Rugby: Highlanders chairman resigns

The Highlanders Super rugby franchise is looking for a new chairman after Stuart McLauchlan announced today he was resigning from the position.

McLauchlan, Highlanders chairman since 2004, was recently appointed deputy chairman of Pharmac, the Crown entity that oversees the New Zealand pharmaceutical schedule, and has also been appointed crown monitor of the Southland District Health Board.

These appointments and other directorships meant he had less time for rugby, he said.

"I've enjoyed my time with the Highlanders, but it is a challenging position that requires more time than I'm able to give it.

"While the Highlanders' financial difficulties have been well publicised, all of the Super 14 franchises are suffering to a greater or lesser degree.

"We now have funding in place for 2010 and with the new governance structure, it is an appropriate time for me to step down. It goes without saying that I wish the board and my successor all the best."

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) announced recently the appointment of Mike Eagle to the Highlanders board.

A Highlanders board meeting next week will consider the chairmanship.

The Highlanders finished 11th in this year's Super 14 competition with four wins and nine losses.

- NZPA