Blues coach Tana Umaga after their win against the British & Irish Lions.

Owens described the loss to the Blues as "hugely disappointing".

Lions tours no place for split loyalties, most would make an exception for Bryn Gatland.

Great expectations for travelling fans - and the same for NZ supporters.

No one knows how they do it, but the camper vans always get there first.

The New Zealand Herald is counting down to the Lions series, looking back at past tours.

Ben Smith will not play for the Highlanders against the British and Irish Lions.

The Lions' win overnight was bad news for New Zealand's Super Rugby teams.

Three NZ Super Rugby franchises are set to make history during the Lions tour.

The more things change, the more they stay the same, writes Paul Lewis.

Lions have to be careful they don't focus too much on trying to smash the AB's up front.

It did not take long for the mind games to begin.

Gatland's squad would be unwise to think they'll soften AB's up front.

The British Lions may be staggered to face a first-five better than Daniel Carter.

First-five Bryn picked in Barbarians squad to play tourists coached by father Warren.

A five-try first half blitz has set the Lions on their way to a 42-19 win over the Kings.

Quade Cooper will miss three Super Rugby matches following a dangerous tackle.

The Queensland Reds could be without star playmaker Quade Cooper for several weeks.

Lions rugby coach Warren Gatland laid down the challenge this week, so we've picked it up.

All Black legend Wayne "Buck" Shelford is leading a campaign to find beds for thousands of British Lions fans.

Of all the challenges that lie ahead of Maro Itoje in what Eddie Jones predicts will be his toughest year yet, it appears that trying to find ambition is not one of them.

Rory Best has emerged as the front-runner for the captaincy of the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand.

Lions head coach Warren Gatland has expressed his concern for the well-being of Wales wing George North.

Is that a shiver of apprehension under Kiwi bedclothes, the first sign of anxiety at what is coming their way?

All Blacks fans still have a bit to learn at how to express their fandom in a witty way, says Paul Lewis.

The ultimate prize of 2017's British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand is making its way around the North. The taiaha Te Hiku

The British and Irish Lions team to tour NZ next year will potentially be the finest side representing the four Home Unions to travel to our shores.

Steve Hansen has already laid the marker. After the return test against Ireland in Dublin, the All Blacks coach made a bold prediction

Lions coach Warren Gatland has said he is desperate to beat his home nation of New Zealand when he takes the British and Irish players

English rugby writer Mick Cleary reveals the Irish-inspired formula needed for the Lions to succeed in New Zealand.