ANNUAL REPORT Supporting seriously injured players, for life 2024 NZ RUGBY FOUNDATION VIPS 1 1 1 1 WAIKATO RU COUNTIES MANUKAU RFU NORTH HARBOUR RU 1 21 1 1 2 1 1 1 7 1 1 2 TARANAKI RFU KING COUNTRY RFU BAY OF PLENTY RU 1 4 1 1 1 5 1 3 HOROWHENUA KAPITI RFU TASMAN RU WANGANUI RFU 1 3 1 6 2 1 1 1 1 MANAWATU RU WAIRARAPA BUSH RFU WELLINGTON RFU 1 1 2 1 EAST COAST RFU 1 POVERTY BAY RFU HAWKE’S BAY RFU 3 1 2 2 1 UNION NORTHLAND RU AUCKLAND RU THAMES VALLEY RFU WEST COAST RFU BULLER RU 1 1 10 1 1 1 1 CANTERBURY RFU MID CANTERBURY RU SOUTH CANTERBURY RFU 2 NORTH OTAGO RFU RUGBY SOUTHLAND 1 1 4 OTAGO RFU 1 We stand in service to all registered rugby players in New Zealand. In 2024, there were 155,568 registered players. This covers 26 Provincial Unions, which include 480 Clubs and 296 Secondary Schools across the motu. Since records began in 1966, we have 118 VIPs in our NZ Rugby Foundation family.
We dedicate this annual report to the following VIPs who have passed away in 2024 Jim, Evelyn and grandsons Patrick and Ryan. Michael Girling-Butcher. JIM CAMPBELL 25/06/1951 – 5/12/24 (Injured in 1975) Jim loved the coast and the Tararua Ranges; he travelled the country, connecting with locals, discovering new places and sharing his art. Being a wheelchair user after his rugby injury at 24 years young did not limit Jim’s love of painting. His art gallery and exhibitions were marvellous. You may see one of his pieces and remember our friend. Our love goes out to his wife, Evelyn; his daughter, Jodie; his son-in-law, Justin; and his grandchildren, Patrick and Ryan. MICHAEL GIRLINGBUTCHER 15/10/1958 – 16/11/2024 (Injured in 1988) A cherished brother to Susan, Nicholas, Joanna and Rosemary and a beloved father to Rachel and Martin. We are thankful to have known Mike, his greatest support Robyn, friends and support workers. Injured only weeks after the birth of his first child, life dealt Mike many curves. Thirty years on, his daughter followed in his teaching footsteps, and Mike became a voice for the disability community of Palmerston North. His work is not forgotten: “We need to be viewed for our skills, not the disability we live with.” MGB. Alan Boyd with his niece and grandnephew. ALAN BOYD 18/06/1955 – 23/06/2024 (Injured in 1986) Alan loved his family and rugby. After his accident, he was still a part of Wellington Rugby. He loved the rugby season and watching the Hurricanes at the Cake Tin. He was a much-loved uncle to all his nieces and nephews. Patricia, Erin Walecki, Margaret & Chris Crawford, Chris & Cathy, and Stephen were extraordinary supporters of Alan through the years, and his band of “team Alan” carers took the utmost care of Alan and brightened his day. A part of the Centurions memorial to Alan: “The injury suffered by Alan and other players was the call to action for administrators of our game to change the rules of our game to provide greater safety for front row players in scrums. It also led to removing a competitive points table in the President’s grade and to “Presidents Day”, in which all President’s teams came together once a year to play near each other to celebrate rugby and show their support for our VIPs.” 2 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Contents Obituaries Notice of Annual General Meeting Officers of 2024 Chair and CE’s Report Strategic Reset 2023/2024 2024 Serious Injuries Treasurer’s Report Priority Funds PERFORMANCE REPORT Non-financial Information Entity Information Approval of Financial Report Statement of Service Performance Financial Information Statement of Financial Performance Statement of Financial Position Statement of Cash Flow Statement of Accounting Policies Notes to the Performance Report Independent Auditors Report Snapshot Quotes Saving Lives Near Miss Anecdotes Research That Matters Very Injured Players (VIPs) Brain Health Working Group Pettigrew Giving Circle Front Cover Photo Credit: New Zealand Rugby NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 3 20 21 22 23 25 32 36 38 39 40 42 44 46 2 5 6 8 10 11 12 13 16 18 19
NZRF Board (Absent: Melodie Robinson, Hannah Porter, Andy Ellis and Teina Boyd). VIP Dayna Tiwha and Akaiti. VIP Kendall Ackhurst, currently living in London, pictured with Johnny Wilkinson. Loia and VIP Malala Gaono, VIP Seti Tafua, Ben Sturmfels, VIP Lui Te’o and VIP Fetu Ese. 4 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 VIP Peni Moimoi and his wife Ana.
Notice of Annual General Meeting The 2025 Annual General Meeting (38th AGM) of the New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated will be held on Wednesday, 9 April 2025, at 2.00 pm. Level 5, at Sky Grand, Auckland. The meeting will be held in person and also on Zoom. By the constitution of the New Zealand Rugby Foundation Inc.: (a) The Annual General Meeting of the NZ Rugby Foundation shall be held annually at such time and place as the Board shall decide and shall be held not more than four months after the end of the NZ Rugby Foundation’s financial year. (b) The CEO shall give members at least fifteen (15) Business Days written notice of the Annual General Meeting date. (c) Any Member requiring any business to be discussed or any resolution to be considered at the Annual General Meeting shall give notice in writing to the CEO of such business or such resolution no later than ten (10) Business Days before the date fixed for the meeting. (d) The order of business for an Annual General Meeting shall be; ORDER OF BUSINESS: a) Opening of Meeting – Karakia b) Roll call and quorum c) Apologies d) Obituaries e) Confirmation of Minutes of previous meeting held 10 April 2024. f) The Annual Report: a. Chair and CE report b. Treasurer’s report c. Receive and adopt the audited Statement of Financial Performance and Statement of Financial Position for the previous financial year d. Confirmation of Chairman/Chief Executive/Treasurer reports e. Receive and adopt the Annual Report g) Election/ratification of Officers, Directors and appointment of the Auditor i. Directors due for rotation are Andrew Hall, Graham Mourie, and Simon Tremain who are available. ii. David Latta will be retiring. iii. Ratification of potential new Directors Rowena Davenport Keven Mealamu (NZR representative) iv. Appointment of the Auditor h) Consider any business or proposed resolutions of which notice has been given. i) Transact any general business. j) Closure – Karakia Lisa Kingi-Bon Chief Executive NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 5
Officers of 2024 PATRONS PRESIDENT FOUNDING PRESIDENT ORIGINAL FIRST XV Sir Graham Henry KNZM Richie McCaw ONZ Andy Dalton Sir Russell Pettigrew F.Inst. D, FCIT K.T † Sir David Beattie, Sir Russell Pettigrew, Sir Brian Lochore, Sir Desmond Sullivan, Sir Wilson Whineray, J.G Frazer, B.J Drake, J.J Stewart, G.C McKay, A.R Leslie, R.A Harper, B.A Hancox, K.R Tremain, R.W Thomas, I.A Vodanovich BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrew Golightly Melodie Robinson Mark Peters Rowena Davenport David Latta Simon Tremain Dr John Mayhew ONZM Graham Mourie MBE Andrew Hall Prof Steve Morris Hannah Porter Teina Boyd Heidi Beech Andy Ellis HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Sir Russell Hilton Pettigrew F.Inst.D, FCIT K.T RNZN 3886, WWII. † Sir Colin Earl Meads KNZM MBE † Sir David John Graham KNZM CBE ED † Richie Guy ONZM Colin Gibbons JP Maurice Trapp Tane Norton MNZM † Andy Leslie MNZM CHIEF EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT AUDITORS BANKERS ADMINISTRATION Lisa Kingi-Bon Angela Davies Crowe Australasia – Auckland Bank of New Zealand Newmarket Sport Auckland House Level 4, Alexandra Park Function Centre Greenlane West Epsom Ph: (09) 623 7980 Email: lisa@rugbyfoundation.nz Footnote: When placed immediately before or after a person’s name, the cross indicates that the person is deceased † Chair Deputy Chair Treasurer NZR representative 6 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Patron Sir Graham Henry and Rt Hon Sir John Key. VIP Bob Symon. VIP Ross Ormsby with Laura McGoldrick at 2024 Eden Park Luncheon. VIP Kerrin Tilley at work. Team Photo, Eden Park Luncheon 2024. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 7
Chair and CE’s Report The nature of our work dictates that every year provides much sadness but also so much joy. And 2024 certainly did that. It was a challenging year on the field, with four deaths. Three were due to cardiac events, which could have happened anywhere, and one caused by traumatic brain injury. We hold these families close. Moe mai ra, rest in peace Jade Halkett, Ali Prescott, Brook Wilson and Cory Heather. Unfortunately, there was a further traumatic brain injury, which left us a new VIP in Semisi Naiqara. An amazing story of the power of the human spirit you can read overleaf. Our core purpose, kaupapa, will always be our permanently injured players and the families and children who lose their parents playing the game we love. If you want to know what New Zealand looks like, look at our roll of VIPs. Serious injury does not discriminate; we partner with families from all walks of life. As our Treasurer Mark Peters notes in his report, the economy provided significant challenges to our fundraising programmes. We have used all of the interest and dividends and needed to use $119k of the investment fund to meet the core trading deficit. Our support is enduring. It is “for life” for our players. Therefore, our capital fund is vital for the future. We are one of 28,000 registered charities in New Zealand. We are niche in a competitive environment for the charity dollar. KEY MOMENTS • Losing three of our VIPs. Alan Boyd, Mike GirlingButcher, and Jim Campbell. These men were injured in the 70’s and 80’s and have all lived remarkable lives. They trailblazed many of you who followed to emulate ‘what is possible.’ We are honoured to have known them. We still stay in touch with families. • Supporting their families as they lost their loved ones is the most challenging part of our work. Cory Heather (TBI) and three cardiac events. Jake Halkett, Ali Prescott and Brook Wilson. These families are held close to us. • New life: We’ve welcomed two babies: Michael and Tatiana Fatialofa’s, Tommy and Darryl and Candice Sabin’s, Ava Rose. We are delighted for both families. • Near Miss Player Support: We provided direct assistance to 68 families, ensuring they received the necessary support and navigation. We partnered with a health system that primarily provides excellent primary medical emergency response. Navigating the health system has not been without its challenges. There are still three surgeries to go. • Hosting VIPs and Near Misses: We love hosting our injured players and seeing the benefits they and their close ones gain from being together. If you want to know what New Zealand looks like, look at our roll of VIPs. Serious injury does not discriminate; we partner with families from all walks of life. 8 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 • Community Outreach: Of the 480 rugby clubs in New Zealand, 316 clubs have an AED, of which 122 of these clubs have had their AED donated by the NZ Rugby Foundation. The costs amounting to $244,000.00 have been covered by third party funding from community and gaming trust organisations (164 units are still required.) • We launched the Heart Club on World Restart a Heart Day on 21 October. This initiative is crucial in raising awareness and educating the public on resuscitation knowledge, a key aspect of our mission to ensure the safety of rugby players and the wider community. • Partnerships: We reaffirm collaboration partnerships with our nine Global Charity counterparts, World Rugby, NZR, and NZRPA, with the Brain Health project, the Auckland University Centre for Brain Research, and the Neurological Foundation. Gratitude goes to several people at ACC whose service has been excellent. There have been many times when we have needed a quick answer and they delivery every time. New Zealand is very fortunate to have the ACC, as highlighted when we compare ourselves to our nine international counterpart organisations. We are very grateful to many at New Zealand Rugby for such excellent collaboration. We also acknowledge World Rugby who included all rugby charities in their global annual medical and science meetings for the first time last year. Special note of thanks to John Miller and his team at John Miller Law, who have been so generous with their time and expertise.
Our support is enduring. It is “for life” for our players. Therefore, our capital fund is vital for the future. VIP Semisi Naiqara and his family. • The Brain Health Working Group was created in December 2022. The New Zealand Rugby Foundation, New Zealand Rugby and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association have collaborated to establish best practices for managing concussion risks in rugby. Like any contact sport, rugby carries the risk of injury, but we believe our game can be played safely without compromising the competitive element or spectacle. The Brain Health and Concussion plan sets out our collective actions to keep every player as safe as possible from concussion risks. The plan outlines initiatives that New Zealand Rugby will deliver over the next three years, and these initiatives will be reviewed annually to ensure we remain at the forefront of this rapidly developing area. The plan is centred on five key focus areas injury prevention, training and education, injury management, research and monitoring, and communication. New Zealand Rugby unveils comprehensive Concussion Risk Management Plan • The board has driven a review of who we are and what we do. This will be launched at the AGM on 9 April 2025 in Auckland after an extensive process that will provide a clear roadmap for the future. It included internal and broad external stakeholder consultation, ensuring that our future direction is aligned with the needs and expectations of our stakeholders. • We have supported two Research projects: Kumanu Tāngata: The AfterMatch Project and Brain Recovery and Preparedness in Adolescents using Imaging after a Rugby season (Brain-RePAIR) update. (Please refer to pages 40 & 41) • We were part of seven fundraising events in a very tough economic climate. Two were our own and we are grateful to Massey, the Centurions, and Harlequins for including us at their annual events, as well as Whanganui Rugby Union and Active Building Management. Our own events were the Patron’s Black-Tie Dinner and the Annual Eden Park Pre-Test Luncheon. Fundraising event income for the year totalled over $520,000.00. • 78 grants and services provided to our cohort, including various aspects, from garden maintenance, crucial home maintenance, Higher education, sports pursuits and professional development. • Standout highlight: When a player defies all medical odds! On 5 September, Semisi Naiqara suffered a lifechanging TBI. He was playing for Wesley College 1st XV vs. Liston College. Surgery occurred that night, and the medical prognosis was dire. Essentially, they prepared the family ‘for the worst’. His life support was switched off, and he continued to breathe independently for two days. On 21 October, he was discharged from Auckland Hospital to the excellent ABI facility in Ranui. Well, this beautiful young man still surprises everyone daily. Promising signs of progress fill his family, friends, and teammates with optimism. So, we have VIP #118. In time Semisi will get back to school. Time is wonderful, but nothing is stronger than the human spirit in whatever way it shows up. There is much hope, and much need for support. We acknowledge and thank our VIP whānau, Schools, Clubs, Provincial Unions, New Zealand Rugby, our wonderful sponsors, suppliers and donors. Because we are better together! A special note of thanks to our Staff and Board for their contribution to ensure the ongoing legacy of the Rugby Foundation. Lisa Kingi-Bon Chief Executive, NZ Rugby Foundation Andrew Golightly Board Chair, NZ Rugby Foundation NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 9
Strategic Reset 2023/2024 Vision Purpose Strategic Pillars What we do Underpinned by Strategies How we do it To always stand alongside Rugby’s seriously injured players Thriving futures for Rugby’s seriously injured players & whānau. Support Champion Support: We deliver because we care Values How we behave Compassion: Empathy in everything we do Outcome Champion: We move fast, fight hard but fair Courage: Be at our best when we need to be Connection: Because we’re better together To have the resources and expertise to do the best job possible for all of Rugby’s seriously injured players Collaborate: Enduring and deep personal relationships Commitment: Do what you said you were going to do Our independence, resources and expertise allow us to always stand alongside Rugby’s seriously injured players and whānau to help them achieve their mana motuhake. Collaborate A YEAR OF EXPLORATION AND NAVIGATION • 2024 was a year where we took stock and planned for the future. – We contracted an independent researcher to initially understand our own board members and senior leaders’ individual perspectives on what the organisation’s current state is and what the future state might be. – We then interviewed some of our VIPs and their whānau, our stakeholder and partner organisations, the media and former board members. – This work informed a strategic review and future scenario planning sessions by the board and senior leadership. – Resulting in a focusing and simplification of our brand purpose and resulting strategies. SUMMARY OF INDEPENDENT RESEARCH FINDINGS • Unanimously the Foundation was given an A+ report card for its work, approach and effectiveness by all interviewed which is obviously very pleasing to hear. • However, we didn’t undertake this to hear praise. We were seeking to understand outside perspectives on where to and what next for the Foundation. • We explored several key themes with all respondents. Key theme: Do what we do best and never stop asking questions. 10 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
2024 Serious Injuries WHAT IS A SERIOUS INJURY? Serious injuries have the potential to result in permanent disablement to players. These are reportable incidents: 1. A head or spinal injury or medical event (e.g. a heart attack) that results in the player being admitted to the hospital. 2. An injury or medical event (e.g. a heart attack) that results in the death of a player during match play or rugby training. 3. An injury that is expected to result in some permanent disability (e.g. loss of use of a limb, loss of an eye). WHAT IS A NEAR MISS? A serious injury of a player in the above categories who fully recovers. Head Rugby’s a great game. Just ask the thousands of people who pull on their jerseys every weekend – no matter what the weather may be. Most games, players walk off the field, sometimes quite muddy, and very happy. Every so often, someone is very seriously injured. Occasionally, the injury can be life changing. That is why we’re here. There were 68 serious injuries in 2024, and we acknowledge the players, their parents, Spine Heart Deceased Other Serious Injury Reported (i.e. Near Miss) grandparents, partners, siblings, friends, and children who were affected. We understand that it’s a challenging and stressful time. We also know that every single journey is different. Our support is what is required, sitting alongside the health system. We are proud to have provided as much mental health support as we have and also acknowledge our funders and donors who have supported us in this specific area. NEAR MISS 2024 numbers Male Female While there were 82 reported injuries, only 68 of them were near misses. TRUE MISS 2024 numbers Male Female 49 19 68 Head Spine Heart (Heart Club member) 59 23 82 23 29 1 4 11 14 82 72% 28% 100% 28% 35% Surgery – spine 1% Surgery – face 5% 13% 17% 100% Surgery – Head Surgery – Other 3 10 19 16% 53% 100% 1 5% 5 26% Deceased (One TBI, three deceased) Other Serious Injury Reported (i.e. Near Miss) 23 29 1 4 11 0 68 72% 28% 100% 34% 43% 1% 6% 16% 0% 100% We provided direct assistance to 68 families, ensuring they received the necessary support and navigation. We partnered with a health system that primarily provides excellent primary medical emergency response. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 11
Treasurer’s Report The 2024 Financial result of a core operating deficit of $119k, but an overall surplus of $426k after growth in value of the Foundation’s Investment Fund is, in summary, the results of some good, some bad and some excellent. THE GOOD: Ben and his team have performed superbly in running two major fundraising functions, in very difficult economic times, that have been outstanding successes. The now keenly sought-after Black Tie Dinner produced a net revenue gain of over $200k and the annual Auckland Luncheon a net gain of $124k. Both these events were extremely professionally run and enjoyed by all participants. Notwithstanding that overall revenue was, while slightly up on 2023, behind budget, the Foundation was able to increase overall grants to $490k ($415k in 2023) and to contribute $76k to worthwhile Research projects. Lisa and her team have outstandingly maintained the number one priority of the Foundation, being care for our family of Very Injured Players. THE BAD: In a word – the Economy. Probably one of the hardest years in New Zealand’s domestic economy, certainly since the GFC in 2008, and probably even earlier, meant that the hugely successful 2023 programme of Taskforce Income and Major Gifts was very hard to keep momentum with during 2024. Again, Ben and his team have worked really hard in this area to maintain ongoing contact with donors and members who will, when the economy picks up, without doubt return to our giving circles. The upshot of all this in 2024 was a decrease in revenue from these two areas to $190k ($296k in 2023). The economy is outside of our control, but we just have to deal with conditions as we find them, and the Foundation has coped pretty well overall. THE EXCELLENT: Twofold. Firstly, despite a hard year, the Foundation Board, Management and Staff have kept the core activities and business of the Foundation operating smoothly, coping with all the serious injuries during the year and giving our overall strategy a The economy is outside of our control, but we just have to deal with conditions as we find them, and the Foundation has coped pretty well overall. thorough review- which no doubt Chair Andrew and CEO Lisa, will cover more fully in their reports. Secondly, and the big financial result of the year, was the continued superb management of our investment fund through 2024 by Bruce, Tom and others at JB Were. The fund grew in value by $546k – giving an overall surplus result for the year of $426k. While we prefer to keep any capital growth in this fund as future proofing of the Foundation’s Capital, we did have to utilise $119k of the growth to offset this year’s core operating deficit. Nevertheless, to enable the Foundation to carry on its excellent work well into the future, it is imperative that the investment fund be kept as intact as possible, and that continued growth is mostly retained as reserves. For sure there will at some time be the odd year where that growth may be negative. So in summary and overall, not too bad a year for the Foundation. Our balance sheet remains strong, and while revenue is becoming harder to generate, and expenses out of our control continue to rise, we are still in a strong position to look to the future with some confidence. My thanks to Chair Andrew for his ongoing leadership and support, my excellent Business Committee members and the entire board for their commitment to the principles of the Foundation, and to our excellent staff well lead by Lisa who keep the wheels always turning in the right direction. Mark Peters FCA VIP Braden Coates and Hayley Ireland. Credit Emma McCarthy and the NZ Dairy Exporter. 12 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Treasurer, NZ Rugby Foundation
Priority Funds Below is how we support our VIP and how our donors can select where their support is allocated. CAREER & EDUCATION FUND By donating towards this fund, you enable seriously injured players and their significant others and children to achieve an education they might otherwise not be able to attain due to the financial limitations of a family caring for a seriously injured player. WELLBEING & WHĀNAU SUPPORT FUND By donating to this fund, you are supporting initiatives that will improve the emotional, spiritual and mental wellbeing of seriously injured players and their whānau, which they may otherwise be unable to access. PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT & EQUIPMENT FUND The seriously injured players we support have suffered lifelong and debilitating injuries, but your donation to this fund will enable us to provide the specialised mobility equipment and adaptive devices that will allow them to ride a bike, play basketball and pass the footy ball again. HOME & GARDEN MAINTENANCE FUND Maintaining a tidy and attractive yard is an intrinsic value for most kiwis. By donating to this fund, you provide us with the means to take an additional burden from our seriously injured players and their families, while instilling the sense of pride a great looking garden and lawn produces. VIP Phil Booth on his SiMAX Handcycle Simulator. RESEARCH FUND The research projects we support are focused on safe and injury free participation in rugby and we have a particular interest in sports concussion and injury prevention. Concussion is the most common injury suffered at top-level rugby and studies show a clear link between repeated concussion and early-onset dementia, depression and other neurological diseases. Your donation could help researchers to more fully understand concussive events in rugby and work towards potential solutions. GENERAL FUND By donating to the General Fund, your gift provides us with the flexibility to respond where the need is greatest, whether this be to support our seriously injured players, to contribute to Prevention, Research and Education, or to our advocacy work on behalf of the rugby community. CAPITAL FUND By giving to the Capital Fund, you are helping protect and build capital which will provide a lasting legacy that our current and future injured players can always rely on. TRADING INCOME & INVESTMENT RETURNS $2,500,000.00 2,142,192.48 $2,000,000.00 1,764,702.72 1,536,441.80 $1,500,000.00 1,258,641.04 $1,000,000.00 $500,000.00 $2021 2022 2023 2024 NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 13
VIP Braden Coates and Hayley Ireland on their wedding day. VIP Darryl, Candice and Ava Rose Sabin. VIP Robbie Hewitt. Credit to Cherie Harris. VIP Alex Dalzell. VIP Raana Tangaere hunting with whānau. Director Steve Morris with VIP AJ and Barb Gardiner. 14 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Performance Report New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 Contents 3 5 6 7 8 9 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 32 Entity Information Approval of Financial Report Statement of Service Performance Statement of Financial Performance Statement of Financial Position Statement of Cash Flows 10 12 19 Statement of Accounting Policies Notes to the Performance Report Independent Auditor's Report NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 15
Entity Information New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 Legal Name of Entity New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated Entity Type and Legal Basis Incorporated Society and Registered Charity Registration Number CC42547 Entity's Purpose or Mission Simply, our core business focuses on: 1. Supporting catastrophically injured rugby players financially and emotionally, for life; 2. Fundraising activities; 3. Working with New Zealand Rugby and ACC to communicate the message of safety first, advocating safe play. Our four core pillars are: * Support * Prevention * Advocacy * Relationships Directors Andy Dalton (President) Andrew Golightly (Chair) Melodie Robinson (Deputy Chair) Mark Peters (Treasurer) Rowena Davenport (NZR Representative) Andy Ellis Andrew Hall David Latta Dr John Mayhew ONZM Graham Mourie MBE Hannah Porter Prof. Stephen Morris 16 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Entity Information Heidi Beech Simon Tremain Teina Boyd Officers Andy Dalton (President) Sir Graham Henry KNZM (Patron) Richie McCaw ONZ (Patron) Main Sources of Entity's Cash and Resources The majority of revenue has been received from our annual New Zealand Rugby grant and Gaming funding, with the remainder through fundraising events, capital investments and sponsorship in kind. Main Methods Used by Entity to Raise Funds Fundraising activities include an annual luncheon which has occured since 1987, our first year of operation. We are the nominated charity at a number of events throughout New Zealand, where we receive significant donations. We have regular applications to Community and Gaming Trusts. Relationship management with commercial sponsors and New Zealand Rugby. Entity's Reliance on Volunteers and Donated Goods or Services We received governance support from volunteers. We received donated goods and services which assist in the successful running of our fundraising events. Contact Details Level 4, Alexandra Park Function Centre, Epsom, Auckland P O Box 26599, Epsom, Auckland Phone: 09 623 7900 www.rugbyfoundation.nz office@rugbyfoundation.nz NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 17
Approval of Financial Report New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 The Directors are pleased to present the approved financial report including the historical financial statements of New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated for year ended 31 December 2024. APPROVED Andrew Golightly Chair Date ..................................... 26 March 2025 Mark Peters FCA Treasurer Date ..................................... 26 March 2025 18 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Statement of Service Performance New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 Description of Entity's Outcomes Provide a strong supportive and partnership orientated Very Injured Player (VIP) community. We aim to partner with our VIPs in reaching their goals, including them in the rugby community and enabling their life opportunities. 2024 Description and Quantification of the Entity's Outputs Total number of VIPs since records began Total number of current VIPs New VIPs during the year Near Miss Incidents (*) Near Miss Incidents - Males Near Miss Incidents - Females VIP Grants and Services Provided Deaths of Players on field by rugby Deaths of Players on/off field, medical event or accident not by rugby Number of Fundraising Events Additional Information 21 VIP have passed away since records began in 1966. * 82 reported ofwhich 68 were true Near Miss COMPARATIVE 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 2023 118 97 1 117 99 1 68 49 19 78 1 3 7 59 42 17 71 - - 7 2024 2023 2022 2021 This statement should be read in conjunction with the following Statement of Accounting Policies and Notes to the Performance Report. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 19 Total number of VIPs since records began Total number of current VIPs New VIPs during Near Miss Incidents * Near Miss Incidents – Male Near Miss incidents – Female VIPs Grants and Services provided Deaths of Players on field by rugby Deaths of Players on/off field, medical event or accident not by rugby Number of Fundraising events
Statement of Financial Performance New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 NOTES Operating Revenue Donations, fundraising and other similar revenue Fees, subscriptions and other revenue from members Revenue from providing goods or services Interest and dividends Other revenue Total Operating Revenue Operating Expenses Expenses related to public fundraising Volunteer and employee related costs Costs related to providing goods or service Grants and donations made Other expenses Total Operating Expenses Net Operating Surplus/(Deficit) Before Investment Value Gain Gain on Investment Value Gain on Investment Value Total Gain on Investment Value Net Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year 2 2 2 2 2 2024 2023 1 1 1 1 1 1,311,822 16,835 19,577 217,973 30,176 1,596,383 216,005 544,884 370,322 490,590 93,665 1,715,466 (119,082) 545,809 545,809 426,727 1,214,942 16,735 15,716 200,311 39,847 1,487,551 240,538 468,352 338,906 415,722 87,741 1,551,258 (63,707) 280,943 280,943 217,235 20 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 This statement should be read in conjunction with the following Statement of Accounting Policies and Notes to the Performance Report.
Statement of Financial Position New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated As at 31 December 2024 NOTES Assets Current Assets Bank accounts and cash Debtors and prepayments Inventory Total Current Assets Non-Current Assets Investments Property, Plant and Equipment Total Non-Current Assets Total Assets Liabilities Current Liabilities Creditors and accrued expenses Employee costs payable Unused donations and grants with conditions Total Current Liabilities Total Liabilities Total Assets less Total Liabilities (Net Assets) Accumulated Funds Current Year Earnings Retained Earnings Total Accumulated Funds 3 5 31 DEC 2024 31 DEC 2023 3 3 3 23,933 57,175 12,765 93,873 6,848,317 62,101 6,910,418 7,004,290 54,315 17,422 17,244 88,980 6,394,780 74,573 6,469,353 6,558,334 4 4 4 65,500 26,707 41,135 133,341 133,341 6,870,949 426,727 6 6,444,222 6,870,949 73,587 27,580 12,944 114,111 114,111 6,444,222 217,235 6,226,987 6,444,222 This statement should be read in conjunction with the following Statement of Accounting Policies and Notes to the Performance Report. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 21
Statement of Cash Flows New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 Cash Flows from Operating Activities Donations, fundraising and other similar revenue Fees, subscriptions and other receipts from members Receipts from providing goods or services Interest, dividends and other investment receipts Other revenue Net GST Payments to suppliers and employees Grants and donations made Expenses relating to public fundraising Total Cash Flows from Operating Activities 2023 1,293,198 16,835 24,056 160,611 - 7,061 (969,886) (490,590) (216,005) (174,720) 2024 Cash Flows from Investing and Financing Activities Receipts from the disposal of property, plant and equipment Receipts from the sale of investments/maturity of bonds Payments to acquire property, plant and equipment Payments to acquire investments Total Cash Flows from Investing and Financing Activities 1,250,045 16,735 18,185 114,648 - (14,483) (808,193) (408,406) (240,538) (72,007) 2023 198 - 858,168 (5,495) (708,534) 144,337 2024 Net Increase/(Decrease) in Cash Opening Cash Closing Cash Total Net Increase/(Decrease) in Cash 584,340 (81,213) (509,630) (6,503) 2023 54,315 23,933 (30,382) 132,825 54,315 (78,510) 22 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 This statement should be read in conjunction with the following Statement of Accounting Policies and Notes to the Performance Report.
Statement of Accounting Policies New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 1. Basis of Preparation New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated (The Foundation) has elected to apply PBE SFR-A (NFP) Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting - Accrual (Not-For-Profit) on the basis that it does not have public accountability and has total annual expenses equal to or less than $5,000,000. All transactions in the Performance Report are reported using the accrual basis of accounting. The Performance Report is prepared under the assumption that the entity will continue to operate in the foreseeable future. 1.1 Goods and Services Tax (GST) The Foundation is registered for GST. All amounts are stated exclusive of goods and services tax (GST) except for accounts payable and accounts receivable which are stated inclusive of GST. 1.2 Income Tax New Zealand Rugby Foundation Inc is wholly exempt from New Zealand income tax having fully complied with all statutory conditions for these exemptions. 1.3 Bank Accounts and Cash Bank accounts and cash in the Statement of Cash Flows comprise cash balances and bank balances (including short term deposits) with original maturities of 90 days or less. 1.4 Revenue Revenue received from donations is accounted for on a cash basis because the general nature of this income is not certain until it is received. Grant revenue is recognised when the conditions attached to the revenue has been complied with. Where there are unfulfilled conditions attached to that grant, the amount relating to the unfulfilled condition is recognised as a liability and released to income as the conditions are fulfilled. Revenue received from professional fundraisers is accounted for on a net basis as the Foundation does not incur nor is liable for the expenditure. 1.5 Sponsorship in Kind The Foundation receives donated items for auction and events, but the value is not certain until the sale, therefore the revenue is recognised when the item is sold. 1.6 Accounts Receivable Accounts Receivable are stated at their estimated realisable value. 1.7 Investments Shares The Foundation has elected to account for share investments in accordance with PBE IPSAS41 Financial Instruments. The fair value of the share investments has been determined by reference to their quotes at reporting date. Share investments are publicly traded on the New Zealand and overseas markets. Gains and losses are recorded via investment revaluation. Investments that are shares are categorised as "financial assets at fair value through profit and loss" for accounting purposes in accordance with financial reporting standards. Subsequent to initial recognition, these assets are measured at fair value. Dividends are recognised as income in the Statement of Financial Performance. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 23
Statement of Accounting Policies Bonds Fixed Interest Investments are carried at cost. If the market value of bonds is below historical cost, the bonds are recorded at market value. Gains and losses are recorded via investment revaluation. Bonds are comprised of New Zealand and offshore bonds. The offshore bonds have been valued at market value at 31 December 2024 as the market value of the bonds is below the historical cost at that date. 1.8 Accounts Payable Accounts Payable are recorded at the amount of cash required to settle those liabilities. 1.9 Functional and Presentational Currency All balances within these financial statements are stated in New Zealand dollars ($). Amounts are rounded to the nearest dollar. 1.10 Inventory Inventory is stated at the lower of cost, determined on a "first-in-first-out" basis, and net realisable value. 1.11 Fixed Assets All owned items of Furniture and Fittings are initially recorded at cost, and depreciated using Diminishing Value as outlined below: - Office Furniture and Equipment 11.4% to 60% - Website 60% - Motor Vehicle 20% Where an item of furniture or equipment is disposed of, the gain or loss is recognised in the Statement of Financial Performance and is calculated as the difference between the net sale price and the carrying value of the asset. 1.12 Foreign Exchange Movements Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to NZD at the settlement rate. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies in the Statement of Financial Position are translated to NZD at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on their translation are recognised in the Statement of Financial Performance. 1.13 Changes in Accounting Policies There have been no changes in accounting policies of the Foundation in the year ended 31 December 2024, other than the adoption of the new PBE standard for share investments as disclosed below. Other than the change disclosed below, all accounting policies have been applied on a consistent basis with those of previous reporting period. PBE IPSAS41 - Financial Instruments The standard replaces previous accounting requirements for financial instruments. The standard establishes new classifications for financial assets at either amortised cost or at fair value based on how entities manage those assets and the cash flow characteristics. The new standard had no impact to the Foundation financial statements. 24 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Notes to the Performance Report New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated For the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 1. Analysis of Revenue Donations, fundraising and other similar revenue Auckland Luncheon Income Charity Golf Days Income Fundraising Events Income Fundraising Taskforce Income Gaming Trusts - NZRF Overheads Gaming Trusts - VIP General Donations Major Gifts NZR Grant Total Donations, fundraising and other similar revenue Fees, subscriptions and other revenue from members Members Donations Total Fees, subscriptions and other revenue from members Revenue from providing goods or services Memorabilia Sales Proceeds from Cookbook Test Tickets Total Revenue from providing goods or services Interest and dividends Dividends Interest Total Interest and dividends Other revenue Gain / Loss on Sale of Bonds Sponsorship in Kind Total Other revenue 179,585 - 340,449 165,800 113,165 50,192 24,535 38,095 400,000 1,311,822 16,835 16,835 18,200 - 1,377 19,577 95,113 122,860 217,973 115,181 15,818 326,108 222,000 36,655 - 22,913 76,267 400,000 1,214,942 16,735 16,735 11,000 69 4,648 15,716 89,455 110,856 200,311 - 30,176 30,176 3,791 36,056 39,847 2023 NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 25
Notes to the Performance Report 2024 2023 2. Analysis of Expenses Expenses related to public fundraising Auckland Luncheon Expenses Charity Golf Days Expenses Cost of Donors and Sponsors Event Management / Professional Fees Fundraising Events Expenses Fundraising Taskforce Marquee Event Expenses Total Expenses related to public fundraising Volunteer and employee related costs ACC Chair Discretionary Expense KiwiSaver Employer Contributions Salaries Staff Professional Development Total Volunteer and employee related costs Costs related to providing goods or services Accommodation and Travel (outside of Auckland) Accounting Administration Advertising / Marketing / Printing Audit Fees Bank Fees Board Meeting Expenses Computer Expenses Electronic Transaction Fees Entertainment General Expenses Insurance Memorabilia Payments Office Equipment Parking and Taxis (within Auckland) Postage and Courier Printing, Photocopying and Stationery Rent Research Subscriptions Telephone and Internet Test Tickets Reimbursement Vehicle Expenses - Petrol, Mileage and Other Vehicle Lease 55,178 - 11,812 130 131,606 14,413 2,865 216,005 2,012 22,595 14,509 495,604 10,164 544,884 31,054 7,200 7,611 15,122 9,000 1,624 84,784 12,479 1,475 32,028 3,609 10,622 8,621 589 7,202 583 1,777 32,820 76,337 4,536 5,227 1,443 10,283 366 84,398 70 17,998 - 125,907 11,964 202 240,538 2,147 6,220 13,297 435,659 11,030 468,352 42,280 7,200 19,295 17,825 9,275 254 62,783 11,927 1,594 18,430 2,239 10,362 12,613 880 8,506 1,674 2,093 32,820 40,000 2,607 7,203 4,874 7,021 8,179 26 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Notes to the Performance Report 2024 2023 Website Expenses Total Costs related to providing goods or services Grants and donations made Grants - Gaming Funded Grants - Gifts and Other Grants - Hosting Grants - Injured Players Grants - Major Builds Grants - Near Miss Grants - Relationship Total Grants and donations made Other expenses Advertising / Promotions SIK Depreciation Gain / Loss on Sale of Fixed Assets Interest Expense Investment Fees Legal Fees SIK Total Other expenses 3,928 370,322 50,193 14,081 65,463 177,530 27,253 49,782 106,288 490,590 15,565 17,769 (147) 663 45,204 14,612 93,665 2024 3. Analysis of Assets Bank accounts and cash BNZ 10 BNZ CHEQUE 00 RAPID SAVE 97 JB Were Call Accounts Total Bank accounts and cash Debtors and prepayments Accounts Receivable GST Prepayments Total Debtors and prepayments Inventory Merchandise on Hand Total Inventory Investments Bonds Shares Total Investments 12,765 12,765 2,707,365 4,140,951 6,848,317 17,244 17,244 3,057,062 3,337,719 6,394,780 6,969 338,906 - 11,096 16,928 190,658 71,648 60,997 64,394 415,722 15,686 9,786 733 - 42,511 19,025 87,741 2023 172 175 10,596 12,990 23,933 35,912 3,507 17,756 57,175 201 30,543 45 23,526 54,315 1,358 10,569 5,495 17,422 NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 27
Notes to the Performance Report 2024 2023 4. Analysis of Liabilities Creditors and accrued expenses Accounts Payable Accruals Credit Cards Total Creditors and accrued expenses Employee costs payable Employee Entitlements Total Employee costs payable Unused donations and grants with conditions Income Received in Advance Total Unused donations and grants with conditions 5. Property, Plant and Equipment 2024 Asset Class 26,068 24,510 14,922 65,500 26,707 26,707 41,135 41,135 32,908 26,044 14,636 73,587 27,580 27,580 12,944 12,944 Opening Carrying Amount Furniture and fixtures 1,449 Office equipment 228 Computers (including software) Motor Vehicles Total 2023 Asset Class 7,251 65,645 74,573 Purchases - - 5,495 - 5,495 Sales/Disposals - 67 131 - 198 Current Year Depreciation and Impairment 324 69 4,247 13,129 17,769 Closing Carrying Amount 1,125 92 8,368 52,516 62,101 Opening Carrying Amount Furniture and fixtures 1,889 Office equipment 327 Computers (including software) Motor Vehicles Total 1,424 - 3,640 Purchases - - 7,625 73,588 81,213 Sales/Disposals - - 494 - 494 Current Year Depreciation and Impairment 440 99 1,304 7,943 9,786 Closing Carrying Amount 1,449 228 7,251 65,645 74,573 28 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Notes to the Performance Report 2024 2023 6. Accumulated Funds Accumulated Funds Opening Balance Surplus/(Deficit) Total Accumulated Funds 6,444,222 426,727 6,870,949 2024 7. Breakdown of Reserves Reserves Goodman Fielder Wattie Limited New Zealand Rugby Total Reserves 6,226,987 217,235 6,444,222 2023 1,000,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 In the 1987 Annual Report "The success of the Foundation has been assured by the generous participation of Goodman Fielder Wattie Limited contracting to the sum of $1 million." The President's report continues, It is the policy of the Foundation not to dissipate it's funds but to provide any support from fund income." Funding agreement of 2000, and a further variation in 2003. The funding agreement states; "The funding be retained as a capital sum so that the Foundation may only expend income earned from the investment of the funding." 8. Commitments 2024 Description Injured Player Grants Office Rent Total Nature of Commitment Grants approved in 2024 to be paid in 2025 The Foundation leases office space at Sport Auckland House, the agreement may be terminated by either party giving six months written notice 15,750 15,750 - Within one year Between one to five years - - - 2023 Description Injured Player Grants Office Rent Total Nature of Commitment Grants approved in 2023 to be paid in 2024 14,020 The Foundation leases office space at Sport Auckland House, the agreement may be terminated by either party giving six months written notice - 15,750 29,770 - Within one year Between one to five years - NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 29
Notes to the Performance Report 9. Contingent Liabilities and Guarantees There are no contingent liabilities or guarantees as at 31 December 2024 (Last year - nil). 2024 10. Goods or Services Provided to the Entity in Kind Beverage for events (DB/Yealands/Foleys/Butterworth Wines/Luna Wines) Design and print (PDQ) Legal advice (Claymores/John Miller Law) Vehicle (LIBBET Limited) Total Goods or Services Provided to the Entity in Kind 2023 7,265 8,300 14,612 - 30,176 2024 11. Related Parties Revenue New Zealand Rugby (Annual Grant) New Zealand Rugby (Black Tie Dinner) Total Revenue Expenses New Zealand Rugby (Research) New Zealand Rugby (Test Tickets) New Zealand Rugby (Vehicle Lease) Total Expenses 15,686 - 19,025 1,345 36,056 2023 400,000 3,000 403,000 400,000 - 400,000 - - - - 40,000 7,283 249 47,532 The Foundation have a responsibility to coordinate with New Zealand Rugby in giving effect to the objectives of the Foundation. To monitor this, Rowena Davenport, a Director of New Zealand Rugby is also a Director of this Foundation. 30 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Notes to the Performance Report 12. Events After the Balance Date There were no events that have occurred after the balance date that would have a material impact on the Performance Report (Last year - nil). 13. Ability to Continue Operating The entity will continue to operate for the foreseeable future. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 31
Crowe New Zealand Audit Partnership Level 17, 88 Shortland Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010 C/- Crowe Mail Centre, Private Bag 90106 Invercargill 9840 Main +64 9 303 4586 Fax +64 9 309 1198 www.crowe.nz INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE BOARD OF MANAGEMENT OF NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INCORPORATED Opinion We have audited the performance report of New Zealand Rugby Foundation Incorporated (the Incorporated Society) which comprise the financial statements on pages 20 to 31, the statement of service performance on page 19 and the entity information on pages 16 to 17. The complete set of financial statements comprise the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2024, and the statement of financial performance and statement of cash flows for the year ended, and the accounting policies and other explanatory information. In our opinion, the accompanying performance report presents fairly, in all material respects: ▪ the entity information as at 31 December 2024; ▪ the financial position of the Incorporated Society as at 31 December 2024, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended; and ▪ the service performance of the Incorporated Society for the year ended 31 December 2024 in that the service performance information is appropriate and meaningful and prepared in accordance with the entity’s measurement bases or evaluation methods in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit) issued by the New Zealand Accounting Standards Board. Basis for Opinion We conducted our audit of the financial statements in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand) (ISAs (NZ)), and the audit of the entity information and statement of service performance in accordance with the ISAs (NZ) and New Zealand Auditing Standard (NZ AS) 1 (Revised) The Audit of Service Performance Information. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Performance Report section of our report. We are independent of the Incorporated Society in accordance with Professional and Ethical Standard 1 International Code of Ethics for Assurance Practitioners (including International Independence Standards) (New Zealand) issued by the New Zealand Auditing and Assurance Standards Board, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The title ‘Partner’ conveys that the person is a senior member within their respective division, and is among the group of persons who hold an equity interest (shareholder) in its parent entity, Findex Group Limited. The only professional service offering which is conducted by a partnership is external audit, conducted via the Crowe Australasia external audit division and Unison SMSF Audit. All other professional services offered by Findex Group Limited are conducted by a privately owned organisation and/or its subsidiaries. Findex (Aust) Pty Ltd, trading as Crowe Australasia is a member of Crowe Global, a Swiss verein. Each member firm of Crowe Global is a separate and independent legal entity. Findex (Aust) Pty Ltd and its affiliates are not responsible or liable for any acts or omissions of Crowe Global or any other member of Crowe Global. Crowe Global does not render any professional services and does not have an ownership or partnership interest in Findex (Aust) Pty Ltd. Services are provided by Crowe New Zealand Audit Partnership an affiliate of Findex (Aust) Pty Ltd. © 2024 Findex (Aust) Pty Ltd 33 32 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 statement of
Our firm provides taxation services to the Incorporated Society. The firm has no other relationship with, or interests in, the Incorporated Society. Information Other Than the Performance Report and Auditor’s Report The Board of Management are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the annual report on pages 1 to 14 and 37 to 47, but does not performance report and our auditor’s report thereon. include the Our opinion on the performance report does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of audit opinion or assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the performance report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the performance report or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Board of Management’s Responsibilities for the Performance Report The Board of Management are responsible on behalf of the Incorporated Society for: (a) the preparation and fair presentation of the performance report in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit) issued by the New Zealand Accounting Standards Board; (b) the selection of elements/aspects of service performance measures and/or descriptions and measurement bases or evaluation methods that present service performance information that is appropriate and meaningful in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit); (c) the preparation and fair presentation of service performance information in accordance with the entity’s measurement bases or evaluation methods, in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit); (d) the overall presentation, structure and content of the service performance information in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit); and (e) such internal control as the Board of Management determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial statements and statement of service performance that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the performance report, the Board of Management are responsible for assessing the Incorporated Society’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Board of Management either intend to liquidate the Incorporated Society or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 33
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Performance Report Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the performance report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (NZ) and NZ AS 1 (Revised) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the decisions of users taken on the basis of this performance report. As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (NZ) and NZ AS 1 (Revised), we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: ▪ Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the performance report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. ▪ Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit of the performance report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Incorporated Society’s internal control. ▪ Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management. ▪ Obtain an understanding of the process applied by the entity to select its elements/aspects of service performance, performance measures and/or descriptions and the measurement bases or evaluation methods. ▪ Evaluate whether the selection of elements/aspects of service performance, performance measures and/or descriptions and measurement bases or evaluation methods present an appropriate and meaningful assessment of the entity’s service performance in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit). ▪ Conclude on the appropriateness of the use of the going concern basis of accounting by the Board of Management and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Incorporated Society’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the performance report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Incorporated Society to cease to continue as a going concern. ▪ Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the performance report, including the disclosures, and whether the performance report represents the underlying transactions, events and elements/aspects of service performance in accordance with Public Benefit Entity Simple Format Reporting – Accrual (Not-For-Profit) in a manner that achieves fair presentation. We communicate with the Board of Management regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. 34 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Restriction on Use This report is made solely to the Board of Management, as a body. Our audit has been undertaken so that we might state to the Board of Management those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Incorporated Society and the Board of Management as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Crowe New Zealand Audit Partnership CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Dated at Auckland this 28th day of March 2025 NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 35
Snapshop Quotes “Maybe you can’t prevent accidents, accidents happen anyway. But when they happen to have people who are helping you, who actually care about you… it was awesome … and just like that, they helped us.” “The Rugby Foundation are part of our whānau … They’re part of you and yourself really and when you do catch up with them, it’s like you were chatting yesterday… there’s no you know, there’s no warmup period or anything. It’s just G’day, how ya going, big hugs and you pick up where you left off. If it’s not family, it’s pretty bloody close friends.” “I’ve always loved rugby and now I love the Foundation.” “I’m not an anti rugby person in any way, shape or form. I’m anti on the ones who are still trying to cover it all up. But I still think that Rugby’s a great game. And that it would be a shame if it was altered severely to the point where it’s not what it is now. That’s the physical game and that’s what we pride ourselves on in the game – the physicality and the brutality of it.” “You feel more involved, because you’re a subgroup, you kind of feel like, you’re not really closer to the All Blacks, but there’s a lot of ex All Blacks on the board and they seem to go out of their way to help or to do something to look after you.” “When people ask, I just say, look, we’re we donate to this charity because I believe it’s a good charity, I believe it’s, it does what it says on the tin.” “I liked the fact that they were trying to think outside the box and how to generate another income stream so they didn’t have to rely so much on luncheons and dinners.” “I feel the Rugby Foundation is a good thing, yeah, because it’s kind of kind of makes you feel that they care. Yeah, the rugby union and the rugby community care for you.” 36 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 “Meeting and getting to know the VIPs, hearing their stories and understanding how they are adapting and changing to life after their accident is inspiring and important to donors.”
VIP Grant Sharman with Keven Mealamu and Lance Pakura. VIP Wayne Forest. VIP Jack McSweeney. VIP Kerrin Tilley fishing. VIP Josh Freer loving his new sport. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 37
Saving Lives “In 2016, NZRF board member, John “Doc” Mayhew, suffered a cardiac arrest. NZRF President, Andy Dalton, said the former All Blacks doctor would have died had there not been an AED nearby so that life-saving treatment could be administered without delay. Our Board wanted to ensure that something good came out of the incident. So, we set ourselves the goal of installing AEDs at every rugby club in New Zealand,” said Dalton. Of the 480 rugby clubs in New Zealand, 316 clubs have an AED, of which 122 of these clubs have had their AED donated by the NZ Rugby Foundation with the costs amounting to $244,000. (164 are still required.) Funding has been provided by the Lion Foundation, NZ Community Trust, North and South, Freemasons Foundation and Mainland. Dr John Mayhew said he was extremely proud of the NZRF’s effort. “Our AED programme has already gone toward helping save the lives of four people by providing first-responders with access to the life-saving equipment.” There are seven cardiac arrests in New Zealand every day, over 2000 per year and a survival rate of 11%. As part of ‘World Restart a Heart Day’ the NZRF has launched The ‘Heart Club’. Andy Dalton said, “The purpose of this exclusive club is to recognise and celebrate the lives of our rugby players, and their families and communities. The club also provides a peer support group for people affected by heart and other medical incidents. This is our way of being part of the wider global community which recognises care and wellbeing.” Our role of honour of Club members are the survivors who were resuscitated with an AED: 2016 The founder member is Rugby Foundation Director, Dr John Mayhew 2021 Andrew Bartram (Te Puna Rugby Club, Bay of Plenty) 2022 Heinrich Fourie (Coastal Rugby Club, Taranaki Rugby Union) 2023 Shaheen Amod (Suburbs Rugby Football Club, Auckland) 2024 Bevan Mather (Silverdale Rugby Club, North Harbour) “The purpose of this exclusive club is to recognise and celebrate the lives of our rugby players, and their families and communities. The club also provides a peer support group for people affected by heart and other medical incidents.” Hein Fourie, May 2022, resuscitated by his team mates with a recently gifted NZRF/ NZCT defib. 38 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
Near Miss Anecdotes TAKEN OFF SURVEY MONKEY “I don’t think it could have been handled any better. The player was immediately secured and by team physios and ambulance was there within minutes. Our processes work perfectly and probably had a big impact of the way the player recovered so well.” “This injury happened when jackling over the ball and I feel that is a dangerous part of the game. The player trying to get the ball or penalty are very exposed especially when getting cleaned out and in this case by a much larger player.” “There was no one person we could relate to from the club to find out information regarding the location of and access to safety equipment or the presence of medical personnel onsite or how to access these. We initially felt very much in the dark with my husband and I looking after the seriously injured player and another member of our group ringing 111. A young man with first Aid who recognised concussion symptoms was sent in but his knowledge was limited. Thankfully a member of the injured players team sent a family associate of one of the team members to provide help. She took over dealing with the 111 personnel. It would have been so incredibly helpful if we could have had clear communication with one representative from the club who knew the specific details I have mentioned above.” “Support was quick and followed up regarding which was what we needed. When a family member has an serious injury sometimes you don’t actually know what you need as it’s all such a shock, so it’s good to have someone to keep checking in.” “Having dealt with the Rugby Foundation a couple of times in the last five year I think the work they do is amazing. We are so lucky to have the advise and services provided.” “Very impressed with the regular follow up calls to make sure all was OK.” “So grateful that you helped reimburse our flights back to Invercargill after being helicoptered up there from Gore. Appreciated the regular calls and offer of support as was a scary time for us. But she was very lucky.” NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 39
Research That Matters We have supported two research projects: Brain Recovery and Preparedness in Adolescents using Imaging after a Rugby season (Brain-RePAIR) update Kumanu Tāngata: The AfterMatch Project $75K INVESTED IN 2024 RESEARCH THAT MATTERS Brain Recovery and Preparedness in Adolescents using Imaging after a Rugby season (Brain-RePAIR) update by Josh McGeown, PhD., Senior Research Fellow, Honorary Research Fellow, Anatomy & Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Neurological Foundation First Fellowship In March 2025, the BrainRePAIR study entered its second year. This project is aimed at making the game safer by using instrumented mouthguards and advanced brain scans to study how repetitive head impacts and concussion affect brain health, but more importantly, by understanding how the brain recovers after injury. This project is jointly supported by New Zealand Rugby Foundation, Hugh Green Foundation, and Neurological Foundation and is a collaborative effort between scientists at Mātai Medical Research Institute, University of Auckland, University of Otago, and Auckland University of Technology. So far, over 50 First XV rugby players and their whānau have partnered with the Research Team to discover how to make the game safer for current and future generations. A major goal of the study is to identify how long the stand-down times and the off-season should be to allow the brain to heal after a concussion or season of rugby, respectively. 40 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
RESEARCH THAT MATTERS Kumanu Tāngata: The AfterMatch Project by Drs Steph D’Souza & Ken Quarrie (on behalf of the Project Team), Co-Principal Investigators Rugby is more than just a game; it’s a lifelong passion for many. But what happens after the final whistle? The Kumanu Tāngata Project is dedicated to understanding the longterm health of former rugby players and ensuring that the game continues to evolve with player welfare at its core. MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN 2024 This year has been a big one for our research, with important milestones in our understanding of rugby’s long-term health impacts: • Study Protocol Published – Our study protocol was published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, outlining the rigorous approach we take to investigating player health. • Neurodegenerative Disease Research Under Review – A key paper examining neurodegenerative disease Any neurodegenerative disease Alzheimer’s Other dementias Parkinson’s Motor neurone disease Deaths (primary cause) Deaths (contributory cause) 0 5 10 15 Expected number given rate in general population Attributable to being in the rugby group 20 Average cases per year in the rugby cohort By the end of the study, around 24 former players per year were being diagnosed with or dying from a neurodegenerative disease—about five more cases per year than expected. 25 30 We are grateful for the ongoing support of our partners and the wider rugby community. The funding from the NZ Rugby Foundation and World Rugby has been crucial for allowing this research to be done to keep player wellbeing at the forefront of the game. outcomes in former first-class male rugby players is currently under review with Sports Medicine. Findings show a small increase in risk compared to the general population. • Mortality Trends Among Former Players – We found that former rugby players generally had lower death rates than the general population until they reached 80 years of age. However, after 80, they had higher rates of death from neurodegenerative diseases. Players also had lower rates of death from respiratory and metabolic diseases compared to males of the same age and ethnic origin from the general population. Overall, players had about 8.4 months less premature mortality per player (on average) across all causes of death; deaths from neurodegenerative causes were responsible for about 2 weeks increased premature mortality per player (on average). • Differences by Playing Position and Career Length – Our research showed that player position and rugby exposure influence long-term health outcomes: – Forwards had higher rates of deaths related to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. – Backs had a higher rate of alcohol-related deaths than forwards – Longer rugby careers were linked to increased neurodegenerative disease deaths but lower respiratory disease deaths. • Global Recognition of Our Findings – We presented these findings at the International Population Data Linkage Network Conference in Chicago in September 2024, bringing international attention to rugby’s long-term health impacts. LOOKING AHEAD As we continue to build on these insights, our focus remains on understanding how changes in the game—especially since the shift to professionalism in 1996— might influence health outcomes for today’s players. By working together with players, coaches, and medical professionals, we aim to ensure that rugby remains a safe and sustainable sport for future generations. NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 41
Very Injured Players (VIPs) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Alan Pullar Bob Porter Christopher Moran Bob Waldron Peter O’Flaherty Richard Smaill Tony Taylor Muir Templeton James Campbell Grant Sharman Richard Welsh 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Philip D Wells Richard Hill Philip Spring Chris Riddell Trevor Clarke Stelios Meimaris Peter van Raalte Phil Rangitaawa Leonard Gee Geoff Cochrane David Wear Ross Ormsby James Algie John Moananui Clayton Stretch Bob Symon Donald Corkill Ray Newland John Kaye Stuart Meek Grant Buchanan Alan Boyd Keith Jarvie Paul Johnston 1966 † 1972 † 1973 † 1973 1973 † 1974 † 1974 † 1975 † 1975 † 1977 1979 12 John Mafileo (2nd injury 2017) 1979 13 1979 1979 1979 1980 † 1980 1980 1980 † 1982 † 1982 1983 † 1983 1984 1984 1984 † 1984 † 1984 1984 1984 1984 † 1985 1985 1986 † 1986 1986 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 Ross Cameron Phillip Wharekawa Mike Girling-Butcher Charlton Harris Kerrin Tilley Robert Smith Gary McMurry Mark Scherer Iain Scott Neil Cudby Steve Bailey David Tai Mark Herron Gordon Gunther Gerry Tinker Ronald Wilson Brad Hayward Dougal Scott Wayne Forrest Dion Seeling Tim Williams Jason Solomon Craig Tibbitts Phillip Booth Wayne Chapman Matthew Muller Ben Larson Kerry Southee Dan Buckingham Perenise Vaili Dayna Tiwha Nick Chisholm Sid Ranapia Kendall Akhurst Kendrick Murray Vaughan de Groen 42 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 1987 † 1987 1988 † 1988 1988 1989 1989 1989 1989 1990 1991 1991 † 1992 1992 1992 1993 1994 1994 1995 1995 1995 1996 1996 1996 1996 1998 1999 1999 1999 2000 2000 2000 2000 † 2000 2003 2003
Very Injured Players (VIPs) 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 Nuuolaii Kepaoa Anaru Ese Malala Gaono Scott McEwan David Thorne Jack McSweeny Nui Bartlett Alex Dalzell Fetu Ese Tainafi Lefono Samuel Fanau Alan Mita Hone Herewini Bryce Clapham Darryl Sabin James Gourlay Robert Hewitt Penisimani Moimoi Molimau Leeti Joshua Maguire Scott Martlew Nicholas Blincoe Raana Tangaere Austen Haig Joel Tibble Tausili Tuaimalo Cody Everson Seti Tafua Nat Manville Sam Lawrence Lui Te’o Keenan Alexander Braden Coates Ryan Roughan Jacob Fifita-Tovo John Cocker (2013) 2003 2004 2005 2005 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2007 2008 2008 2008 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2010 2010 2010 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2012 2014 2015 2016 2016 2017 2018 2018 2018 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 Ta’u Latu Sione Fifita (2011) Jonathan Maxwell (2002) Michael Fatialofa (MoH) Alan Gardiner Wayne Harris Tutekawa Wyllie (1982) Josh Freer Unaloto Tanginoa (MoH) Semisi Naiqara Deceased on field that we know of Joeli Fifita Pita Fuafiva Tino Amote Joeli Vave Cory Davis Robert Hickland Willie Halaifonua Jordon Kemp Daniel Baldwin Geoff Toni (cardiac event) 2017 2019 † 2019 2020 2021 2021 2022 2022 2023 2024 2000 † 2001 † 2002 † 2002 † 2005 † 2008 † 2013 † 2014 † 2017 † 2017 † Bevan Moody (cardiac event) 2017 † Lelea Potaufa (cardiac event) 2020 † Murphy Johnston (cardiac event) 2021 † Toko Haupuku (cardiac event) 2021 † Mark Weedon (cardiac event) 2021 † Robert Tuari (cardiac event) Cory Heather Jade Halkett (cardiac event) 2022 † 2024 † 2024 † Elikena ‘Ali’ Prescott (cardiac event) 2024 † Brook Wilson (cardiac event) 2024 † Footnote: When placed immediately before or after a person’s name, the cross indicates that the person is deceased † NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 43
The Brain Health and Concussion plan New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Rugby Foundation and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association are working together to establish best practice in managing the risks of concussion in rugby. Like any contact sport, rugby carries risk of injury, but we believe our game can be played safely without compromising the competitive element or spectacle. The Brain Health and Concussion plan sets out our collective actions to keep every player as safe as possible from the risks of concussion. • Our three organisations (NZR, NZRPA and NZRF) are working together to ensure we are taking a ‘whole-ofgame’ approach to ensure we are doing everything we can to keep every player as safe as possible from the risks of concussion. • The welfare of our players is collectively our top priority, and this is why it made sense for our organisations to work in partnership on this. • This plan, which will be updated annually, demonstrates our ongoing commitment to transparency and openness. • Our focus in this plan is on five key areas: Injury Prevention, Injury Management, education and training, research and monitoring, and Communication. • We aim to continue ensuring that players, referees, coaches, parents, clubs, and fans have access to the information they need to support player welfare at every level. OUR PLAN The plan is set out across the five key focus areas of the Brain Health and Concussion ~Risk Management Framework. Underpinning these is the commitment that all initiatives will consider the differing needs of our participants to ensure they are culturally safe. Within each focus area lies its goal, a description and a table outlining the planned initiatives. Initiatives will fall into one of two categories; a)proven initiatives we have established and will continue to deliver, or b) new or improved initiatives designed to further bolster our support of brain health and concussion risk management. This work is informed by a range of policies, laws and regulations which have been established to safeguard players within the game. MORE INFORMATION • There is a whole section on the NZR website and which shares all information for participants, and this will continue to have education campaigns throughout our community rugby season. • Professional players can reach out to their PUs, Super Clubs, NZR or the NZRPA for more information. New Zealand Rugby unveils comprehensive Concussion Risk Management Plan https://www.rugbyfoundation.nz/ newsarticle/151470?newsfeedId= 1735001newsarticle/151470? newsfeedId=1735001 INJURY PREVENTION INJURY MANAGEMENT EDUCATION & TRAINING RESEARCH & MONITORING COMMUNICATION Collaboration with the Auckland University Brain Bank, The Neurological Foundation, NZR, NZRPA and NZRF. 44 ANNUAL REPORT 2024
VIP Michael Fatialofa, Tatiana and Tommy. VIP Keenan Alexander. Our Team Lisa Kingi-Bon Ben Sturmfels Kaitlin Rose Valasi Eves Jo Thomas Kelly Rarere NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 45
Created in 2022, the Pettigrew Giving Circle pools the resources of significant individual and corporate donors to provide greater immediate impact to our communities. The New Zealand Rugby Foundation would like to acknowledge the support of the following: Wayne EDWARDS Julian ARNHOLD Brady & Kylee WILLIAMS Craig BURGESS MACRENNIE COMMERICAL CONSTRUCTION LTD Andrew HORGAN Bryce CALDWELL Willy & Rick JOHNSTON Nick TONGUE Gavin & Amanda NELL Pat COLL Thanks Acknowledging these individuals who gave up their time to assist in various generous ways either on stage or as elements of auction items: Buck Anderson John Bowring Dominion Breweries David Campese Monalisa Codling Alternative Commentary Collective Mike Copeland Ron Cribb Andy Dalton Ian Foster Gretchen Hawkesby Sir Graham Henry Raewyn Lady Henry Sir John Key 46 ANNUAL REPORT 2024 David Kirk Laura McGoldrick The Rock Morning Rumble Brian O’Driscoll Ross Ormsby Centurions RFC Harlequins RFC NZ Barbarians RFC Massey RFC Whanganui RFU Blues Rugby Chiefs Rugby Hurricanes Rugby Crusaders Rugby Highlanders Rugby Moana Pasifika Rugby Drua Rugby Anna Richards Charlie Riechelmann Scott Robertson Melodie Robinson Eric Rush Jason Ryan Hon David Seymour Scotty Stevenson Bob Symon Gail Trapp Maurice Trapp Tana Umaga Alan Whetton Sir Bryan Williams Lesley Lady Williams Jeff Wilson
Official Associates Partners, Funders and Sponsors in Kind www.facebook.com/NZRugbyFoundation www.instagram.com/nz_rugby_foundation www.rugbyfoundation.nz NEW ZEALAND RUGBY FOUNDATION INC. CC42547 47
Support Champion Collaborate We stand in service to all registered rugby players in New Zealand. In 2024, there were 155,568 registered players. This covers 26 Provincial Unions, which include 480 Clubs and 296 Secondary Schools across the motu. Since records began in 1966, we have 118 VIPs in our NZ Rugby Foundation family. Commitment Courage Compassion Connection
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