Ever wondered how player benefits come about or why certain rules are put in place for rugby competitions?
These are only a couple of areas we discuss, influence and negotiate as an organisation. This is done through the Representation team at RPA who are responsible for acting on behalf of all professional rugby players in New Zealand.
This means we listen to players and share their thoughts when it comes to issues of importance to them and the game. We represent them and their collective needs when negotiating with New Zealand Rugby, Super Rugby Clubs, and Provincial Unions because we want them to have the best possible working environment. Our goal is to make sure that what players need is provided by the people who employ them.
Collective Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding
One of the key ways we do this is through negotiating the players’ Collective Agreement and respective Memorandum of Understandings with New Zealand Rugby.
These agreements cover all professional players in New Zealand, whether they’re playing 15s or 7s at a national, Super Rugby or provincial level. The Collective Agreement is usually negotiated every three years, and at every negotiation, we work hard to get the fairest deal for all professional rugby players.
Some of the things the Collective Agreement covers are the agreed rules about:
On the international stage
It's also important to us that New Zealand players are well represented on the international stage, which is why NZRPA is a member of the New Zealand Athletes Federation, International Rugby Players and the World Players Association. These organisations have similar purposes as NZRPA but at an international level.
Have an idea, issue or question?
To get in touch with RPA's representation team, call 0800 PLAYER or contact James Parsons, Representation Lead, on james.parsons@nzrpa.co.nz
Questions relating to women's rugby can be directed to James or Ashley Stanley, Player Representation Advisor, on ashley.stanley@nzrpa.co.nz
