Podcasts Culture Roadside Stories Nelson, birthplace of New Zealand rugby

Nelson, birthplace of New Zealand rugby

Published: Aug. 30, 2011, 5 a.m.

New Zealand's first rugby match was held in Nelson in 1870, at the suggestion of Charles Monro, who had played the game as a student in England. Rugby spread rapidly throughout the country, and Māori were quick to embrace the game. It was especially popular in small rural towns.