Pinetree Awards 2005

Just when you thought there were no obvious men of the people in New Zealand rugby, Otago goes and provides 15 with another giant-killing victory over Canterbury.

In last year's inaugural Herald on Sunday Pinetree Awards, Bay of Plenty captain Wayne Ormond was a runaway winner in the People's Pinetree category.

Once again the public can vote on pinetree@heraldonsunday.co.nz (see link below) for the player who has captured their imagination or sympathy.

Twelve months after his win, Ormond is leaving for Japan after a quiet season and there is no stand-out choice for the award, although North Harbour centre Anthony Tuitavake has been so dynamic in the NPC, he is hard to ignore.

What of the other contenders?

Has Anton Oliver's book endeared himself to fans or will he alienate the public who felt for him as he grappled with his renaissance man growing pains?

Daniel Carter's 11 out of 10 performance in the second test against the Lions made him flavour of the week but this award isn't just about the superstars.

Perhaps there's more appeal in the endeavours of Otago first-five Nick Evans, who has been outstanding yet ignored (by the All Black selectors) this season.

Evans' team-mate Josh Blackie - who shone in the Super 12, Hong Kong Sevens and NPC - is another candidate given he is unlucky to be playing in the Richie McCaw era.

The heroic deeds of captain Jono Gibbes for the NZ Maori against the Lions seem a distant memory. Then again, so does the barnstorming form of Wellington No 8 Thomas Waldrom in the NPC. Both are showing out in early voting.

Given North Harbour's underdog status, the People's Pinetree winner might come from their ranks.

Alongside Tuitavake, Rua Tipoki has delighted fans with his sidestep and deft passing. There's even a chance of the first South African recipient of a Pinetree Award - North Harbour lock Greg Rawlinson.

There are 15 award categories, including the Golden Pinetree (won by Andrew Mehrtens last year), best sidestep, best pass, best tackler and the clear-felling award for the most devastating runner. The winners will be announced after the All Black tour.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY