Monday 16th January
You will all be aware of recent developments in relation to Covid-19 and the indefinite suspension of Super Rugby over the weekend.
Given that this is a constantly moving situation, we will be continuing to monitor daily and provide updates. We will also be further guided by Government advice on mass gatherings which is due on Tuesday.
In terms of our local club rugby, at this stage the Premier Grade will start this Saturday, March 21st as scheduled, we advise this after speaking with New Zealand Rugby this morning. The Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union Board of Directors, as with the NZR, continue to be guided by Government and Ministry of Health (MoH) advice.
As per MoH advice, it is important to emphasise maintaining good hygiene practices (see attached poster), including: regular hand washing; covering coughs and sneezes; refrain from handshakes, high fives or hongi, and avoid close physical contact where possible.
We understand the irony of advising people to avoid close physical contact in a game like rugby that is full of scrums, lineouts, rucks, mauls and other close contact areas, however that is the MoH advice to observe where possible.
It is also very important to remind players, coaches and other club personnel to stay away from trainings, club meetings and activities should people be feeling unwell.
The health and safety of all within our communities is paramount; the Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union is maintaining close contact with NZR and MoH advice and will update again once we have any further information to hand.
Kind Regards, Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union