• Sir Michael Jones elected to NZR Board
• Replaced former Auckland Rugby Union Chairman Glenn Wahlstrom

Waitemata, Auckland and All Blacks legend Sir Michael Jones has been elected to the New Zealand Rugby Board at its Annual General Meeting in Wellington today.

Jones (Cap No. 1131), who represented Auckland on no fewer than 98 occasions, replaced outgoing member and former ARU Chairman Glenn Wahlstrom.

The 55-Test cap former All Black managed to attain his position by holding off Dame Annette King.

NZR Chair Brent Impey said Jones would add considerable mana, knowledge and expertise to the table.

“Sir Michael has already made an immense contribution to New Zealand rugby both as a player at every level, and as a leader in the community.

“His ability to bring people together, to understand different perspectives and different cultures, and to lead through his own actions will be a valuable addition.”

Jones received a New Zealand Medal for service to the Pacific Island community in 1997 and was knighted last year for his work in driving economic and social development for Pasifika people in New Zealand, and in the Pacific region.

He is the Chair of the Village Community and Youth Trust, which opened in 2003 to keep young Pacific and Maori people out of gang activity. And in 2010, set up the Village Sports Academy to mentor Pacific students to stay in school.

Jones, who holds the Samoan matai chief titles of Savae and Laauli, and played 74 matches for the All Blacks between 1987 and 1998, including 55 Test matches, said he was humbled by the new role.

“I have been fortunate throughout my life to be involved in rugby which has given me a lot. I am very humbled and privileged to have been elected on to the NZR Board, and I am looking forward to giving back to the game in this capacity,” he said.