Historic rugby jersey stolen

Steve Tew at the events centre in Rotorua. Photo / Christine Cornege

The Rugby Union is appealing for the return of a rare 100-year-old New Zealand Maori rugby jersey stolen from Rotorua during Maori Rugby's centenary celebrations in June.

A police investigation is under way following unsuccessful attempts by the rugby union to get the jersey back.

It had belonged to New Zealand Maori hooker David Small - a member of the first New Zealand Maori team - who wore it on tour in Australia in 1910.

His family lent the jersey to the New Zealand Maori team for their three-match centenary tour this year and it was stolen from a function at the Energy Events Centre in Rotorua.

Rugby Union chief executive Steve Tew said the Small family was very upset and although the theft was an embarrassment to both Rotorua and the rugby union, getting the jersey back was the main focus.

Bay of Plenty Police acting district commander John Tims said a CIB team was investigating.

"We are treating this complaint seriously.

"This is an incredibly precious piece of New Zealand rugby history.

"It is simply unacceptable that it has been stolen and we will be doing everything we can to get it back.

"The key to solving this case and recovering the jersey will be information from members of the public.

"Someone knows something about this, and we ask that they come forward," he said.

If you have information that could lead to the recovery of the jersey, please phone the police, either officially or anonymously via the independently-run Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 11.