Story: Military and sport

New Zealand Divisional rugby team, Paris, 1918

This silent film shows a game betweent the New Zealand Divisional rugby team and a French Army team in Paris on 17 February 1918. It begins with the New Zealanders performing the pre-game haka and the French team coming on to the field. While the French were regarded by many commentators to have played the better rugby, the New Zealanders won 5–3. The American referee became confused over timing. After a first 'half' of 30 minutes he allowed the game to run for 45 minutes in the second.

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New Zealand Film Archive Ngā Kaitiaki O Ngā Taonga Whitiāhua
Reference: New Zealand Divisional Rugby Team 1918

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How to cite this page:

Ian McGibbon, 'Military and sport - South African and First World wars', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/node/218862 (accessed 13 May 2024)

Story by Ian McGibbon, published 5 Sep 2013