Kōrero: Rugby union

The Auckland football club was founded in 1870 and adopted the rugby rules in 1873. Other clubs developed there, and in 1875 they combined to form an Auckland team, which toured Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Nelson and New Plymouth. These inter-regional games created considerable interest and encouraged spectators to come along and cheer for their local team. They were important in spreading a following for rugby. Such tours were only possible because rugby was initially played by the elite, who had the time and money to be able to tour.