Pétra Allen succeeds Jeff Phillips as Whanganui Rugby Football Union chair

Whanganui Rugby has announced changes to its board, including new chair Pétra Allen (centre) and new board members Jason Caskey (left) and Aaron Currie. Photo / Kate Belsham, Ivy Digital

Lawyer Pétra Allen is the new chair of the Whanganui Rugby Football Union board.

The appointment follows the retirement of long-serving chairman Jeff Phillips who dedicated 10 years to the role.

Allen, a director at law firm Treadwell Gordon, has extensive governance experience. It includes five years as a member of the Whanganui Rugby board which the union said positioned her well to take over the role.

“I’m honoured to step into the role of chair and to serve alongside such passionate and capable individuals,” Allen said.

“Whanganui Rugby has a proud history and an incredibly promising future - I’m looking forward to helping shape its continued success both on and off the field.”

Joining Allen are new board members Jason Caskey and Aaron Currie who have extensive backgrounds in the region’s rugby scene, business acumen and strong local connections.

Caskey, a former Whanganui representative coach, said his many years of involvement as a player and coach had created a strong dedication to the union.

“When the opportunity arose to serve on the board, I was eager to support the union in a new capacity,” Caskey said.

“I am extremely passionate about seeing Whanganui rugby thrive for all men, women, and children.”

Currie, who is general manager of Bullocks Group - a Whanganui Rugby sponsor, said he had witnessed the passion the community had for the game of rugby, encouraging him to be involved.

“I saw it as a fantastic way to give back to the community I am deeply connected to through my work,” Currie said.

“As a passionate rugby supporter, I am excited to support the men and women who have the privilege to play for the Whanganui Rugby Football Union.”

Whanganui Rugby said the organisation was looking forward to the strategic leadership and fresh perspectives the three new appointments would bring in pursuit of its long-term goals.