Kia ora from Community
I’m Claudia Bethell, the Participation Lead here at Canterbury Rugby Football Union.
I’ve always been passionate about staying active, and having the opportunity to grow our game here in Canterbury, whilst developing our tamariki’s confidence and skills, is something I really value.
It’s my role to lead and deliver alternate formats of rugby, creating spaces where everyone can get involved and foster a love of being active. This includes exciting new modified versions of the game like T1 and hosting Rippa Hubs. We’re always on the lookout for new clubs and schools to jump on board.
We’ve already kicked off 2025 with Crusaders in Clubs, collaborating with 10 clubs so far across Metro, North Canterbury, and Ellesmere to bring Crusaders players out into the community.
We’re pumped to be heading to a further five, Christchurch Football Club, West Melton Rugby Club, Parklands, Prebbleton and Sydenham on Monday, 17th of March, from 4:30pm to 5:30pm.
Come and meet some of your heroes, don’t forget to register with your local club for the season too!
Ngā mihi,
Claudia Bethell
Participation Lead
Around the Grounds in Red and Black
Over the last couple of weeks we’ve been out and about connecting with clubs and promoting registrations for the upcoming season, in conjunction with the Crusaders. Tamariki from across the region have enjoyed skills sessions, games and drills whilst running alongside some of their favourite players in red and black.
Led by Canterbury Rugby, Crusaders in clubs hero’s players promoting both the game and participation.
“It’s about strengthening the connections between our grassroots community and high performance, ultimately promoting greater participation in rugby across Canterbury” said Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail.
Further to our club connections, it was fantastic to engage with so many of our community at the “rego round” double header at Apollo Projects Stadium. Marist Albion, Hurunui, Southbridge, Saracens, Christchurch Football Club and Rolleston all had their turn on the field, filling the stadium with club jerseys and wicked energy! Retro jerseys aplenty, it was awesome to see so many Red and Black supporters and connect with some of you over corn hole and jellybeans on the west pad.
We’ll be back onsite again Saturday 15 March for “Kids Round” as the Crusaders take on the Western Force, come and say hello, play some games, and get registered on the spot!
Fresh brew: We welcome Moa Brewing Company onboard!
We are excited to announce a new partnership with Moa Brewing Company as our official beer and ready-to-drink (RTD).
This new collaboration will bring together two iconic New Zealand brands and be centred around Moa’s newly launched Southern Alps Ultra Low Carb Lager, a brew that is made from the most southern hops and malt in the world and pays homage to the rugged beauty of the South Island.
“We are thrilled to welcome Moa Brewing Company on board as our official beverage partner,” said Canterbury Rugby CEO, Tony Smail. “We are excited to partner with a company that shares our commitment to excellence, and the Southern Alps beer will undoubtedly be a hit with our players and supporters alike."
Stephen Smith, Managing Director of Moa Brewing Company expressed similar enthusiasm, saying, “Partnering with Canterbury Rugby is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with passionate rugby players and fans across the region. Our team at Moa Brewing Company is passionate about producing quality brews, and to see it enjoyed at the heart of the rugby action is something special.’’
The partnership also includes Moa Brewing Company taking on the naming rights for the newly established Under 85kg Club Competition which will now be known as The Southern Alps Ultra U85kg – a unique initiative that celebrates the passion and skill of rugby players under a certain weight class and the Canterbury Rugby belief that there’s a position on the team for everyone. The competition is set to bring further attention rugby’s diverse range of athletes and will be an exciting competition again in 2025 as it continues to grow in popularity. The winning team will not only secure bragging rights this season as Moa Brewing Company is also putting up a prize worth over $15,000 for their club, so there is plenty on the line to play for.
“This is more than just a sponsorship,” said Smail, “It’s about building lasting relationships with our fans and partners. Moa’s commitment to sustainability, community, their passion for sport, and dedication to quality craftsmanship makes this a perfect fit as we continue to grow rugby in Canterbury. Our shared values will resonate with rugby fans and craft beer enthusiasts throughout Canterbury and beyond.”
The partnership kicks off with the 2025 rugby season, where fans can expect Moa Brewing’s products to be available at key rugby events, along with exclusive promotions, events, and merchandise throughout the year.
If your club is wanting to get a team together to play in The Southern Alps Ultra U85kg competition please get in touch today with our Community Operations Manager here. If you are wanting to sign up as a player click the button below!
Partners workshop
On Wednesday 12th March we were privileged to host our amazing family of partners for a workshop at the Town Hall.
It was a fantastic opportunity to come together, share valuable knowledge, and strengthen the connections that make our collaboration so special. We're really looking forward to achieving great things together, and creating unforgettable experiences on and off the field.
If you’re interested in joining our Canterbury Rugby family please get in touch here!
The Black Ferns are back in town
Saturday 17 May brings an afternoon of footy and family entertainment like no other, as the Black Ferns take on Canada right here in Christchurch!
Kids from just $5, Adults from $15, jump on early bird now!
Upcoming Events
Check out what’s on around the grounds…
Crusaders in Clubs
17 March 4:30pm | Christchurch, West Melton, Parklands, Prebbleton, Sydenham
Rugby Smart Master Class with Aaron Webb
17 March 6:00pm at Rugby Park | Culture and Belonging
Rugby Smart Master Class with Alex Robertson
24 March 6:00pm at Rugby Park | Attack
Rugby Smart Master Class with Matt Todd
7 April 6:00pm at Rugby Park | Defence
Rugby Smart Master Class with Brad Mooar
14 April 6:00pm at Rugby Park | Game innovation
Rugby Smart Master Class with Craig Mullan
28 April 6:00pm at Rugby Park | Set piece
A huge thank you to our 2025 Pathways Partners.
