New Zealand Rugby Statement regarding COVID-19: Club and school rugby participation in New Zealand
Statement from Steve Lancaster, New Zealand Rugby Head of Participation and Development regarding COVID-19 and club and school rugby participation in New Zealand:
New Zealand Rugby continues to follow the COVID-19 advice provided by the Ministry of Health regarding public events and mass gatherings.
At present there are no restrictions on mass gatherings or community activities under 500 people.
Rugby events, matches and any activities which may attract more than 500 people are asked to inform their attendees of cancellations.
Given the fast-changing situation, these guidelines and advice are subject to change.
We are expecting more guidance and direction this week from the government regarding mass gatherings and community activities.
We are continuing to monitor the situation with a view that health and safety is the number one priority for both rugby and the wider community.
New Zealand Rugby advises our Provincial Unions, clubs and schools to make decisions which are best for their participants, whanau and communities.
We also ask that everyone involved in the game maintain good hygiene practices, including regularly washing hands, rugby equipment and not sharing water bottles.
Players, coaches, referees, parents and administrators are asked to stay away from rugby trainings, activities and meetings if they are feeling unwell.
New Zealand Rugby and Provincial Unions are monitoring the situation constantly and will provide regular updates as and when they become available.
We continue to ask everyone involved in rugby to support one another and follow the official government guidelines.
For COVID-19 advise and guidelines please visit www.health.govt.nz
Advice to Rugby Participants:
• Follow the Ministry of Health Guidelines: www.health.govt.nz
• Regularly wash hands
• Stay at home if you are feeling unwell
• Use personal water bottles – don’t share with others
• Ensure rugby equipment is regularly cleaned
• Do what is best for you and your communities to keep them safe and healthy