History

The New Zealand Rugby Players Association Incorporated, ("the NZRPA") was founded by New Zealand's professional players in July 1999.

The NZRPA was initiated by the players and the NZRU in response to the growing demand from players to be represented by their own independentbody on issues that concerned both themselves and the game.

The NZRPA has been incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908. The organisation is an independent body with its own constitution.

The first NZRPA Board was elected in October 1999 and consisted of Player Representatives Simon Culhane, Chris England, Norm Hewitt, Todd Miller and Robin Brooke and Independents Sara Tetro and David Kirk (President).

In November 1999 Rob Nichol was appointed as Executive Manager and tasked with achieving the following:

• Securing Membership of New Zealand Super 12 and NZ7's players;
• Development of a Business Plan; and
• Securing Funding for ongoing operations.

Now, in 2010, the NZRPA has grown into an organisation providing a raft of Player Services. Through the NZRPA Alumni programme its membership has been expanded to include overseased-based and past professional rugby players as well as current players. The NZRPA continues to provide a wide range of opportunities and support for it members.