Eric Rush appointed to Maori rugby board

Former New Zealand Sevens captain Eric Rush is one of two new members on the New Zealand Maori Rugby Board, the NZRU announced today. The other is Raymond Te Huki from Otago.

Mr Rush succeeds Peter Madden as an independent member. Mr Madden stepped down after serving on the New Zealand Maori Rugby Board for two years.

Mr Rush, who is affiliated to Ngati Kahu and Ngapuhi iwi, said it was an honour for him to serve on the Board.

"I am excited to be on the Board and I think that I can make a meaningful contribution to Maori rugby. Maori rugby is in a healthy state and I'm delighted to play a role in its future direction," Mr Rush said.

New Zealand Maori Rugby Board Chairman Paul Quinn said Mr Rush would bring extensive rugby and business experience to the Board.

"He has played the game at all levels and his credentials are impeccable. At the same time he is a professional man in his own right being a qualified lawyer and we are proud to have him," Mr Quinn said.

Mr Quinn added that Rush is a high profile player, particularly in the Auckland region, and his presence on the Board can help boost Maori rugby across all levels in the area.

The other new member, Mr Te Huki, is replacing long-serving Board member Pat Harding as one of the two South Island representatives.

Mr Te Huki is Nga Kahungunu and Rangitane. He has been involved in the development of young Maori talent in Dunedin and is Team Manager of the Maori representative teams in the province.

Mr Quinn thanked Mr Harding for his outstanding contribution to Maori rugby and said he was a valued member of the Board.