As the weekend approaches, here are a few updates to help you plan your visit and make the most of the celebrations.
This update includes key programme details, transport, merchandise and booklet information.
We look forward to welcoming you as we celebrate 150 Years of Rakaia Rugby – Past, Present and Future.
Please feel free to contact us if you require any further information.
Mark Hanrahan (Jubilee Chairman) Warren Jones (Rakaia Rugby President)
Jubilee Committee
Jo Burrows | Willa Nicol | Julie Boag | David Boag | Bob O’Brien | Grant Perry
WEEKEND AT A GLANCE - All events will be held at the Rakaia Domain, centered around our new clubrooms — a proud part of this milestone celebration.
Friday 17 April - Welcome & Reunion Evening – from 5:30pm
Saturday 18 April - Club Day & Vicennial Photos – from 10:00am
Saturday 18 April - Jubilee Banquet – from 5:30pm
Sunday 19 April – Farewell and Complimentary Brunch from 11am
FRIDAY – WELCOME & REUNION EVENING
Smart casual | Bar open from 5:30pm | Clubrooms | Official Welcome – 7:00pm |Supper served
A relaxed evening to reconnect, collect your registration pack and lanyard, and catch up with old friends.
SATURDAY – CLUB DAY
From 10:00am | Rakaia Domain
Vicennial (20-year) team photos (times to be advised)
Rugby across all grades throughout the day (draws to be confirmed)
Hoodfields Contracting Rakaia vs Methven – 2:00pm (Watters Cup Round)
SATURDAY NIGHT – JUBILEE BANQUET
Semi-formal | From 5:30pm | Jubilee Marquee | Banquet begins at 6:30pm
Join us for a special evening celebrating our club’s past, present, and future — an opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and enjoy a memorable night together.
Lana Cochrane Searle – MC & Host for the Jubilee Banquet, and proud member of our women’s team, bringing energy, connection, and true club spirit to the evening.
Guest Speaker – David Kirk MBE - Former All Blacks captain and current NZ Rugby Chairman.
Special Guest – Bill Bush MNZM - Will lead a traditional pōwhiri to formally open the evening.
Jubilee Players’ Jerseys - Don’t miss the live auction on the night.
Transport
Transport is being arranged for Saturday evening. If you require transport for the Banquet, please reply with your preference:
• Ashburton Hotel (one pick-up at 5:00pm)
• Return options – 10:15pm or 11:30pm
• Rakaia area pick-up/drop-off
Limited seats are available — please book early to avoid disappointment. Transport bookings close 7 April.
SUNDAY – FAREWELL MORNING & COMPLIMENTARY BRUNCH
From 11:00am | Domain & Clubrooms
• JAB ball skills session with senior players
A relaxed opportunity for a final catch-up before farewells.
JUBILEE MERCHANDISE
Our 150th Jubilee Supporters Rugby Jersey is available now via our website: www.rakaiarugby.co.nz
Also available on the website:
• Jubilee Tie • Polo Shirts • Hoodies • Puffer Vests • Caps, Beanies & Bucket Hats
Sizes: Kids, Men’s & Women’s
Limited stock on selected items — order early to avoid missing out.
150th JUBILEE COMMEMORATIVE BOOKLET
Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Rakaia Rugby history.
Limited numbers available — first in, first served. Available over the weekend – $20
REMINDER – REGISTRATIONS CLOSE 31 MARCH