The NZ Rugby Policies & DSLVs page on the WRFU website provides access to the national policies and mandatory safety law variations set by NZ Rugby. These documents form the overarching regulatory and safety framework that provincial unions like WRFU must follow.

NZ Rugby Policies

Links to the official NZ Rugby policies that govern participation, safety, integrity, eligibility, and conduct across all levels of rugby in New Zealand. These national rules ensure every provincial union operates consistently and safely.
 

DSLVs (Domestic Safety Law Variations)

Provides access to the 2025 DSLVs, New Zealand’s nationally approved safety-focused variations to the World Rugby Laws.

These include:

• Safety modifications for community and age‑grade rugby
• Small Blacks laws (U6–U13)
• Rippa & Rip Rugby rules
• Game On provisions

The DSLVs are mandatory and must be applied across all competitions managed by WRFU.
 

2026 NZ Rugby Junior Rugby Guidelines

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.