Auckland Rugby is proud to announce the launch of the second round of the Auckland Rugby Contestable Fund, continuing its commitment to strengthening rugby participation, facilities and sustainability across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Over the past three years, Auckland Rugby has invested more than $550,000 directly into community rugby programmes, facility upgrades, club development and school engagement. The Contestable Fund, open exclusively to ARU member clubs and partner schools, supports projects that create meaningful impact for players, volunteers, and the wider community.
In the first funding rounds, Auckland Rugby received 80 applications, ultimately investing in 15 clubs and 23 schools and helping bring to life:
- 37 new or enhanced rugby programmes
- 7 new secondary school teams
- 6 new club staff roles supporting volunteer capability
- 13 facility upgrades improving experiences for members
Auckland Rugby CEO Jarrod Bear says the Contestable Fund is about putting resources where they matter most. “Our clubs and schools are the heartbeat of rugby in Auckland. This fund is our way of backing the people who are doing incredible work every day to grow the game. The impact so far has been outstanding, and we’re excited to help even more communities take the next step."
Real stories from the 2022–2025 funding cycle demonstrate how meaningful the support has been:
- Waitemata Rugby Club upgraded their training areas and female changing rooms, revitalising their senior women’s programme and creating a more welcoming environment.
- Te Papapa Onehunga Rugby & Sports Club used funding to employ a General Manager, strengthening governance, capability and long-term sustainability.
- Botany Downs Secondary College was able to purchase purpose-built girls’ uniforms, allowing their female players to proudly represent their school in a way they never could before.
These are just some examples of how investment has helped unlock participation, create inclusive spaces and build stronger rugby pathways across Auckland.
Applications for the next round of the Auckland Rugby Contestable Fund has now opened, inviting clubs and schools to submit projects that:
- Grow participation
- Enhance facilities and environments
- Strengthen operational or volunteer capability
- Support long-term sustainability and community impact
Auckland Rugby encourages all eligible clubs and schools to apply.
