Rugby players raise $5k for children's ward

Otago hooker Liam Coltman gets his beard shaved for charity by hairdresser Jaimee Smith at Dunedin Hospital. Photos / Gerard O'Brien

The hairy faces of three Otago rugby players were shaved at Dunedin Hospital yesterday to raise about $5000 in funds for the children's ward.

Outside back Kieran Moffat said he enjoyed sporting a beard but his girlfriend was cold towards the face warmer.

"She was counting down the days until it was cut off. She said goodbye to it this morning and I gave her a bit of a nuzzle."

Prop Tama Tuirirangi said he rarely grew a beard but felt "a bit naked" after his six months' growth was shaved off in 15 minutes yesterday.

"I had a friend shave it off - she was a bit slow and worried."

Hooker Liam Coltman said he had grown his beard for two years. Many had found his beard alluring, he said.

"My girlfriend likes it and was disappointed to see it go."

A beard would be returning to his face soon, he said.

Children's ward charge nurse manager Shirley Bell said she helped shave Moffat's beard.

"The guys have been amazing raising the money. It's just awesome."