This weekend sees an appreciation focus for referees across New Zealand’s provincial rugby competitions. It’s round three of the Bunnings NPC, round two the Farah Palmer Cup and the Bunnings Heartland Championship kicks off its opening round, and the community spirit will focus on, and recognise, one of the game’s most important groups, referees.
As NZ Rugby says, “Without referees, there’s no rugby. Every weekend, thousands of match officials give up their time to ensure games can be played safely and fairly, from grassroots right through to provincial competitions.”
This week, NZ’s Unions will be hosting a range of referee appreciation activities. They include complimentary match tickets for referees in some regions; special watch parties to bring referees together off the field; and the wearing of pink socks and vests as a visible reminder about respectful sideline behaviour.
Team captains will be visible in thanking referees pre-match and joining them for a photo on the field, with images shared on the broadcast and through in-stadia announcements.
While not all unions are running identical activities, the message is consistent nationwide: referees are a critical part of the game, and they deserve our thanks and respect.
New Zealand Rugby Domestic Competitions Manager Clint Austin said the round is a chance for players, coaches, and supporters to show gratitude and to reflect on the example they set.
“Referees help make our game possible, and they deserve respect at every level. How we behave on the sideline matters, young people are watching and learning from us. That means role-modelling good behaviour, calling out abuse when we see it, and remembering that without referees, there is no game.”
The Referee Appreciation Round follows ongoing efforts by New Zealand’s provincial Unions and NZ Rugby to support, retain, and grow the refereeing community, a vital part of keeping rugby thriving across Aotearoa and across the rest of the rugbying world.
