Northland Rugby Union

Letter of Public Support

The Northland Rugby Union acknowledges and thanks all those who offered their unconditional support during the past six weeks. When the NZRU recommendation came out to axe Northland from the Air New Zealand Cup we made a commitment to stand strong. That positive and enthusiastic support the NRU received was pivotal in ensuring we fought back against many believed was a done deal.

But we must make special mention of those who made our job easier

· Our players, coaching staff and the workers of the NRU - we salute you for remaining totally focused on the job in front of you. Your professionalism will not be forgotten.

· Our local councils represented by local mayors Stan Semenoff, Wayne Brown and Neil Tiller

· Our Northland Members of Parliament - Shane Jones, John Carter, Hone Harawira and Phil Heatley

· Northland Rugby Union Major Sponsor; United Carriers and Greg Miller of Toll Holdings who spoke at the NZRU hearing. We must also acknowledge the NRU other major sponsors - Hansen Products (NZ) Ltd, Lion Breweries, Canterbury of New Zealand and Oceanz Seafood

· Our other loyal sponsors including; ASB Bank, Fonterra, PGG Wrightson , Rynoz, Fell Engineering , Barfoot and Thompson, Thomson Wilson, Northland Toyota and First Mobile

· The Northern Advocate and RadioWorks / More FM for the “Save the Taniwha / Stop the Drop” media campaign. We must also acknowledge the support of the Radio Network

· Graeme Mathias and Grant Currie of Thomson Wilson, who assisted in raising funds by the public and businesses

· Team Tait, First Mobile and Pit Stop for their sponsorship of the “Save the Taniwha” text campaign, along with everyone who donated $5 towards this campaign

· The assistance of the New Zealand Maori Rugby Board, the Northland Vikings and the Northland District Health Board

· The fans that sent letters / E-mails of support or signed petitions

· The support of the six Northland Sub Unions

· Those who assisted in preparing a compelling submission to the NZRU board ably led by Wayne Peters and the NZRU board and staff for listening and now acting in the best interests of rugby

· Lastly but not least, OUR FANS that have stayed loyal throughout this time of uncertainty.

But we must remember we can no longer take for granted that Northland should remain in the top level of rugby in New Zealand. We have been given an opportunity to show we can play an integral part in the future of the game here; and let’s remember it is a game for all New Zealand. We must continue to work together and look forward to 2009 and beyond. That will require your continued support.

Thank you.

Regards,

Andrew Golightly, Acting Chairman, Northland Rugby Union (Inc)