Debate raged in the months leading up to the arrival of the 1981 Springboks in New Zealand for their divisive rugby tour which left a trail of destruction, broken friendships and families - and even broken bones. Over a 56-day period, riot police and pro-tour sports fans violently clashed with protesters. Arson attacks targeted grandstands at grassroots rugby fields and a controversial rugby administrator also had his house shot at by a shotgun. On the 40th anniversary of the tour, Neil Reid unravels the complex build-up to the tour, including the chilling prophecy that "New Zealanders' blood" would be spilt at rugby grounds - a claim which disturbingly came true.

Source: New Zealand Herald July 15, 2021 21:45 UTC