The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) voted in favour of a new future today when members overwhelmingly supported game-wide constitutional reforms proposed by government agency Sparc.
At a special general meeting in Auckland, NZRL members fully endorsed findings and recommendations by an independent review committee released last month in its
report "Rugby League - Contributing to New Zealand's Future".
"This is a momentous day for the game in New Zealand," NZRL chairman Ray Haffenden said.
"To survive and grow it was critical for our members to endorse SPARC's proposals but it is still a brave decision to take the game in this new direction.
"Our problems are well-known and there's much work to be done to be able to move forward with confidence but by voting in favour of the recommendations, our members have taken the most important step.
"We now look forward to working with SPARC for the betterment of rugby league in New Zealand."
As a result of adopting the new constitution, the existing board will continue to hold office until it is dissolved in late May for the election of a new board.
To assist with costs involved in implementing the proposals, Sparc will invest $450,000 in the transitional phase over the next six months before considering ongoing financial assistance.
Sparc chief executive Peter Miskimmin welcomed today's decision by NZRL membership to adopt the 10 recommendations outlined in the independent review.
"Rugby league is part of the sporting fabric of New Zealand and is simply too important to be allowed to fail," Miskimmin said.
"NZRL has taken up the challenge to implement a plan to ensure the sustainability and future of the game and SPARC is delighted to support that process.
"I applaud Chairman Ray Haffenden and the current board for their leadership and courage in making the right decisions.
"The hard work is only beginning and challenges lie ahead."
Today's meeting in Auckland also confirmed the two rugby league representatives on a four-man appointment committee. Peter Kerridge of West Coast and Cameron McGregor of Auckland join Sparc appointees Sir John Wells and Sir John Anderson.
Also held today was the NZRL's annual general meeting, a highlight of which was the election of Howie Tamati as a life member.
A Kiwi from 1979-85 and then Kiwis coach in 1992-93, Tamati has had a long involvement in rugby league at all levels.
He is the NZRL's current convener of selectors and chairman of the NZRL while also the chief executive of Sport Taranaki.
- NZPA
