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For a comprehensive coverage of the history of individual sports in New Zealand we recommend the Te Ara sports theme.
Regional rugby

Regional rugby

Brief histories of each of New Zealand's 26 regional rugby teams more...

1981 Springbok tour

1981 Springbok tour

It was simply called 'The Tour'. For 56 taut days in the winter of 1981, New Zealanders were divided against each other in the largest civil disturbance seen since the 1951 waterfront dispute. more...

The Olympics

The Olympics

New Zealand's Olympians – almost 1000 of them – have produced plenty of memorable moments over the years, but the Games have also been marred by boycotts, controversy and tragedy. more...

Natives' Rugby Tour, 1888-89

Natives' Rugby Tour, 1888-89

Discover how the side originally called New Zealand Maori came to be known as the NZ Natives. In 1888, the country's pioneering national sports team toured Britain, playing their first game of rugby on 3 October. more...

New Zealand cricket

New Zealand cricket

A history of cricket in New Zealand, including a list of key moments playing England and Australia. more...

Maori rugby timeline

Maori rugby timeline

A survey of the key moments in Maori rugby to mark the official centenary in 2010 more...

1982 Football World Cup

1982 Football World Cup

In 1982 Association Football (soccer)  seized the country’s imagination when the national side – the All Whites – took on the best in the world at the World Cup finals in Spain.

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Rowing in New Zealand

Rowing in New Zealand

Stories from New Zealand's rich rowing past more...

Sport, 1940-1960

Sport, 1940-1960

The mid 20th century heralded mass participation in sport, the consolidation of high profile national competitions, and greater success at international level. more...

The Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup

Relive some of New Zealand's greatest moments at the horse race that brings the country to a standstill each November more...

1987 Rugby World Cup

1987 Rugby World Cup

The origins of the first Rugby World Cup competition, won by the New Zealand All Blacks in 1987 more...