NZRU records huge profit

The successful Lions tour of New Zealand helped propel the New Zealand Rugby Union to a record profit of $23.7 million last year.

"2005 was an extraordinary year," chairman Jock Hobbs told the union's annual meeting in Wellington today.

He pointed to the achievements of the All Blacks winning 11 of their 12 tests, including the Lions series in a 3-0 white-wash.

On top of that was the announcement in November that New Zealand had been awarded the right to host Rugby World Cup 2011.

"New Zealand presented a strong bid based on proven event management success, an unmatched level of Government support and the passion of our stadium of four million people," said Mr Hobbs.

Mr Hobbs, said there were other achievements which were less obvious but would have a significant impact on New Zealand rugby.

These included:
* Work with coaches to create more player depth
* Better management and governance of many provincial unions
* Lessons in hospitality learned from the Lions series

But he warned of challenges ahead. Among them was trying to find new sources of money to grow the game.

Mr Hobbs paid tribute to all of those supporting Rugby in New Zealand and who should all share in the success of 2005 - "from the youngest children playing Rippa Rugby through to those playing at a senior level," and to the people who support the playing and enjoyment of rugby at every level.

These included club administrators, referees, team managers, teachers, parents, helpers and volunteers, who drive the buses and clean the jerseys, and the schools and clubs, which support them.

- HERALD ONLINE STAFF