Super Rugby Pacific and the inaugural women's competition have launched a 'Tries for Tonga' campaign to assist the island nation's recovery from a volcanic eruption and tsunami in January.
Tonga is still reeling from the eruption of Hunga Tonga, which saw coastal towns inundated by massive waves that killed three, injured 14 and caused considerable damage.
Over the opening 10 rounds of Super Rugby Pacific, NZ Rugby, Rugby Australia and their respective broadcast partners will donate $500 for every try scored to help cover the fundraising effort. New naming-rights sponsors DHL has kickstarted the drive with a $20,000 donation.
"The Tongan people have contributed and continue to contribute so much to our game, so it is only right that rugby is there to support one of our closest Pacific neighbours in their time of need," says NZ Rugy chief executive Mark Robinson.
"We hope 'Tries for Tonga' can provide a meaningful a boost to the Red Cross’ ongoing relief efforts.
"Our joint-venture partner, Rugby Australia, our players on both sides of the Tasman and our broadcast partner Sky didn't hesitate to jump on board, and DHL's generous up-front donation has reinforced the values we are lucky to share with our new naming rights partner."
The formula will be duplicated across the NZ-based Super Rugby Aupiki women's competition.
Last Friday, Moana Pasifika dedicated their pre-season debut against the Chiefs to the Tonga relief effort, promoting an online fundraising drive, with spectators unable to attend the game under COVID-19 'red light' protocols.
"New Zealand Red Cross is overwhelmed with the way so many organisations within Aotearoa New Zealand and people internationally have rolled up their sleeves to raise funds to help us support the people of Tonga and those affected by the volcanic eruption and tsunami," says Red Cross secretary general Sarah Stuart-Black.
"This very generous initiative from NZ Rugby, Rugby Australia and their partners shows the true community spirit, and sense of family/whanau and connectedness across the Pacific, linking support for those most in need through our shared love of rugby."
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