A group pushing for a 20th NRL team in Christchurch told the Government its support was vital to securing the franchise, according to exclusive documents released under the Official Information Act. Southern Sporting Limited (SSL) first approached South Island Minister James Meager in September of last year, arguing that central government backing is necessary to match heavily funded bids from regions like Western Australia.
Government Involvement and Bid Documents
According to documents cited by Newstalk ZB, SSL told officials that central Government support was more than useful and vital to give Christchurch the best chance of securing an NRL license. SSL president Frank Endacott confirmed the group had held positive talks with the Government, though he declined to detail the discussions while the Christchurch City Council fronts the South Island bid.
The documents show that SSL asked Government officials to stay across the council’s work and offer whatever support was needed. Endacott stated that SSL had been working on the bid for more than two years alongside a team including Waikato Rugby Union board president Coal Groves, Canterbury Rugby League board member Darren Littlewood, former chief executive Duane Fyfe, and former Labour MP Poto Williams.
Ministerial Stances and Trans-Tasman Sport Policy
South Island Minister James Meager expressed support in principle for Christchurch receiving an NRL franchise, noting in a statement that a South Island team could deliver economic, sporting, tourism, recreational, and social benefits. However, Meager clarified that government financial support had not been discussed and that any conversations about funding would be appropriately held with Sport and Recreation Minister Mark Mitchell and Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis, as reported by Newstalk ZB.
Minister Mark Mitchell stated that he supported plans to advance New Zealand’s sporting interests, but he clarified that the Government was not involved in any NRL bid. Additionally, a report created for Meager by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) noted that the Government has traditionally maintained very little involvement in professional trans-Tasman sport and has avoided making direct investments in teams.
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SSL contended that Christchurch might require government assistance on a scale similar to that of the Perth Bears, whose entry into the NRL was backed by tens of millions of dollars from the Western Australian Government.
Comparing Funding Models: Perth vs. New Zealand Sport Policy
SSL pointed to Perth and Papua New Guinea as examples of the NRL increasingly favoring government-backed models. In contrast, Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa advised that it does not get involved in commercial organisations making bids to enter professional sporting competitions. Sport New Zealand also recommended that any bid should be advanced in close discussion with the New Zealand Rugby League.
Despite differing views on government investment, Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger told Newstalk ZB that the council is simply facilitating discussions to ensure the city is well-prepared if the opportunity arises. Mauger noted that the council is getting all ducks in a row and putting as much information forward as possible.
Next Steps and the NRL Decision Timeline
Endacott confirmed that the proposal is fully prepared and will be presented to the NRL shortly by the council. The group aims to deliver a franchise that keeps local talent close to home.
“If you look back over the decades, there’s been literally hundreds of players coming from Christchurch and the South Island, going to Australia to play in the NRL,” Endacott said, according to Newstalk ZB. “Where we could offer the new franchise here for them to play here and stay at home with their families.”
Endacott expects a decision on the 20th team before Christmas, keeping pace with the NRL’s stated ambition for the franchise to begin in 2029. The NRL retains the final say on whether another franchise enters the competition, alongside competing bids such as the Southern Orcas and interest from Hamilton or Ipswich in Queensland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the Christchurch NRL bid group?
Southern Sporting Limited (SSL), including Frank Endacott, is fronting the push alongside the Christchurch City Council.
Has the New Zealand Government committed financial support?
No. According to documents and statements from ministers like Mark Mitchell and James Meager, the Government is not involved in any NRL bid and does not typically make direct investments in professional trans-Tasman sports teams.
When will a decision on the 20th NRL team be made?
SSL president Frank Endacott expects the NRL to make a decision before Christmas, with the franchise slated to begin in 2029.
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