Safe, fun and well‑run junior rugby for tamariki, whānau and community volunteers.

The Junior Rugby section brings together the key information, policies and resources needed to run junior grades across Wellington. This includes grade rules, policies, operational forms, safety and injury‑reporting processes and guidance for convenors, coaches and team managers. Everything is grouped in one place to help clubs deliver safe, positive and consistent junior rugby experiences.

NZ Rugby Resources

• NZ Rugby Junior Rugby page
• Junior Rugby Guidelines
• Junior Rugby Explainer​​​​​

  • A video that encapsulates all the current game design modifications and principles that underpin the future Junior Rugby

NZ Rugby’s new Junior Rugby Guidelines reshape the game around what tamariki need to grow, learn and thrive. Moving beyond the old “Small Blacks” model, the updated framework introduces a player‑focused approach that prioritises safety, fun and development at the right pace.

Built on four core principles - Start Wide to Grow Strong, Let the Game Teach, Match the Challenge to the Child and Progress with Purpose. The guidelines ensure kids experience rugby that fits their stage of growth, not the other way around.

With right‑sized fields, simplified game formats and a staged introduction of contact and set piece, Junior Rugby supports confidence, skill development and lifelong enjoyment of the game. This is a pathway designed to keep young people active, included and excited to play.

If you have any questions, these can be directed to Lucy Barry, WRFU Community Activator - Junior: [email protected].

Injury & Safety Resources

Information to support safe participation and wellbeing in junior grades, covering:

• Concussion guidelines and return‑to‑play processes
• Blue Card information
• Serious injury reporting requirements

Junior Rugby Framework

The Junior Framework outlines how junior rugby is delivered from Year 1-8, setting age‑appropriate rules that support player safety, skill development, and fair participation. It provides consistency across grades while introducing the game progressively as players grow.

Key Points

• Covers Rip Rugby and Tackle rugby with clear progression by age group
• Defines team sizes, field and ball sizes and game length
• Gradually introduces contact, scrums, lineouts and kicking
• Ensures all players receive meaningful game time
• Emphasises safety, coaching education and player wellbeing

Referee Abuse

Referee Abuse: Zero tolerance for any verbal, physical or threatening behaviour toward match officials - act immediately and report without delay.

• Report Referee Abuse (Online)
• Guide: Include who/what/when/where; exact words/actions; witnesses; attachments
• Who completes: Referee or Team Manager
• Timeframe: Same day if possible, within 24 hours

Rules, Safety & Development Guidelines

Clear guidance on how Junior Rugby operates across grades, including:

• Season structures
• Grade rules and modified rugby formats
• Charter for players, parents, coaches and supporters

Safeguarding

How Wellington Rugby protects children and young people, including our safeguarding policy, harm‑reporting process and links to NZR’s Safe Clubs Safe Kids resources.