Whanganui Rugby Football Union chief executive Bridget Belsham to end 11-year tenure

Bridget Belsham is moving to a new role with Camp Quality New Zealand.

The Whanganui Rugby Football Union’s chief executive Bridget Belsham will step down after an 11-year tenure.

She was the first female to hold the role since the union was established in 1888.

Chair Pétra Allen said Belsham’s service, impacting both the game and business of rugby, was “impeccable”.

“Her leadership, integrity and commitment have set a standard that is deeply respected across our community and throughout the national rugby network,” Allen said.

“While we are incredibly sad to see her go, Bridget leaves with the full appreciation and support of the board as she takes up what is an incredible opportunity.”

During Belsham’s first three years as chief executive (2015-2017), the Whanganui men’s side won the Heartland Championship’s Meads Cup three times in a row.

Some of Belsham’s highlights include the Longrun Spouting Whanganui Women’s team becoming back-to-back champions, establishing the Community Charitable Trust, buying the rugby union’s Maria Place building in 2018 and the name change from Wanganui to Whanganui.

“Most of all, it’s been about the people – the staff, players, coaches and volunteers – seeing them grow and succeed has been hugely rewarding”, she said.

The growth in women’s rugby was also a major highlight.

“There’s also been a real shift in mindset – women’s rugby is now recognised as a vital and valued part of the game, and our clubs have really embraced that,” Belsham said.

Lesley McKenzie, who went on to coach the Japanese women’s team, and former Black Fern Sosoli Talawadua were key contributors to this growth, she said.

Building a financially sustainable union was a key focus for Belsham.

“It’s about ensuring rugby in Whanganui is not just thriving today but set up for long-term success – both on and off the field.”

She said the next chief executive needed to value people and ensure rugby remained accessible and inclusive for all.

“I would love to see someone who is genuinely passionate about community rugby and understands the unique role a Heartland union plays in New Zealand rugby.”

Belsham’s new role is general manager at Camp Quality New Zealand, which provides camps and recreational programmes for children living with cancer.

“Having volunteered with Camp Quality over the past two years, I’ve seen first-hand the incredible impact it has on children living with cancer and their whānau.

“I’m excited to step into this role – it’s an organisation with a powerful purpose.”

She said she was “not going anywhere” and would remain a familiar face on local rugby game sidelines.

The board is starting its recruitment process for a new chief executive, with Belsham eventually transitioning out of the role.