My husband made a post, saying one of his favourite things about rugby is the unity it creates -- almost everyone is connected as we root for a common goal.
A close friend of ours responded and said if what unites our country is a game which inspires violent behaviour, promotes self aggrandisement and is used by politicians to keep us distracted, that's pretty tragic.
I think they're both right.
On one hand, New Zealand sporting cultures comes with a definite toxicity and aggression. It starts with parents hassling the ref and brawling on the sidelines at the kids' Saturday games.
Fans' violent behaviour is undeniable, such as the assaults at the Viaduct on Sunday morning, and Dunedin students celebrating the win by torching couches.
Plus domestic violence cases spike dramatically whenever the All Blacks lose.
Personally, I dislike that we are so fixated by a male-dominated sport that our female athletes barely get a mention. The "heads must roll" attitude that accompanies every defeat. That rugby seems to overshadow all our other talents, to the point where our PM says we've got some good writers, but they'll never come close to the ABs.
But there is much about New Zealand rugby that's positive.
The All Blacks inspire youngsters to play sport, and to learn the values of team work and fair play. Many of our rugby greats have been excellent ambassadors and have supported many charities, such as the Hurricanes who help our own Kids Kai Time and make lunches for low-decile pupils.
Our foremost spokesperson for depression awareness is an ex-All Black.
And, like my husband said, there is something special about a country putting aside its differences, even for a night, and coming together for our team.
Rugby itself is neither good nor bad. Much like social media, our "beautiful game" can have an extremely positive influence in the right hands. And inspire violence and toxic masculinity in the wrong ones.
Rugby runs deep for Kiwis, and that's not likely to change.
But hopefully there will come a day where we can put our tempers aside, and support the boys without the drunken brawls, battered partners and charred furniture.
That would be worth celebrating.
