New Zealanders like winners and they like rugby. That's why no matter what players do off the field, it's having no effect on the popularity of the All Blacks.
Research company Colmar Brunton's latest poll has found the All Blacks are the most loved brand in New Zealand, equal with chocolate company Whittakers.
60 per cent of the Kiwis polled say they love the brand. That's up by 5 percent on last year.
They were asked why. Answers ranged from "I feel good when they win" to "they create a sense of pride and nation within me."
That's music to the ears of New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew. "That is a humbling result, particularly when you see the amazingly wonderful Kiwi brands in the top 20. We're really proud of the fact that the All Blacks and all our teams in black are well recognised here at home and overseas but it's something else to see how strongly positive people feel about us."
Possibly the most revealing comment from someone polled was "I grew up with them." The All Blacks are entrenched in New Zealand's sporting culture. That the acts of individuals don't effect the overall view of the side. Players come and go but all that matters is the All Blacks remain successful.
New Zealand Rugby's Respect and Responsibility Review is set to be made public this month. It will make headlines. No matter what is says, people will still love their national team.
Newshub.
