New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has unveiled Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa trophy, which will be presented to the winner of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition.
The trophy, created by Otaki carver Bill Doyle, is carved out of Totara and represents the coming together of the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders in the wake of the disruption and turmoil caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa, translates to 'Stand As One New Zealand'.
"In the context of Super Rugby Aotearoa it's fitting that we say 'Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa' or 'Stand As One New Zealand', which is what the five clubs, the fans and the rugby community are doing in 2020," says NZR Kaihautu Luke Crawford.
"That thought spoke to Noho Tawhiti, which means to stay apart, but also Tū Kōtahi, which means do things together. As a country we needed to stay separated, but still be in this together to fight COVID-19.
"The bigger concept around it was the value rugby has had in providing a platform for the country to reunite post lockdown… so that was the korero, Noho Tawhiti Tū Kōtahi."
The trophy will be on display at Christchurch Stadium on Saturday when the Crusaders host the Hurricanes, before heading north for Blues v Chiefs at Eden Park on Sunday.
The Crusaders are favorites to win the trophy as they hold a five point lead at the top of the table on 18 points, ahead of the Blues (13), the Hurricanes (12), and the Highlanders (10). Only the Chiefs (4) are mathematically out of contention.
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