for more information.
