Navigating Two Worlds is an AUT action research project, in partnership with New Zealand Rugby and Auckland Rugby. The aim of the project is to gather a stronger cultural understanding and to develop leadership and participation in non-playing roles in the New Zealand Rugby community, including administration, governance, refereeing and coaching roles.

Four focus groups were conducted in the Auckland region to determine the different barriers and enablers for Pacific Island participation, leadership and administration roles in rugby. Three actions have been put in place for the project, a pacific advisory group, a club leadership and mentor group, and third, a pacific leadership and mentoring unit for pacific people in our rugby community aspiring to become more involved in New Zealand rugby.

NZ Rugby have recently created a Pasifika Engagement Manager position to lead this project alongside help from the pacific advisory group to establish support and advise New Zealand Rugby on this initiative.

The Navigating Two Worlds project will facilitate a smoother pathway for Pacific Island members of the New Zealand rugby community, therefore allowing greater access and leadership contribution throughout rugby in New Zealand.

Article added: Monday 10 February 2020