Franchises to have more say in review

New Zealand Rugby says it will consult widely with its latest Super Rugby review, announced yesterday in the wake of the impact of coronavirus.

NZR was already conducting a review on Super Rugby, with the licences held by the five Kiwi franchises – the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders – due for renewal this year.

But the new review will a broader one and will involve the five franchises, whose chairs will be on the steering committee.

A private investor working group and independent parties will also be part of the review, which the NZR is calling Aratipu, saying it is about growing, regeneration and invigoration.

The review has been announced as players, clubs and fans wait for a decision on what form, if any, Super Rugby will take this year.

‘‘The work we are announcing today will look at a range of options for the future of Super Rugby in New Zealand with the goal of offering a competition that engages fans, is financially sustainable whilst continuing to develop outstanding players ready for national representative rugby,’’ said Blues chairman Don Mackinnon, who will chair Aratipu.

‘‘All of the Super Rugby licences were up for renewal in 2020 and a review was already under way as part of that, however the impact of Covid-19 creates another dimension and means we need to take a broader look at how we continue the 25 year legacy of Super Rugby for New Zealand.

‘‘The scope of Aratipu will include the New Zealand Super Rugby competition (local and overseas), clarify Super Rugby’s role in the domestic highperformance pathway, review the ownership and equity structure, and digital rights. We will consult widely and think broadly.’’

NZR chief executive Mark Robinson said his organisation was committed to Sanzaar and its broadcast arrangement with Sky TV for the next five years.

‘‘The review is about ensuring our Super Rugby remains relevant, sustainable and our fans are entertained and engaged,’’ he said. ‘‘The recent Review of Rugby highlighted areas of opportunity for Super Rugby in terms of both revenue and cost.

‘‘We are now also factoring in the impact of Covid-19 to look at a range of scenarios for the clubs and competition to keep the Super Rugby legacy strong and fit for purpose.

‘‘Aratipu is fitting as it symbolises development and growth in a new direction, and this review is about NZR and the NZ Super Rugby clubs coming together in the spirit of regeneration and reinvigoration for the competition.

‘‘This is an important piece of work for Super Rugby in New Zealand. I am encouraged by the discussions we have already had that demonstrate a real desire to drive positive change in the way Super Rugby is administered and played.

‘‘It is a hugely positive signal for the game that clubs, investors and NZR are coming together to do what is in the best interests for Super Rugby and rugby in New Zealand.’’

A preliminary report will be provided to the NZR board at the end of June, with the findings due to be provided later in the year, the statement said.

Joining Mackinnon on the the steering committee are Tonia Cawood (Chiefs), Iain Potter (Hurricanes), Grant Jarrold (Crusaders), Doug Harvie (Highlanders), Liz Dawson (private investor representative) NZR chairman Brent Impey and Robinson.