Fiji is the first team to arrive in New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup, but their union chairman is staying at home. Photo / Getty Images
New Zealand has refused to grant a visa to Fiji Rugby Union chairman Colonel Mosese Tokoitoga, barring him from attending the Rugby World Cup which starts in 12 days.
Fiji became the first team to arrive for the tournament when it touched down in Auckland on Monday.
But Tikoitoga was
not be able to accompany the team at the tournament because he is banned from New Zealand under travel sanctions targeting members of Fiji's military regime.
New Zealand foreign minister Murray McCully said Tikoitoga's application for a visa was declined as soon as it was received last week. An application from another Fiji rugby official who also has military ties was also refused.
McCully said "the sanctions are there for a reason and banned means banned."
