Story: Māori rugby – whutupaoro

Rugby World Cup 2021

New Zealand women's rugby player Ruby Tui trying to evade Australian opponents during 2021 rugby world cup game.

Black Ferns right wing Ruby Tui fends off Wallaroos lock Grace Kemp during New Zealand’s 41–17 victory over Australia at Eden Park, Auckland on the opening day of Rugby World Cup 2021, which was delayed until 2022 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Black Ferns left wing Portia Woodman (Ngāpuhi) and her marker Bienne Terita (Ngāi Tūhoe) await developments.

New Zealand edged favourites England 34–31 in the final at a packed Eden Park. The Black Ferns squad included many Māori players and the tournament embraced Māori cultural elements, with thousands of spectators twirling simple poi made of fabric.

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How to cite this page:

Malcolm Mulholland, 'Māori rugby – whutupaoro - Women in rugby union and league', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/47774/rugby-world-cup-2021 (accessed 30 March 2024)

Story by Malcolm Mulholland, published 5 Sep 2013, updated 1 Jan 2015