US rugby team has change of heart about waka trip

The United States rugby team will be take a waka trip across the Whanganui River after earlier pulling out due to safety concerns. File photo / Janna Dixon

The United States rugby team have had a change of heart and will be taking a waka trip across the Whanganui River after earlier pulling out of the Rugby World Cup welcome due to safety concerns.

Wanganui Mayor Annette Main welcomed the USA Eagles' change of heart, saying it meant a lot to the community.

"It is clear that, when they initially decided not to take part, the Eagles had not realised that the waka trip is an integral part of the welcome ceremony at Putiki Marae on September 4.

"Now that they have a better understanding of the cultural nature of the ceremony and the importance of the Whanganui River to our community, they have confirmed that they will be honoured to join the waka trip," Ms Main said.

The USA Eagles earlier pulled out of the waka trip citing "safety and security reasons".

The team will take part in an invitation-only powhiri at Putiki which will include the presentation of the team's official RWC caps.

Following the ceremony they will travel on the waka from Putiki to the Waimarie berth.

Ms Main hoped as many people as possible would be on the riverbank to welcome the team to Wanganui.

- NZPA