Former All Black winger Jeff Wilson supports North Harbour's move. Photo: ODT filesNew Zealand Rugby has sent a strong message to its provincial unions and franchises, saying it sees little value in representative rugby at under-14 level and below. The letter to the country's rugby administrators, written by head of participation and development Steve Lancaster, made it clear that New Zealand Rugby feel rep rugby at a junior level was potentially counterproductive. North Harbour's decision to end its under-14 rep programme was a response to falling player numbers, particularly boys. "For us, this means cultivating a climate of development and fun around our junior rugby programmes and putting the kids at the centre of the experience."

Source: Otago Daily Times February 26, 2019 00:33 UTC