Touch New Zealand and New Zealand Rugby have announced a major partnership aimed at strengthening participation in both touch and traditional rugby by creating a year-round pathway from non-contact summer competitions into junior, school and club rugby.
The agreement formally recognises Touch Rugby as rugby’s official non-contact summer format and comes as NZ Rugby looks to address declining participation among young boys, despite overall rugby numbers rising in 2024 and female participation surging.
Officials say the partnership reflects changing attitudes toward sport, with many players seeking more flexible, social and lower-risk options.
NZ Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster said touch rugby provides an accessible alternative for those unwilling or unable to play full-contact rugby, while Touch NZ chief executive Joe Sprangers said aligning with rugby’s national brand would help grow the game and strengthen long-term player development pathways across both sports.
Image credit: Edgar Pimenta
