TONY HARGOOD Tony Hargood, a long-serving figure in provincial rugby, is currently walking the length of New Zealand in support of the New Zealand Rugby Foundation. His journey “A Brief Walk Through the History of New Zealand Rugby” is as much about connection as it is about fundraising. As he travels the country, Tony is visiting each of the 26 provincial unions, stopping at their home grounds to kick a goal and spend time with the people who bring the game to life in their communities. Along the way, he is capturing stories that reflect the depth, character, and quiet strength of rugby across Aotearoa. There is a simplicity and authenticity to the initiative that resonates. Match balls collected at each stop will be auctioned to support the Foundation. Still, the real impact lies in the conversations, the visibility, and the reminder that behind every jersey is a lifelong connection to the game. In many ways, this is Tony’s way of giving back – a final chapter in a lifetime in rugby – while reinforcing something we see every day: that when serious injury occurs, the rugby community stands beside its own for the long haul. To date, Tony has walked 1916 km. Go figure. Thank you, Big T. Big T far right, pictured with VIP Neil Cudby, Ed Cocker, Willie Rickland, and Cory Sweeney, NZ Women’s 7’s coach. Big T with Chair Andrew Golightly. Ryan Roughan and John Cocker ‘welcome’ Teilah Ferguson to the ‘eye club’. VIP Brad Heyward with the one and only Siya Kolisi. 20 ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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