Rugby 1870's Style

Today in Nelson as part of the Rugby World Cup celebrations there was a re-enactment of the first game of rugby played in NZ (the first recognised game of rugby played in New Zealand took place on Saturday, May 14, 1870 between a Nelson College side and the Nelson Football Club) at the same location (The Botanics).

The re-enactment started with a gathering of both teams at the Cathedral Steps at the top of Trafalgar Street and a haka from 1200 boys from Nelson Boys School.

A short walk to The Botanics and the game was on.

Nelson Boys and Nelson Rugby Club were both decked out in traditional uniforms. A traditional shaped ball was used for the most part the original rules played. Even the posts were manuka sticks.

A scum/maul consisting of the majority of the 18 members of each team happened quite often.

One handed throw into the lineouts (and uncontested as we know them).

There was even a streaker (in his onesy) that got arrested and put in the gallows.

It was a top entertaining event. Below is from the programme that details some of the original rules that would have been played in 1870.

Tonight we are off to some modern rugby with Italy vs Russia.