Rugby: Hipkins leaving Auckland

Auckland Rugby Union chief executive Geoff Hipkins announced yesterday that he will leave the union at the end of his three-year contract in January.

Hipkins, who succeeded Peter Scutts, has decided not to take the option of renewing his contract.

"Geoff has made a huge contribution to Auckland rugby in the past three years ... he has our utmost respect," Auckland chairman Reuben O'Neill said.

O'Neill, who is to be succeeded by former Auckland player and coach Maurice Trapp, said the union would be seeking to recruit a replacement for Hipkins immediately.