NZRFU apology ends Mains row

The New Zealand Rugby Union and the Highlanders board have publicly apologised to Laurie Mains over comments made about him by former Highlanders chief executive John Hornbrook.

Mains, who retired from coaching after the turbulent Super 12 season with the Highlanders, went into mediation over the issue with the union this week after reports that he was considering legal action.

The Highlanders season was marred by a public falling out between Mains and several players, notably former All Blacks captain Anton Oliver.

It also led to Hornbrook quitting his post as chief executive.

The union said it had "successfully concluded" the mediation process with Mains yesterday, but would not say whether there was any monetary settlement.

"Former Highlanders chief executive John Hornbrook made some inflammatory comments that he subsequently withdrew, acknowledging that they were both inaccurate and inappropriate," an NZRFU statement said. "The NZRU and the Highlanders board also immediately dissociated themselves from those comments as they were made without the authority of either organisation.

"The NZRU and the Highlanders board today unreservedly apologised to Mr Mains for the distress those comments caused and publicly confirmed that those comments were without foundation."

Neither party would comment further.

- NZPA