North Harbour Rugby's 'Rusty Rips', an adult non-contact module has quickly become a community favourite, thanks to the support of The Merchant Pub. Starting in 2023 with six teams, the event has grown significantly, with ten teams participating at the start of the 2024 season, ending with eight teams.

This growth highlights the increasing popularity and success of the module.

North Harbour Rugby Referee Manager Ryan Nixon (also Commissioner of Rusty Rips) says that “The purpose of Rusty Rips is to give an opportunity to ex-players or players who have other weekend commitments, or players who want a social offering with no-contact that is fun, social, and low key”.

One of the most exciting developments in 2024 was the addition of an all-women's team, along with several mixed-gender teams. This move has made the module more inclusive and welcoming to everyone. Matches were held at various clubs that supported the event by entering teams, including East Coast Bays, Silverdale, and Northcote. Sharing venues not only spread the excitement but also brought different communities together.

“I can see Rusty Rips growing to involve more clubs, more teams, more age grades, more females, more fields and more clubs hosting – bigger, better, rustier” – Nixon.

With plans already in place for 2025, 'Rusty Rips' is set to keep growing and providing a fun, non-contact rugby experience for everyone involved.

Article added: Tuesday 02 July 2024