Rugby 'browning' talked about but 'darkie' wrong word to use

Frank Bunce. Photo / Paul Estcourt

He's the man who speaks for his clients in times of trouble, but when contacted last night, only one member of Andy Haden's celebrity stable would discuss the rugby racism controversy.

The Herald on Sunday contacted a dozen of the sporting and TV personalities on Haden's client list. Some didn't return calls, one was abusive and only All Black great Frank Bunce would talk.

Bunce, who is of Niuean and Samoan descent, said he wasn't sure what to make of Haden's comments but didn't believe the Crusaders had a racial quota.

"Not for a minute do I believe it's policy down in Canterbury. I've got more faith in New Zealanders than that."

But Bunce said he was aware of concern that the "browning" of New Zealand rugby was widespread.

"[Haden's] not wrong in saying it's talked about. Whether that's from administrators, I'm not sure."

Bunce said he stood by Haden as his agent, but his use of the word "darkies" was unfortunate.

"He's certainly not racist himself and it's certainly not his opinion, but it was maybe a wrong choice of words."

Other rugby players weren't so forthcoming. Ian Jones wouldn't comment and Eric Rush said he didn't know about Haden's comments.

Among the celebrities represented by Haden, Aja Rock declined to comment, as did Police Ten 7 host Graham Bell.

TV3 news weathergirl Toni Marsh said she didn't know about the controversy and declined to comment.

Charlotte Dawson, also said she hadn't heard, was abusive and hung up.

Monty Betham, Shane Cameron, Mandy Barker and Maggie Barry didn't return messages.