The All Blacks want to conquer new markets and could soon play tests in the United States and mainland Asia.
The New Zealand Rugby Union has a host of income-generating ideas on the table. This year the All Blacks played England at Twickenham for a fee. Normally the
host union keeps all the gate receipts but England agreed to pay the All Blacks about $3 million, knowing the stadium would sell out.
It's possible that tests under commercial arrangements will soon be played in countries such as the US and Japan. Other teams like the Junior All Blacks and Maori could also play in non-rugby countries to boost awareness and open merchan-dising opportunities.
NZRU chief executive Chris Moller said: "A whole range of commercial opportunities are being considered. Everything is on the table."
The NZRU wants money to reduce its dependence on broadcast and sponsorship contracts, about half its $145 million turnover.
- HERALD ON SUNDAY
