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The value of rugby to Taranaki

Report to: Venture Taranaki in association with the Taranaki Rugby Football Union


The value of rugby to Taranaki Table of contents

Acknowledgments: A special thank you to Ian Smith from Stratford Rugby and Sport Club and Brian Campbell from Coastal Rugby Club for contributing to the case studies. Venture Taranaki and the Taranaki Rugby Football Union wish to acknowledge the contribution of BERL who have undertaken much of the analysis required for this report.

1

Executive summary...................................................................................... 4

2

Introduction................................................................................................. 7

3

Taranaki rugby today................................................................................... 10

3.1 The region’s rugby heritage................................................................................ 10

3.2 Participation today................................................................................................ 10

3.3 Challenges faced.................................................................................................. 12

4

Quantifiable impacts of rugby...................................................................... 14

4.1 Ongoing quantitative economic impacts............................................................. 15

4.2 One-off quantitative economic impacts............................................................... 21

5

Qualitative impacts of rugby........................................................................ 28

5.1 Developing strong, sustainable and cohesive communities.............................. 28

5.2 Increasing skills, employment and economic prosperity.................................. 33

5.3 Improving health and reducing health inequalities............................................ 34

5.4 Reducing anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime....................................... 37

5.5 Improving life chances and focusing energies of young people....................... 38

6

Taranaki rugby scenarios............................................................................. 39

6.1 Scenario 1: The Air New Zealand Cup (ANZC).................................................. 40

6.2 Scenario 2: The Heartland Championship.......................................................... 40

6.3 Scenario 3: Super Rugby...................................................................................... 41

6.4 Summary of scenarios.......................................................................................... 43

7

Conclusions................................................................................................. 44

8

References................................................................................................... 46

9

Appendix: NZRU Criteria for Air New Zealand Cup....................................... 48

Photographs courtesy Rob Tucker, Taranaki Daily News

Business and Economic Research Limited, BERL House, 108 The Terrace, PO Box 10277, Wellington 6143, New Zealand T: 04 931 9200 F: 04 932 9202 info@berl.co.nz www.berl.co.nz

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

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Tables Table 3.1.

Taranaki Provincial Union key figures........................................................... 11

Table 4.1.

Major ongoing and one-off economic impacts of rugby in Taranaki......... 14

Table 4.2.

Current economic impact of rugby in Taranaki, 2008................................. 15

Table 4.3.

TRFU profit and loss statements, 2003 to 2008............................................ 17

Table 4.4.

Economic impact of TRFU, 2008.................................................................... 17

Table 4.5.

Economic impact of club operations, 2008.................................................. 18

Table 4.6.

Economic impact of school rugby, 2008...................................................... 18

Table 4.7.

Spending by out-of-region visitors to ANZC games................................... 19

Table 4.8.

Economic impact of Rugby World Cup, 2008.............................................. 22

Table 4.9.

Economic impact of All Blacks – Manu Samoa Test, 2008........................... 24

Table 4.10. Economic impact of 2004 Super 12 game in Taranaki, 2008...................... 25 Table 6.1.

Heartland scenario economic impact of rugby in the region..................... 41

Table 6.2.

Super Rugby scenario economic impact of rugby in the region............... 42

Figures Figure 2.1. Quantitative economic impacts of rugby..................................................... 7 Figure 2.2. Qualitative economic impacts of rugby....................................................... 8 Figure 4.1. Ongoing contribution of rugby to Taranaki GDP......................................... 16 Figure 4.2. One-off contributions of rugby to Taranaki GDP......................................... 21 Figure 5.1. Rugby round the mountain............................................................................ 32 Figure 5.2. Obesity rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2007.......................................... 34 Figure 5.3. Active lifestyle rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2007............................... 35 Figure 5.4. Maori share of Taranaki population and registrations, 2008....................... 36 Figure 5.5. Offence rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2008.......................................... 37 Figure 5.6. Cost of crime by category, 2003/04............................................................. 38 Figure 6.1. Contribution of scenarios to Taranaki GDP.................................................. 49

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The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

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1 Executive summary The ‘amber and blacks’ provide a point of focus for the Taranaki region. Their performance often instils a sense of pride and community. Consistent performers, often pulling off major upsets, they exemplify confidence in the ability of Taranaki to punch above its weight and to be a successful and go-ahead community. Rugby has helped shape the identity of the Taranaki region since the Union’s inception over 120 years ago.

The purpose of this report is to investigate the significance of rugby to the Taranaki region, as Venture Taranaki and the TRFU seek to encourage the community to consider the future of rugby in, and the contribution of rugby to, the region. The report also helps to determine whether there is a case for the region to support Taranaki rugby to have a place in the highest possible echelon of the sport available in New Zealand. Change will ultimately have a significant impact on provincial rugby in New Zealand. Throughout this change process there will be potential threats and

Quantitative benefits In 2008, total output (revenue) in the region due to the Taranaki Rugby Football Union, schools, and club rugby, was $11.9 million. This revenue generated $7.4 million in total GDP and 135 full-time equivalent jobs (FTEs). A range of other quantifiable economic impacts, such as the value of volunteerism, the impacts of three Rugby World Cup 2011 matches at Yarrow Stadium, the operations of Yarrow Stadium itself, and interschool rugby were not included in these figures, largely because the impact is indirect and cannot be

opportunities for Provincial Unions.

solely attributed to rugby in the region. However, it

part in communities throughout the region and is

Three potential scenarios of future rugby in Taranaki

central to the fabric of society in Taranaki.

supportive rugby community, these events would

have been considered in this report. These compare the

not occur.

It is a sport and activity ‘like no other’. It plays a critical

Registered participants in rugby account for more than five per cent of the total Taranaki population. Rugby in Taranaki starts at the grass roots level. Taranaki has one

involvement of Taranaki in: • amateur Heartland Rugby (a competition between minor Provincial Unions);

of the highest proportions of involvement of anywhere in New Zealand, especially in the younger age grades.

• a revamped, semi-professional national provincial competition, currently the Air New Zealand Cup

The changing face of rugby This report was commissioned by Venture Taranaki in association with the Taranaki Rugby Football Union

(ANZC); and • full-time professional rugby in an international competition such as the Super 14.

could be very strongly argued that without a parochial

Rugby is the catalyst for investment in key infrastructure and community amenities in the region such as Yarrow Stadium, and in smaller towns such as Inglewood where the Taranaki Electricity Trust Stadium has been

Rugby World Cup 2011 matches and associated events.

more impressive.

playing window to unify the game more between Northern and Southern Hemispheres • the issues of financial sustainability of rugby in New Zealand and Australia • the challenges around player work-load and the high number of games currently played by professional rugby players

An earlier study found that a super 12 game in 2004 contributed close to $400,000 to regional GDP. The game between the All Blacks and Manu Samoa in 2008 attracted several thousand people from

Conversely, albeit hypothetically, if Taranaki was

outside the region to the game and associated events,

positioned to take advantage of opportunities to secure

suggesting an impact of around $1.2 million on

a Super Rugby franchise at some point in the future,

regional GDP.

TRFU revenue could be boosted to between $10 million and $15 million a year. Total revenue could rise 157 percent from the current situation to $30.6 million a year, resulting in an increase in regional GDP of 160

dollars they generate, but even more so because they raise the profile of the Taranaki region, build a sense of pride and place, and contribute to making Taranaki a more attractive place to live.

Qualitative benefits There are various other ways that rugby benefits the Taranaki region that are not as easily quantified. These qualitative contributions to the community are in many ways at least as important as the quantitative contribution to the regional economy.

• increased community visibility – contributes to Taranaki being ‘on the map’

the region could drop significantly on current levels.

• the issue of endeavouring to create an international

These additional impacts are important because of the

benefits include:

nationally that is emerging due to several factors:

percent and employment by 57 percent.

to the world through RWC 2011 are significant.

as the All Blacks in 2008 and the recently announced

then the quantitative impacts would be substantially

contribution from rugby would subsequently fall by 65

Rugby World Cup. The benefits of marketing Taranaki

has significant benefits for communities. Some of these

top-flight national competition, rugby participation in

News Ltd

facilities that will be available to the region beyond

the attraction of significant rugby sporting events such

significant potential change for rugby globally and

Rugby (SANZAR) broadcasting arrangement with

region’s GDP. Participating will also result in improved

Generally, studies show that participation in team sport

If these events were accounted for in the report

rugby in the region could be a 62 percent fall. GDP

games and hosting a team could add $5.2 million to the

support for rugby in the region have contributed to

If Taranaki was to ‘drop the ball’ and end up out of the

• the expiry of the South Africa New Zealand Australia

facilities. The economic impact on the region with three

developed. In addition, the facilities and fervent

(TRFU).The timing of the report was based on the

The total impact on output (revenue) attributable to

stage the games with their existing infrastructure and

• regional pride, status and reputation • collective morale and the ‘feel good’ factor • enhanced community image and attractiveness for people to visit or relocate to the region • the stimulation of other development • social cohesion, improved healthy lifestyles, less crime, improved discipline and appreciation of team-work.

The successful Taranaki bid for Rugby World Cup 2011 was based largely on the passion for the game in the region, combined with the ability of the region to

percent, and an increase in employment of 72 percent.

• the future opportunities associated with Rugby World Cup 2011.

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The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

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2 Introduction Rugby’s point of difference in Taranaki is the central

The value of rugby is a summation of many factors -

part it plays in many of the communities around Mount

the team, facilities, location, institutional structure,

Taranaki, combined with the great level of interest the

stakeholders, history, the experience, game atmosphere,

representative team generates during the ANZC.

regional spirit, culture and local knowledge of the

Rugby is the only major sport where the entire Taranaki region is represented in a national, fully televised tier one competition in New Zealand. It embodies the spirit and nature of the Taranaki region where there is a perception that it is the underdog, which often performs beyond expectations. Taranaki rugby is grass roots. It generates a sense of community and pride in the region. In return, the community supports rugby whether it is financial, time, or participation. The findings of this report clearly indicate that there is a strong case for significant regional investment in rugby. Not only to protect the current value rugby offers Taranaki, but to also ensure that the sport is

game. It has a positive role in youth development,

This report was commissioned by Venture Taranaki in association with the Taranaki Rugby Football Union (TRFU). The purpose of the report is to investigate the importance and impact of rugby in the Taranaki region in a changing and uncertain environment.

community development and in bringing together people from all parts of society. The value which individual Taranaki residents place on rugby

Figure 2.1. Quantitative economic impacts of rugby

undoubtedly varies. Furthermore, value is also affected by timing. Taranaki rugby has experienced good years but also challenge and change. Overall, however, rugby forms an important part of Taranaki’s culture, history and identity, and looking ahead, given RWC 2011, the

Economic impact

sport will continue to do so.

eg. visitors attending games, spending money

Significant levels of social and economic benefit will be lost if Taranaki cannot support its own team in the top echelon of domestic rugby in New Zealand.

well positioned in the medium term to take advantage

We commend this report to anyone interested in the

of possible opportunities that may arise due to the

future of this wonderful province, we call home.

imminent and likely ongoing restructuring of the game.

$ Value of the team and supply chain

Spin off developments and gains

Taranaki Rugby STUART TRUNDLE

MARK ROBINSON

CHIEF EXECUTIVE, VENTURE TARANAKI

CHIEF EXECUTIVE, TARANAKI RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION

Economic development benefits

Community visibility and awareness eg. televised coverage, rugby putting “Taranaki” on the map

Enhanced community image and reputation

Figure 2.1, which summarises linkages between rugby and regional development, has traditionally predominantly focused on economic impacts e.g. the economic spin-offs from the presence of the premier team, rugby events, venue construction and so on.

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The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

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Figure 2.2. Qualitative economic impacts of rugby

The report begins in chapter 3 by looking at the

Chapter 6 introduces three possible scenarios for

history and current state of rugby in the region, and

the future of rugby in Taranaki. Two of these differ

summarises the contribution of the sport to Taranaki.

from the present case scenario of Taranaki having a professional team playing in New Zealand’s premier

Rugby impacts the region in two major ways:

competition. In the first of these different scenarios, Taranaki loses its professional (ANZC) rugby team, and competes instead in the Heartland Championship.

• economic activity generated through participation

In the second scenario, Taranaki participates in an

Community visibilty

and administration, the maintenance of

eg. contribution to image, pride and reputation

international competition such as Super Rugby. As in the

infrastructure to support the game, supporters who

examination of the current contribution of rugby in the

pay to attend the games and volunteers who give up

Taranaki Region, the scenarios consider quantitative and

valuable time to support the game. In most instances,

qualitative impacts.

Civic pride from being a ‘major league’ team

Excitement quotient contributes to emotion, vibrancy, and ‘feel good’ factor

this activity can be quantified. This is discussed in chapter 4

Chapter 7 provides some concluding remarks on the importance of rugby in Taranaki, the role it plays in

• social benefits generated through participation and

Enhanced collective self-esteem from a winning or respected team. The ‘feel good’ factor.

Qualitative Civic Benefits from Taranaki Rugby

Inspirational and aspirational connections eg. role-modelling, achievement, hardwork etc

Emotional involvement, love affair with a team

making the Region a more attractive place to live, and

association with sport. This is the value of sport in

the need to be prepared to adapt to changes in the

changing attitudes and perceptions – improving skills,

rugby environment. It also raises issues around the

developing strong, cohesive communities, enhancing

relationship between rugby and regional development.

regional pride, vibrancy, image and reputation, improving health, reducing anti-social behaviour, and focusing the energies of young people. These benefits are discussed in chapter 5.

Tangible focus for social bonding Positive sense of collective identity eg. Taranaki’s ‘can do’ attitude, punching above its weight

Figure 2.2 emphasises the qualitative contributions of rugby, such as social cohesion, pride and visibility. These also form an important part of this equation.

Photo courtesy of Taranaki Daily News

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3 Taranaki rugby today This chapter introduces the central role rugby has played, and continues to play, in the Taranaki region.

3.1 The region’s rugby heritage Rugby has been a key part of the Taranaki landscape

The Taranaki rugby team is a source of pride and

recreation report in 20071 surveying Taranaki residents highlights the importance of rugby to Taranaki. The key

383

49

• sixty-six percent of Taranaki residents watch rugby,

Total number 2008

2,562

1,488

637

4,687

311

54

Annual growth rate 2005-2008

11%

-7%

-6%

2%

-7%

3%

Rank by total number 2008

12

13

14

13

14

14

Rank by annual growth rate

4

23

25

11

24

16

either live or televised • of all recreational activities undertaken by residents,

• seven percent of Taranaki residents used the Yarrow Stadium facilities. As expected, a greater proportion

with Taranaki able to compete with the best despite its

of New Plymouth residents (11 percent) used the

relatively small population. Taranaki has maintained

Stadium compared with the rest of Taranaki • over 85 percent of Yarrow Stadium users viewed it as either very good or good value for money.

consistently outperforms larger regions.

it six further times. In 1957, Taranaki beat Otago and then defended it 13 times. In 1963 it beat Wellington and then successfully defended it 15 times. Out of all the unions, Taranaki has the sixth highest number of Ranfurly Shield game wins, with 36. After lifting the shield against Otago in 1957, there were around 20,000 people lining the route from the old airport to town to congratulate them.

Referees

4,470

Rugby has always been a major sport in the region,

Taranaki won the shield off Auckland and defended

Coaches

771

Taranaki respondents

four times, in 1913, 1957, 1963 and 1996. In 1913,

Total

1,821

a major role in the lives of people born or raised

Taranaki has held the challenge based Ranfurly Shield

Age 21+

1,878

rugby was the third most common, at six percent of

since the inception of professional rugby in 1996 and it

Age 13-20

Total number 2005

Hawera and Patea. Since then, rugby has played

a representative team in the top tier of competition

Under 13

points from this report are as follows:

Egmont – was selected from senior clubs existing

in Taranaki.

Players

essential component in the lives of many. A sport and

since 1885, when the region’s first touring team – in Taranaki at the time - Waitara, Taranaki, Waimate,

Table 3.1 Taranaki Provincial Union Key Figures

association for Taranaki residents where rugby is an

3.2 Participation today Over 5,500 people, or more than five percent of the Taranaki population, either play, coach or referee rugby

Rank (out of 26 provincial unions)

Source: New Zealand Rugby Union

In terms of absolute numbers of players, TRFU is the

Growth in the older age groups is less heartening,

13th largest provincial union in the country, with 4,687

yet consistent with the general decline that is faced

players in 2008. Growth in the number of younger

nationally. Age 13-20 year olds playing rugby in

players, partly offset by falls in older player numbers,

Taranaki have fallen by seven percent per annum on

has led to an overall annual growth rate of 2 percent

average over the last three years, and over 21 year old

over the last three years – the 11th fastest growing

players have fallen six percent per annum. We would

provincial rugby union in New Zealand.

expect, however, that the growing number of under 13 players in the sport will lead to more positive growth

in the Taranaki region. There are over 90 organisations

The growth over the last three years in the under 13

– schools and clubs – that participate in rugby

age bracket is encouraging. TRFU under 13 players grew

competitions in Taranaki. Rugby activity, as shown in

by 11 percent per annum from 2005 to 2008, to reach

Also of concern is the fall in the number of coaches seen

Figure 5.1, is spread around the entire region.

a total of 2,562. The majority of this growth occurred

in the region, from 383 in 2005 to 311 in 2008, down

from 2007 to 2008. The under 13 age group now makes

seven percent a year. In 2005, there were approximately

up over half of all rugby players in Taranaki. Compared

12 players per coach in Taranaki; this ratio has increased

with the other RFUs in New Zealand, Taranaki under 13

to 15 players per coach in 2008.

Table 3.1 summarises the 2008 number of Taranaki players, coaches and referees and growth in numbers over the last three years, and then ranks the TRFU’s performance against the other 25 provincial rugby unions.

players rank as the fourth fastest growing.

in the older groups as the players age.

The number of referees has grown, however. Referee numbers increased by on average two percent per year over the last three years.

1

Key Research Ltd. (2007). Taranaki Sport and Recreation Needs Assessment: A survey of Sport, Recreation and Physical Activity in the Taranaki Region 2006/2007.

Photo courtesy of Taranaki Daily News

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School rugby

3.3 Challenges faced

There are between 130 and 140 primary and secondary

Rugby is going through a number of changes and facing

school teams in the region. Between them, these

an increasing number of pressures.

teams have at least 2,340 players and coaching staff. The figure is likely to be significantly higher than this,

• player numbers are, in general, declining due

however, as many players who play for their school also

to increasing competition from other forms of

play for a club, but are registered only once – usually

entertainment, not only sporting activity, but

for the club.

leisure activity

There are numerous grades at the secondary and primary levels. Secondary School rugby has five grades from A grade to E grade. Junior rugby has eight grades from under 13 to under 6.

Club Rugby

• it is becoming harder to find volunteers to support the game • at the grass roots, there are fewer male teachers, making it more difficult for schools to participate • at the operational level, there is more competition for sponsorship funding and, in the current economic

Taranaki Club rugby is the foundation for the game

climate, competition from other more pressing

in the province. In 2009, there were 17 active clubs.

business needs.

Around 3,200 players, coaching and administrative staff are registered at clubs.

This report is timely because it provides an analysis of the value of rugby within a region, at a time when

There are two levels of participation in club rugby: • Senior (afternoon grade) • Junior (morning grade). In the Senior competition there are four grades: Senior A, Senior B, Senior 3rds and under 20. The Senior A and

the regional game is facing both risk and opportunity. With several provinces currently finding it difficult to maintain financial viability, defining the value proposition to all those who benefit from the game is important. If that value is to be maintained and enhanced it first has to be identified and recognised.

B competitions have 10 teams in each grade with the

And that is what rugby in the regions does – provides a

Senior 3rds and under 20 grade numbers depending on

positive contribution to the community, the region, and

entries from year to year.

enables the nation to celebrate the success of the All

The two top secondary school 1st XV teams (New

Blacks, our national team.

Plymouth Boys and Francis Douglas) also compete in the

Taranaki rugby thus plays a much wider role than

Club under 20 competition.

just providing an opportunity for sponsors wishing

Each team is supported by a team manager, head coach, and assistant coach. Top-tier teams may also have a trainer, physiotherapist and another assistant coach.

to advertise or associate products. It provides major benefits to individuals, individual communities and the Taranaki region. These additional benefits are largely correctly defined as public good and justify

Many of the junior teams rely on the good will

consideration and support from public agencies in

of parents to get players to and from training,

furthering their roles to promote community wellbeing.

Coastal Rugby Football Club The Coastal community is relatively small and very isolated, stretched between the rural communities of Opunake, Rahotu and Okato along the coast of Taranaki. The one thing that brings them together each week is Saturday morning rugby. The Coastal community has a strong sense of pride in their teams, with rugby being a major obsession for the area. There are around 450 players in 21 teams (4 club teams, 14 primary school teams and 3 high school teams). Up to 60 percent of the community come to watch the games during the season, with crowds known to reach up to 400 for some games.

The club leases a dairy farm, and sponsors’ contributions purchase cows and equipment for it. The proceeds of the farm support the club, and include providing all players with jerseys each season. While there is never a shortage of volunteer coaches and referees, Coastal is finding it difficult to attract management and administration volunteers, up to the point where they are considering paid positions. One reason for this may be Coastal’s obsession for rugby! Players are playing rugby well into their forties, and have no interest in hanging up their boots for a desk job.

The club enjoys strong financial support in the Coastal area also, with 500 subscribed members, and around 70 local sponsors. Five large multinationals also support the club. When the three teams of Opunake, Rahotu and Okato were amalgamated into one Coastal club, a question arose on how it would be financed. Initial thoughts about running a pub fell through, because as the club management were farmers, they had no experience in that area. What they did know was how to run a farm, however, so that is what they did.

COASTAL V NEW PLYMOUTH OLD BOYS

twice a week.

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4 Quantifiable impacts of rugby This chapter deals with the quantifiable economic impacts of rugby in the Taranaki region. Quantifiable impacts are those impacts that we can measure with a degree of accuracy. They are important in that they provide a financial measure of the contribution in terms of contribution to productive activity (GDP) and employment. Within this report two types of quantifiable impact - ongoing (annual), and one-off (events) - have been identified.

Ongoing impacts include the operation of the TRFU,

Rugby in the region generates:

club and school rugby, and tourism expenditure • direct output (revenue) of around $7.60 million

generated by ANZC spectators from outside the region. Further, the economic impacts of Yarrow Stadium,

a year, direct GDP of $4.41 million a year, and 93

which, it is argued, is only viable as a part of the local

direct FTEs

infrastructure as a result of the importance of rugby to

• total output of $11.9 million a year, total GDP of

the region, and the economic value of volunteerism,

$7.43 million a year, and 136 total FTEs.

are discussed.

These are conservative figures as they exclude:

One-off impacts include those of the Rugby World Cup games to be hosted by the Region in 2011, the All Blacks

• any form of volunteerism other than coaching of the

test in 2008, and the impact of a Super Rugby game such as that held in the Region in 2004. Table 4.1 summarises the main ongoing and one-off quantifiable economic impacts of rugby in the Region.2

approximately 300 school and club rugby teams in

4.1 Ongoing quantitative economic impacts

the region. In other words, it excludes the value of

This section presents the estimated ongoing

games such as ANZC matches at Yarrow Stadium, and

quantitative impacts of rugby in Taranaki on output

administrative support

time spent refereeing, transporting players to and from matches or practice, unpaid assistance at major

(revenue), GDP and employment. The figures in this

Table 4.1. Major ongoing and one-off economic impacts of rugby in Taranaki Quantifiable impacts

Total GDP ($m)

Total FTEs

Ongoing (annual) impacts

section explicitly take into account only the impacts of operations of the TRFU, club and school rugby, as well

operation and maintenance of public sports grounds

as the annual ANZC competition.

used for rugby, including the operation of Yarrow Stadium. For instance, it can easily be argued

Various figures for volunteerism and Yarrow Stadium’s

that without a first division Taranaki rugby team,

contribution to the region are also estimated, but are

there would be significant impacts on the business efficiency of Yarrow Stadium

TRFU

$4.62

66

not included in overall figures.

Club rugby

$0.92

37

Table 4.2 presents the effects on employment, GDP

School rugby

$1.34

21

NPC matches

$0.55

11

• employment, GDP and output created by the

and output of rugby in the region.

• additional economic impacts of Yarrow Stadium when used for other events, noting that without rugby, there would not have been as large a facility

Table 4.2. Current economic impact of rugby in Taranaki, 2008

One-off impacts

• employment, GDP and output created by any largescale rugby-related capital expenditure in the region

Rugby World Cup 2011

$5.24

97

Economic impact

Direct

Total

All Blacks Test 2008

$1.19

23

Output ($m)

$7.60

$11.91

Super Rugby match

$0.39

8

GDP ($m)

$4.41

$7.43

Employment (FTEs)

93.0

135.5

Source: BERL

not paid for out of club or Rugby Union revenues (e.g. grants from SPARC). TRFU activity accounts for around 60 percent of GDP generated by rugby, with the remainder split between club rugby, school rugby and ANZC matches (visitor activity). Each of these is discussed individually.

Source: BERL

2 Volunteerism is not included in this table because the work is not actually paid (and therefore does not generate GDP). However, in the section on volunteerism, we estimate the value of such activity if it were paid. Yarrow Stadium is also not included because an accurate portion of total revenues generated by events at the Stadium cannot be apportioned to rugby. Nevertheless, the ongoing role of the Stadium is discussed in this report.

14

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15


Figure 4.1 Ongoing contribution to Taranaki ($7.43m annually) Source: BERL

Taranaki Rugby Football Union

Table 4.4 Economic impact of TRFU, 2008

The TRFU employs around 15 full-time staff, with a further 28 contracted players. The TRFU is one union that has been able to remain financially viable over the years, as shown in Table 4.3. Income has exceeded expenditure in five of the

Club rugby, $0.92m 12%

last six years.

School rugby, $1.34m, 18% NPC, $0.55m 8%

TRFU

Direct

Total

Output ($m)

$4.22

$6.71

GDP ($m)

$2.55

$4.62

Employment (FTEs)

43.0

66.2 Source: BERL

Income from sponsorship has remained the largest component of revenue over the six years. Its share of

Revenues generated by the TRFU in 2008 accounted

total revenue has risen from a little over one third in

for around two-thirds of the total ongoing output

2003, to nearly half in 2008. Income from other sources

generated by rugby in the region in this analysis, at

(most notably the Hurricanes) has fallen significantly,

$4.22 million. This resulted in GDP of around $2.55

from $1.29 million in 2003 to $760,000 in 2008.

million, and 43 direct FTEs (staff and contracted players).

Expenditure through the TRFU has ongoing impacts

Taking into account indirect and induced impacts, the

and contributes to GDP and employment in the

TRFU produced $6.71 million in output, $4.62 million in

Taranaki region. Table 4.4 presents the economic

GDP, and 66 FTEs.

impact of the TRFU.

Table 4.3 TRFU profit and loss statements, 2003 to 2008

TRFU, $4.62m 62% Figure 4.1 breaks down the ongoing contributions to Taranaki GDP by the different groups of activity: Taranaki Rugby Football Union; club rugby; school rugby; ANZC matches.

TRFU profit and loss statement

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Income ($000)

$2,932

$2,620

$2,942

$3,541

$4,152

$4,222

Sponsorships

$898

$930

$1,072

$1,329

$1,610

$1,954

NZRU Grants

$626

$670

$820

$949

$1,075

$943

Team Taranaki

$122

$173

$202

$508

$944

$565

Other

$1,285

$847

$849

$756

$524

$760

Expenses ($000)

$2,712

$2,551

$2,907

$3,654

$4,033

$4,205

Players and player development

$968

$1,069

$1,288

$1,661

$1,874

$1,780

Staff

$735

$748

$837

$937

$1,063

$1,207

Commercial expenses

$610

$313

$293

$509

$505

$603

Other

$399

$421

$488

$547

$592

$616

Net profit/loss ($000)

$220

$70

$35

$-112

$119

$17 Source: TRFU

16

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

17


Club operations Based on TRFU records, more than 3,200 players, administrators and coaches are registered at rugby clubs across Taranaki. There are up to 160 club teams in the region.

The figure of 24 direct FTEs was estimated on the

A similar methodology was used to estimate the direct

assumption that the average coach spends six hours

employment due to school rugby as was used for clubs.

of a 40-hour work-week at training sessions or at

Each coach was estimated to spend around six hours a

matches. This is a conservative estimate. It also does not

week on activities related to their coaching.

NPC visitor spending

Direct

Total

As with club rugby, the estimate does not take into

Output ($m)

$0.74

$1.10

GDP ($m)

$0.37

$0.55

Employment (FTEs)

8.5

10.9

take into account administrative, volunteer, or refereeing staff.

Table 4.5 presents the estimated economic impact of club operations in the region in 2008.

Table 4.5 Economic impact of club operations, 2008 Club operations

Direct

Total

Output ($m)

$1.37

$2.19

GDP ($m)

$0.51

$0.92

Employment (FTEs)

24.1

37.1 Source: BERL

The TRFU was able to provide operating expenditure data for seven of the region’s 17 clubs. Bulking this figure up to cover the 17 clubs gave a direct output figure of around $1.37 million, resulting in GDP of $510,000.

account the contribution of referees, administrative and

Including upstream and downstream impacts, club

support volunteers. It also does not take into account

operations in Taranaki create $2.19 million in revenue

the possible tourism impact of inter-school competitions

(output), $920,000 in GDP, and around 37 FTEs.

which bring school teams from across the country into

Table 4.7 Spending by out-of-region visitors to ANZC games

Source: BERL

Taranaki for tournaments.

School rugby

Each year, the region’s two most well-known rugby-

Direct spending by out-of-region spectators is around

More than 2,300 players, administrators and coaches are

playing schools, Francis Douglas and New Plymouth Boys

$740,000, resulting in $370,000 in GDP and 8.5 FTEs. The

registered through schools across Taranaki. There are

High School, host inter-school rugby tournaments.

total impact includes $1.10 million in output, $550,000

around 130 to 140 school teams in the region.

These games bring considerable numbers of out-of-

Table 4.6 presents the quantitative economic impact of

region visitors to Taranaki – players, coaches, parents

school rugby in the region.

and additional teaching staff. While many of the

Table 4.6 Economic impact of school rugby, 2008

in GDP, and 11 FTEs.

Yarrow Stadium

touring team members will stay at the homes of players

Yarrow Stadium, like Taranaki rugby, is a focus and

from the two Taranaki schools, it does increase regional

object of pride for the region’s people. Yarrow Stadium

spending on retail, food and transport.

was recently rated in the top three rugby venues in

In addition, the inter-school tournaments raise the

the world, behind only Millennium Stadium, in Cardiff, Wales, and Suncorp Stadium, in Brisbane.³

Schools rugby

Direct

Total

Output ($m)

$1.26

$1.92

build community spirit as residents rally behind the local

The present capacity of the stadium, at 20,685, is

teams. They also bring prestige to the region’s schools,

GDP ($m)

$0.98

$1.34

larger than that of McLean Park in Napier, or Arena

which are able to compete at a national level.

Manawatu in Palmerston North, for instance, despite

Employment (FTEs)

17.5

21.4 Source: BERL

profile of the game in Taranaki and elsewhere, and

a smaller regional population in Taranaki. By Rugby

ANZC matches Yarrow Stadium plays host to five to six ANZC matches

World Cup 2011, Yarrow Stadium will be able to hold 25,000 spectators.

School rugby is estimated to generate $1.26 million in

in an average year. In 2008, a total of 28,000 spectators

Yarrow Stadium was the fifth most popular regional

direct output, resulting in $980,000 in GDP, and around

attended these games. Assuming that 10 percent

facility in the Taranaki region.4

18 FTEs. Taking into account indirect and induced

of these spectators were from outside the region,

impacts suggests total output due to school rugby is

spending on average $266 a day, the results in Table 4.7

$1.92 million. This output is from 21 FTEs, producing

are obtained.

$1.34 million in GDP.

A strong case can be made that without strong support for rugby in the Taranaki region, there would be no justification for Yarrow Stadium and its current size and level of amenity. Nevertheless, the fact that the Stadium is used for purposes other than rugby makes it unrealistic to include it as a direct ongoing economic impact of rugby.

³ New Zealand Rugby World, May 2009 Issue. 4 Sport Taranaki (2007). Taranaki Sport and Recreation Needs Assessment – 2007.

18

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

19


4.2 One-off quantitative economic impacts

Historically, the Stadium has played host to a number

Furthermore, in the case of sports teams, players and

Assuming an average hourly rate of $24.70, and four

of matches across various sporting codes, including

support staff are likely to arrive in the region several

hours a week (0.1 FTE each) of volunteer time, the

Hurricanes rugby games; Genesis Taranaki versus British

days before the game, and possibly stay a day after. This

economic impact of these 195 volunteers is significant.7

and Irish Lions (rugby); Taranaki ANZC rugby games;

results in considerable spending on accommodation,

If these volunteers were paid, the impact would equate

This section looks at three one-off quantifiable impacts

New Zealand Maori versus England (rugby);

food and other tourism-related expenses.

to 19.5 direct FTEs, and almost $1 million in direct

of rugby in Taranaki: the hosting of three matches,

GDP a year.

upgrades and a team based in Taranaki for the Rugby

New Zealand Maori versus Scotland (rugby); Central Districts versus Sri Lanka (cricket); and New Zealand Warriors versus Parramatta Eels (rugby league). In 2008, it was the first stadium outside the main centres to host the All Blacks since 1996. The quality of the stadium, combined with the region’s enthusiasm for rugby, helped secure three Rugby World Cup 2011 games. In 2008 alone, the Stadium hosted 35 national and three international events. These included:

Current financing models for sports stadiums suggest

World Cup 2011, the 2008 All Blacks – Manu Samoa test

that their construction should be a private-public

However, the role of volunteerism is about far more

investment due to the spill-over benefits or public

than the monetary impact on the economy. The need

good they accrue. A study by Crompton (2004)

for volunteerism in a sport like rugby, which plays such

Figure 4.2 shows the one-off contributions to GDP

identified five categories of benefits: direct economic

a major role in Taranaki, spills over into other aspects of

of rugby events in the region.

impact; increased community visibility; enhanced

life as well. It promotes a culture of volunteerism, which

community image; stimulation of other development;

benefits many more sectors of the community, such as

and psychic income.

charities, community centres, and visitor centres.

match, and a Super Rugby game.

Each of these is discussed further in this section. Note that these three events are not exactly comparable. The Rugby World Cup contribution includes the three pool

While some of these benefits are tenuous, Crompton

games, the upgrade to Yarrow Stadium, and a team

suggested that “all types of spill-overs may generate

based in Taranaki; whereas the All Blacks Test and the

ANZC matches, seven 2nd XV national rugby matches,

some benefits in some contexts, for example, if a

super rugby match are for a single match only.8

four regional grade rugby matches, and the

facility is well integrated into a strategic economic

New Zealand deaf rugby tournament

development, it may facilitate economic benefits”.

• Rugby union: one rugby union international, five

Figure 4.2. One-off contributions of rugby to Taranaki GDP • Rugby league: two rugby league internationals, three

The Stadium had revenue of $170,000 in 2008. Taking

national provincial rugby league matches, one

into account indirect and induced effects, this is around

New Zealand Warriors U20s match, and one 100th

$270,000 in total revenue for Taranaki.

6

rugby league anniversary celebration match • Other: nine association football provincial

Volunteerism

championships matches, and two non-sporting

Rugby plays a major role in volunteerism in Taranaki.

conferences.

Some of this volunteerism has already been covered

The impact of these events is far larger than the revenue accruing to the Stadium. They bring in tourism revenue from those visiting from outside the region.

4

$m

in our discussion of the quantitative impact of schools

2

and club rugby, where volunteer coaches are included in the estimates.

For instance, the ongoing economic impacts of tourists

The case study in the accompanying box gives a clearer

visiting for ANZC games held at Yarrow Stadium are

picture of the extent of volunteering at a club level and

dealt with in section 4.1 of this report. A further

the role that rugby plays in communities in the region.

0 Rugby World Cup 2011

All Blacks Test 2008

Event

example is a report in 2004 which identified the economic benefits to the Taranaki region of a

There were 195 registered administrators / volunteers

Super 12 game to be around $400,000 in GDP from

and referees in Taranaki in 2008. This is likely to be an

tourism spending.5

underestimate, as information on volunteers is far less complete than that on players, coaches and referees.6 In addition, large events like the Rugby World Cup or ANZC games require far more volunteers.

6

5

Venture Taranaki. (2004). Economic Impact Study: Hurricanes vs Sharks Super 12 Rugby Game.

20

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

In the Taranaki Sport and Recreation Needs Assessment – 2007 report, 14 percent of respondents who were administrators or coaches identified themselves as being rugby administrators and coaches.

Super Rugby Match Source: BERL

7

The figure of $24.70 an hour is the average pay rate in the cultural and recreational services industry according to the Quarterly Employment Survey: June 2008 quarter, published by Statistics New Zealand. Some studies assume a far lower dollar value for time volunteered. Those studies take into account only the value to the volunteer of the time volunteered. However, the value of the time spent volunteering is in fact the “productivity” of that time. In the case of refereeing a rugby game, for instance, the time should be valued as what it generates for the 30 players on the field, their coaches, and supporters. In these terms, a figure of $24.70 is particularly conservative.

8

To put it into context, our estimates suggest that the expenditure generated from a World Cup game is similar to the expenditure generated from the All Blacks test.

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

21


Rugby World Cup 2011 Yarrow Stadium played a significant role in securing three

Taranaki could also be the home venue for one of the teams

World Cup 2011 matches for the region. One match will

participating in the tournament. . Depending on the team

include Ireland (currently the fourth-ranked team in the

this could generate additional expenditure of between

world). Wales (seventh) will contest another.

$1 million and $2 million. A conservative estimate is a figure

There will be several components to the one-off economic impact of Rugby World Cup in 2011. These include: • tourism revenue generated by visitors from overseas and other parts of New Zealand coming to the three matches • additional expenditure of around $2 million on the Stadium in preparation for the tournament

of around $1.2 million based on a six-week period, a squad and support team of 40, and an average daily spend per team member of $700 (double the average international overnight visitor spend). Summing the expenditure generated by the three components – tourist spending, Stadium spending, and the Taranaki-based team spending – we have direct output of around $7.6 million.

• additional expenditure by the team that may be based in Taranaki. This would involve the host team and supporters

This expenditure produces the one-off economic impacts

being in the region for up to six weeks.

summarised in Table 4.8.11

Rugby World Cup 2011 is expected to attract 71,000 overseas

Table 4.8 Economic impact of Rugby World Cup $2008

9

visitors. The largest numbers of these visitors are likely to be from Australia, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.

Rugby World Cup

Direct

Total

The Wales and Ireland games in particular are likely to

Output ($m)

$7.59

$12

GDP ($m)

$3.09

$5.24

Employment (FTEs)

69.3

97.4

bring large numbers of overseas and out-of-region visitors to Taranaki. Overseas visitors spend on average $361 per overnight visit; domestic visitors spend $266.10 If even a small number of out-of-region visitors attend matches at

Source: BERL

Yarrow Stadium, this will result in a significant one-off impact on Taranaki.

Around $7.59 million in direct spending will result in an

A conservative estimate is that 10 percent of overseas visitors

additional $3.09 million in direct GDP and the equivalent

to Rugby World Cup 2011 will attend games in Taranaki. The

of 69 one-year FTEs.

vast majority of these will be from Wales and Ireland although there will be some supporters from other overseas countries such as the Americas 2 qualifier, Europe 2 qualifier, and Africa 1 qualifier, all of which will play in Taranaki.

Adding indirect and induced impacts raises these figures to $12.0 million in output, $5.24 million in GDP, and the equivalent of 97 one-year FTEs.

Approximately 7,000 overseas visitors would be likely

These figures are conservative, as they include low estimates

to attend matches in Taranaki.

of overseas visitors from Wales and Ireland.

A further 7,000 visitors from other parts of New Zealand,

When you consider the further investment by the region

mostly Wellington, Manawatu-Wanganui, and Waikato, are

into facilities and associated events, marketing and exposure

also likely to attend. Together, these overseas and domestic

around RWC 2011, the impact grows even further. More

visitors are likely to generate around $4.39 million in tourism

in-depth analysis of the economic impacts of RWC 2011

revenue for the region.

would probably show significantly higher contributions. The numbers could also be higher or lower depending upon how

9

Taranaki leverages off its participation in the main event.

10

11

Estimated Economic Impact of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Howarth Asia Pacific Limited in conjunction with Market Economics, 2006.

Forecasts of Regional Tourism Activity in New Zealand by Year 2007-2013, Tourism Research Council, 2007.

Photo of Rob Tucker 22 courtesy The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

A recent report by BERL and John Cook & Associates identified a revenue stream of $3.12 million for a single game.

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

23


All Blacks Test 2008 Getting an All Blacks test was a major achievement for Taranaki in 2008. An All Blacks test in a provincial union is very rare and is a testament to Taranaki’s standing in the rugby community. With over 70 Taranaki players having represented the All Blacks, it was fitting that Taranaki finally got to host a test match for the first time in the Union’s 120 years. The event was a celebration of rugby in the region,

Table 4.9 Economic impact of All Blacks - Manu Samoa Test, 2008 All Blacks Test 2008

Direct

Total

Output ($m)

$1.60

$2.35

GDP ($m)

$0.79

$1.19

Employment (FTEs)

18.1

23.3 Source: BERL / TRFU

with the All Blacks arriving days earlier and a number

An estimated additional $930,000 was spent in Taranaki

Super Rugby Taranaki, as part of the Hurricanes franchise, has hosted a number of Super 12 and Super 14 games over the years, with the latest game being in 2009. A report in 2004 identified the economic benefits to the Taranaki region of a Super 12 game. Of the 13

12,500 spectators, an estimated 1,288, or 10.3 percent, were from outside of Taranaki, with the majority coming from Wellington and Manawatu-Wanganui. On average, visitors stayed 1.74 nights in Taranaki.

This game generated around $0.79 million in direct GDP,

Over half of guest nights were in hotels. Out-of-region

community leading up to the game.

and the equivalent of 18 direct one-year FTEs. The total

spectators surveyed gave positive feedback on the

impacts on the region included $2.35 million in output,

quality of Yarrow’s facilities, as well as the friendliness

$1.19 million in GDP, and 23 one-year FTEs.

of the Taranaki people.

family) corporate hosting, external sponsor presence,

There were also a number of events that were run

Table 4.10 shows the one-off output and GDP values

event and team support, that up to 6,000 visitors for the

concurrently with the Test match, which attracted

from the 2004 study, adjusted to 2008 figures for

game were from outside Taranaki. Assuming an average

additional expenditure and exposure for the region,

comparison purposes.

spend per visit of $266 per domestic visitor12, we have

that are not captured in these figures. The game was

direct expenditure (output) of $1.60 million generated

televised internationally, and the fact that it was in

for the region, as shown in Table 4.9.

Taranaki was not lost in the commentary.

tickets bought in the region for visiting friends and

$630,000 and indirect and induced effects of $300,000. As the result of the additional expenditure, 8.2 one-year equivalent FTEs were created. Additional value added

of events organised to enable interaction with the

TRFU have estimated, based on ticket sales (including

because of the game, including direct expenditure of

(GDP) was estimated at $390,000, including $270,000 direct GDP, and indirect and induced effects of $120,000. The report concluded that the Super 12 game held in New Plymouth had a positive economic benefit to New Plymouth and Taranaki in general, and that Yarrow Stadium had adequate infrastructure to host Super 12 games. The event also had the positive effect of being televised nationally and internationally, exposing Taranaki to the rest of the country as well as viewers in South Africa and Australia. Spectators and players visiting Taranaki for the game gave a tourism boost to the region, with the potential for future return visits given their

Table 4.10 Economic impact of 2004 Super 12 game in Taranaki, 2008 Hurricanes vs Sharks Super 12 2004

Direct

Total

Output ($m)

$0.63

$0.93

GDP ($m)

$0.27

$0.39

Employment (FTEs)

6.8

8.2

experience there.

Source: Venture Taranaki

Photo courtesy of Taranaki Daily News

13 12

Forecasts of Regional Tourism Activity in New Zealand by Year 2007-2013, Tourism Research Council, 2007.

24

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

Economic impact study: Hurricanes vs. Sharks Super 12 Rugby Game. Venture Taranaki, 2004.

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

25


... Identity - pride in where we live and who we are

Taranaki rugby, it’s about... ... Our youth, healthy activity, life skills, teamwork, values

... Our future, our place in New Zealand and the national game ... Our communities, bringing people together for a common purpose, sharing

... Our economy, employment, visitors, big events

... It’s about Taranaki and it’s about us

... Lifestyle, recreation, fun and friendship

A GAME LIKE NO OTHER


5 Qualitative impacts of rugby Stratford Rugby and Sports Club

The qualitative impacts of rugby on the Taranaki region are probably the more important component of this benefits analysis. Unfortunately the numbers behind this impact cannot be determined with any accuracy. If they could, it may well be that these figures would far surpass those identified in the quantitative analysis in chapter 4.

• Creating safer communities: reducing anti-social

5.1 Developing strong, sustainable and cohesive communities

played for one of the Stratford teams.

The benefits of sport in general are well documented.

At a very core level, it can be argued that, as the only

approximately 180 Saturday morning grade primary

These accrue at an individual, community and national

major14 professional sports team representing the

school players. The Stratford Rugby and Sports Club

level. Indeed, around the world governments spend a

entire Taranaki region, the Taranaki ANZC rugby team

also have ten netball teams.

significant amount on encouraging participation and

encourages cohesiveness within and a sense of pride

excellence across all sports.

in Taranaki. Further, the fact that the domestic rugby

The vision for Sport Taranaki according to the 20072010 strategic plan is to “Inspire a healthy active

behaviour and the fear of crime • Transforming lives: improving the life chances and

The Stratford Rugby and Sports Club is a key

focusing the energies of children and young people.

organisation in Stratford, which is a rural district It is important to look at how rugby in Taranaki

with around 9,000 people. It would be difficult to find

contributes across each of these five areas.

a family in Stratford that is interested in rugby that doesn’t have at least one person who plays or has

There are four afternoon grade teams and

The Club is well supported within its community. The Club receives numerous sponsorships from within the

competition has participation from communities around

community. The stands are full for every home game.

the mountain also encourages cohesiveness.

After match ceremonies are well attended by the

community”. Their strategic objectives over the

Having a professional sports team able to play at the

supporters and the community at large. After a home

three years include:

highest level of competition in New Zealand provides

game, the rugby club is the place to be on a Saturday

a point of focus for communities in Taranaki. It

to enjoy the company of neighbours. People frequent

engenders a sense of pride and togetherness, which

the club to enjoy the community spirit and those that

is a major factor in developing the culture and

aren’t necessarily rugby fans will still attend to discuss

perspective in a region.

gardening, farming or their other interests.

These outcomes contribute to important pillars

The Club is the predominant way many Stratford

• high quality and successful sport development • active communities across Taranaki region • increase in participation levels of youth • reduction of inequalities in all areas.

advocated by Taranaki Councils and key stakeholders

community members identify themselves within the

Rugby can and already is playing a leading role in

as documented in their Long Term Community Plans.

larger region. The Club facilitates a positive family

achieving these objectives. Rugby’s role in successful

The provincial rugby team is a highly visible symbol and

environment that urges the community to be a part

sport development has been largely discussed already.

within kiwi culture it is often inextricably aligned to

of something that represents, and engenders pride in,

This section focuses on the other three objectives.

the reputation and identity of a region. Rugby is the

Stratford. The Club proudly displays its place within

‘national game’, thus the standing of a province’s rugby

Taranaki and New Zealand rugby as a whole.

Sport England has five papers that advocate the value

team serves as an important medium through which

of sport in shaping places. These papers are:

perceptions and judgements about a location

• Building communities: developing strong, sustainable

15

The Club also works within the community. In the current environment, they have offered labour (from

are sometimes made.

their players) in exchange for sponsorship providing an immediate return to sponsors and giving the

and cohesive communities

players a chance to demonstrate their gratitude to the

• Increased prosperity: increasing skills; employment

community that supports them.

and economic prosperity • Healthier communities: improving health and reducing health inequalities 14 You could argue that Basketball is also represented here through the Taranaki Devon Dynamos. 15

Taranaki Council Long term Plans (2009/2019) advocate a region which is vibrant, connected, together, secure and healthy, prosperous, skilled and sustainable.

28

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

Photos courtesy of Rob Tucker

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

29


Being good on the field can be extrapolated to being

For the locals, rugby can play an important part of the

Biological research has found that winning or losing

Successes in Taranaki rugby also help to put the region

indicative of the calibre, status and personality of the

collective experience and regional pride. When people

in sport can have a direct effect on the chemical

on the map in terms of national prominence. The

region generally. In the top echelon of New Zealand

rally around their home team, it forms a unifying

composition of people’s brains, which in turn affects the

province gains media attention, promotion and visibility.

rugby, Taranaki can hold its head high. The Pistoll report

experience which crosses the boundaries of age, social

morale of people. Winning raises the serotonin levels

However these connections are more than in name only;

(2005) found that Taranaki rugby stakeholders perceived

status and institution. The bonds of rugby fill social

in brains (contributing to the ‘feel good’ factor) whilst

they are also in identity. Taranaki rugby players may

these to be important social spin offs from having a

voids and networks. Rugby talk regarding the team’s

loss lowers such levels.19 When Taranaki rugby ‘does

be seen and portrayed in the media in certain ways.

successful rugby team. Winning and competing well

performance pervades homes, schools, businesses

well’ this contributes to heightened levels of positivity

Like it or not, they become embodied symbols and/or

contributed to regional pride, reputation and morale.

and board rooms. It provides a tangible focus which

and self esteem within the Taranaki community.

ambassadors who reflect Taranaki, for example, in terms

contributes to community consciousnesses and bonding.

However, this also implies failure in terms of team

of regional patriotism, principles and personality.

Residents may cheer for the team, follow their progress

performance and/or the possibility of relegation may

and celebrate their victories irrespective of whether

negatively affect team support and public morale as

they were actually at the match or not. Team colours,

well as perceptions concerning Taranaki rugby and its

such as amber and black, serve to visibly unify the

contributory ‘value’.

The association of civic pride, reputation and sport is also supported by international research. A US study of residents in Indianapolis discovered that 16

the Indianapolis Colts (an American football team playing in the National Football League) made a critical contribution to their state’s identity and enhanced local pride. More than four-fifths of survey respondents indicated that the Indianapolis Colts were important

region as people focus on the regional parochialism and the sporting pride that unites them instead of the matters that divide them.

“the green onslaught”.

Stadium, may also prove more significant in provinces

important in contributing to feelings of pride about

and the feel good factor. These have a public value.

Auckland. Taranaki confronts more significant risks in

living in Indiana.

Successes or failures on the field can feed into the

terms of population decline and has to fight harder to

collective morale. When Taranaki rugby does well

be recognised as a location of lifestyle choice. Auckland,

there is regional elation. And whilst winning may

conversely, has the size and critical mass such that it

not be everything, it is never-the-less important and

does not face the same perception challenges. The role

contributes to the momentum associated with ongoing

of rugby in terms of its contribution to pride, reputation

team attachment.

and collective self-esteem therefore differs between

range of communities with professional baseball teams about benefits derived from the sport. Participant responses highlighted the entertainment it provided for residents (98.9 percent), contribution to community

These notions are supported by international research.

identity (84.2 percent), economic benefits (83.2 percent),

For example, studies of basketball and baseball fans

regional prestige (82.1 percent), civic pride (77.9

have discovered that team attachment boosted the

percent) and its role in helping to attract residents to

self-esteem and positive emotions of supporters.18

opposition by calling on their ‘heart’ as well as their passion and energy. The Irish became known as

such as Taranaki than, for example, regions such as

Another US survey undertaken by the International

as the rugby underdogs who then confronted the

first division rugby team, and venues such as Yarrow

Rugby is emotional, and winning contributes to morale

City Management Association asked residents from a

national team was frequently publicly positioned

The intangible benefits which flow from having a

to the state’s identity and were somewhat or very

17

An analysis of Irish rugby20 discovered that their

regions and is arguably more significant in regions

Whilst formal studies of Taranaki have not been undertaken, undoubtedly Taranaki rugby would also be viewed in certain ways, and be inextricably linked with Taranaki’s identity. This may include, for example, the ability for Taranaki to punch above its weight, the toughness, no frills approach - having a background of milking cows in the morning and playing rugby in the afternoon - the ups and downs in terms of successes but having the resilience and capability of bouncing back.

such as Taranaki.

their communities (72.6 percent).

Photos courtesy of Taranaki Daily News 16

Rosentraub, M., & Swindell, D. (2005). The value of the Indianapolis Colts to Indiana Residents and Their Willingness to Pay for a New Stadium: Private consultancy report. 17

Johnson, B., Groothuis, P., & Whitehead, J. (2001). The value of Public Goods Generated by a Major League Sports Team: The CVM Approach. Journal of Sports Economics, 2(6), 6-21.

30

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

18

Branscombe, N., & Wann, D. (1991). The Positive Social and Self Concept Consequences of Sports team identification. Journal of Sport and Social Issues, 15 (2), 115-127

19

Crompton, J. (2004). Beyond Economic Impact. An alternative rationale for public sector subsidy of major league sports facilities. Journal of Sports Management, 18, 40-58.

20

Tuck, J (2003). Making Sense of Emerald: Rugby Union, National Identity and Ireland. Identities, 10 (4), 495-515.

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

31


Figure 5.1. Rugby around the mountain 3

Map shows locations in Taranaki with at least 20 registered rugby players, referees, coaches and

Smaller towns in particular are able to rally around their

Coaches and administrators develop an improved

local rugby team. Rugby becomes a central focus in

understanding of management and administration

communities across the region, as shown in Figure 5.1.

techniques that can be applied in the business world

The map shows almost all towns in Taranaki with

administrative staff.

Urenui

Waitara Bell Block New Plymouth 3A

Oakura

at least 20 registered rugby players, referees, coaches

Sir Wilson Whineray and David Kirk are obvious

and administrative staff / volunteers. Rugby is played

examples nationally. Ross Brown, Graham Mourie,

and supported throughout the region, with clubs at

Dave Loveridge, Kieran Crowley, and the Slater

regular intervals around the mountain. Patea

brothers, Andy and Gordon, are all examples of local

(132 registered) and Waverley (32 registered) to the

rugby players at the highest level, who have gone

south-east of Hawera, and Urenui (58 registered) to

on to succeed in leadership positions, or been major

the east of Waitara, also have significant numbers

contributors to their communities once their playing

of registered players, coaches, referees and

days were over. Their involvement in rugby is likely to

administrators / volunteers.

have been a major factor in allowing them to contribute

3

Communities such as Inglewood have invested

Inglewood

Okato

43

facilities, but also local pride in the performance of ‘their’ rugby team.

Mt Taranaki

Toko Stratford

Rahotu Kaponga

Eltham

Opunake Okaiawa

3

Normanby

Manaia Hawera

Patea Waverley

at the level they have.

significantly in rugby in their community, and reaped rewards in terms of both improved public

Pungarehu

and in the community.

5.2 Increasing skills, employment and economic prosperity

Sir Wilson Whineray Sir Wilson Whineray has led the nation on rugby grounds, in business, and across the community. Wilson Whineray played 32 tests for the All Blacks, including 30 as captain, between 1957 and 1965. He

Many of the skills needed in the workplace can be

was awarded an OBE in 1963, and was New Zealand

directly learned from involvement in rugby. Rugby

Sportsman of the Year in 1965.

does this by instilling discipline, promoting teamwork, developing leadership, and growing management skills

He is an excellent example of a player who has applied

on and off the field.

his leadership and teamwork skills outside of rugby. After gaining an MBA from Harvard Business School,

Players undergo physical and mental training to prepare

he went on to hold several high-level positions in the

their bodies. In order to excel, discipline is required, a

business world. These include administering the Hillary

skill that can be directly applied to their working lives.

Commission and chairing the board of Carter Holt Harvey.

Teamwork is essential to succeed, and this improves

In answer to a question on who taught him to lead, Sir

the ability of players of every age to work with others.

Wilson Whineray stated “I had a huge amount of help

This is invaluable in the business setting, and is likely

through my term as captain of the All Blacks team, which

to result in more successful work relationships and

I did for about eight years. At the time I thought I was

therefore productivity.

a pretty average kind of captain, but as you go on and

Players placed in captaincy positions, as well as coaching and refereeing volunteers, gain valuable leadership experience that can be applied to the working world.

learn from experience, the mistakes, you learn from them and how to improve. By the time I finished I was a useful captain, largely because there was nothing that could happen on the field that I hadn’t had to deal with in an earlier game.”

32

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

33


5.3 Improving health and reducing health inequalities

Males account for more than 90 percent of registered

However, male residents of the Taranaki region are far

Rugby can play a major role in improving the health of

players, coaches, referees and administrators /

more active than the national average, as shown

Maori males in particular. A report by BERL highlighted

volunteers in the region. Nearly 42 percent of Maori

in Figure 5.3.

the health inequalities faced by Maori in New Zealand

Rugby plays a role in improving fitness and thus overall

and 24 percent of non-Maori males in Taranaki were

health, particularly amongst under-35s and Maori.

classified obese in 2007, compared with 39 percent and

In the light of rising obesity rates across the country,

23 percent respectively at a national level.

rugby plays a major role in reducing inactivity.

Nearly 70 percent of Maori and 63 percent of non-Maori in Taranaki have active lifestyles. This compares with 61 percent and 54 percent respectively at a national level.

in general and in Taranaki.21 These health inequalities include higher prevalence of obesity and lower rates of general health.

Rugby is likely to play a major part in these figures,

As Figure 5.2 shows, obesity is a major issue in

given the high participation rates in the sport

New Zealand, and even more so in Taranaki, suggesting

in Taranaki.

a need for even greater participation in sport.

Figure 5.3. Active lifestyle rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2007

50

Age-standardised active rate Per 100

Age-standardised obesity rate Per 100

Figure 5.2. Obesity rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2007

40

30

20

10

0

Maori Male Taranaki New Zealand

75

60

45

30

15

0

Non-Maori Male

Maori Male Taranaki

Ethnicity

New Zealand

Non-Maori Male

Ethnicity Source: New Zealand Health Survey 06/07

Source: New Zealand Health Survey 06/07

21

Maori in the Taranaki Region: A Socio-Economic Profile, BERL, 2008

34

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

35


Figure 5.4. Maori share of Taranaki population and registrations, 2008 25

5.4 Reducing anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime

District also includes some larger towns such as Hawera

By providing a healthy, structured, regular activity for

significantly lower than the national average of 1,004.

young people, rugby provides a positive alternative to anti-social behaviour that often occurs when such

20

alternatives are absent.

15

10

(population: 7,720) and Stratford (population: 5,340). However, the overall rate for Taranaki, at 938, was

There will be a variety of factors behind these differences. Nevertheless, numerous studies have shown a strong link between participation in sport and reduced

Figure 5.5 shows the average number of recorded

crime and anti-social behaviour.22 The participation in

offences per 10,000 residents for Taranaki and

rugby in Taranaki very likely plays a substantial role in

New Zealand in 2008.

providing a positive alternative to anti-social behaviour.

The New Plymouth Police District, with almost two-

22

thirds of the Region’s population, had a recorded offence rate of 1,010/10,000 in 2008. For the Taranaki

See for example Sport, Physical Activity and Antisocial Behaviour in Youth, Australian Institute of Criminology, 2003, which documents a large number of these studies.

Rural Police District, the rate was 784/10,000. This is in

5

line with national trends where rural areas tend to have lower crime rates although the Taranaki Rural Police

0

Population

Registrations

Figure 5.5. Offence rates, Taranaki and New Zealand, 2008

Source: New Zealand Health Survey 06/07 TRFU

Figure 5.4 shows the share of population and rugby

It is acknowledged that as you move from non-

registrations for Maori.

competitive exercise to competitive sport, and from

While Maori males account for 14.5 percent of all males in Taranaki, they account for 20.7 percent of male rugby players in the region. Rugby thus offers an opportunity to overcome significant health inequalities by improving general health and lowering obesity levels among Maori males, who tend to participate more in the sport.

non-contact to contact sport, health ‘costs’, in the form of injuries, begin to increase (Waddington et al). However, at both a national and a regional level, programmes are in place to reduce the number and intensity of injuries. These include changes to the rules of the game, for example, scrummaging. Further, in 2008, the ACC levies paid by professional rugby players were $8.26 for every $100 of payroll. This is well above the average ACC levy for office administration positions of around $1.70 per $100.

Recorded offences / 10,000 population

1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0

New Plymouth

Taranaki Rural

Taranaki Total

New Zealand

Source: New Zealand Police

36

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

37


6 Taranaki rugby scenarios Figure 5.6. Cost of crime by category, 2003/04 10,000

2003/04 $ per crime

8,000

6,000

As noted at the beginning of this report, there is significant potential for changes in the global, New Zealand, and therefore Taranaki rugby environment in the short to medium term. The change in Southern Hemisphere rugby is being precipitated by several factors: • The expiry of the South Africa New Zealand Australia Rugby (SANZAR) broadcasting arrangement with News Limited at the end of 2011.

4,000 • The issues of financial sustainability in rugby in New Zealand and Australia.

2,000

• The challenges around player work load and the high number of games currently played by

0

professional players. Violent offences

Burglary

Drug offences

Property damage

Theft

Average (all crime)

Source: New Zealand Treasury

• The issue of endeavouring to create an international

The NZRU have determined criteria for participation that covers all of the organisational activities for provincial unions, and assigned weightings to the following areas: • financial position and performance • community rugby • playing history – on field performance • player development and • population. Currently, the TRFU ranks seventh out of the fourteen unions in ANZC against this criteria. This is a positive ranking considering that the Union ranks lowly on factors of population and community rugby. A significant proportion of this latter weighting is aligned to player numbers, which is obviously closely linked to population, and where TRFU has limited

playing window to unify the game more between

ability to control. The TRFU scores very well on financial

Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

position and performance, and moderately well in

Domestically, there are discussions currently being

playing history and player development.

held about the status of competitions. It was recently

The challenge for TRFU is to ensure it has sufficient

The average cost per crime in New Zealand was

Along with other team sports, rugby has been linked to

announced that Super Rugby will expand to 15 teams in

support to maintain and improve on this ranking. The

estimated at $5,100 in 2003/04.23 The range of costs

encouraging a drinking culture in New Zealand. This is

2011 and be played from late February to the first week

TRFU has spent considerable time analysing where it can

by selected crime type is summarised in Figure 5.6.

also the case internationally. While this is an issue, it is

in August. This suggests that the ANZC competition will

improve in the rankings and is working hard to achieve

one that is acknowledged and being addressed by rugby

be played from August to November.

against the criteria.

Other potential developments include the non-

Assessment against the criteria25 is made annually,

have costs of between $1,300 and $8,910 per crime.

participation of All Blacks in the ANZC and the pressure,

and the ranking of provincial unions is based on an

Even a small number of these crimes prevented by

primarily because of financial sustainability of some

assessment period of three years retrospectively.

participation in sport are thus likely to have a

provincial unions, to reduce the number of teams in the

significant economic saving to the community.

competition. The potential reduction in the number of

Offences typically associated with anti-social behaviour, such as violent offences, property damage, or theft,

administrations, particularly at the professional level.24

teams is obviously a critical issue for TRFU.

Taranaki’s current ranking in no way guarantees a place in the future ANZC. The rankings are constantly reviewed and Taranaki, as one of the smallest unions, must constantly perform against the criteria to ensure it remains in the top flight of New Zealand provincial rugby.

24

23

Estimating the costs of crime in New Zealand in 2003/04, New Zealand Treasury, 2004.

38

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The TRFU has an alcohol management policy. Furthermore, in conjunction with NZRU and NZ Rugby Players Association the TRFU delivers and hosts programmes and seminars on issues surrounding sport and alcohol and more broadly the impact of alcohol.

25

The Air New Zealand Cup Assessment Criteria is included in the Appendix.

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

39


With change in the New Zealand rugby structure likely,

These principles have sent a strong indication that there

At a grass-roots level, the loss of incentive to play

there are three hypothetical scenarios presented for

will be a reduction in the number of teams in the ANZC

school and club rugby with the goal of one day playing

TRFU to be potentially involved with over the next two

as early as 2010. At this time there is a strong suggestion

for the Taranaki ANZC rugby team would likely cut

to five years. These are:

that ten teams will compete in this competition and

participation rates. In this scenario we have used a

that four teams will be eliminated. This has very

conservative estimate of a 10 percent reduction in

serious implications for the nine smaller non-franchise

participation at school and club levels.

to the quantitative economic impact highlighted above,

Spectator numbers would likely plummet to between

volunteerism (with fewer club and school teams needing

400 and 500 a game, according to TRFU estimates based

to refereed, for example).

1. the Air New Zealand Cup – essentially the status quo option; 2. the Heartland Championship - essentially the

provincial unions currently in the competition. As earlier noted a range of criteria will be applied by the

relegation of Taranaki from New Zealand’s premier

NZRFU to determine which unions will be relegated and

competition and from professional rugby; and

Taranaki will have to compete against these criteria. The quantitative and qualitative value currently associated

3. Super Rugby – in 2011 the Super 14 will be expanded to 15 and further expansion is very likely

with rugby in Taranaki would be seriously affected if Taranaki was to be one of the unions to be removed.

over the next half decade providing opportunities for unions like Taranaki (possibly in conjunction with

The result of any demotion is outlined below as the

other partners) to form additional New Zealand

scenario of participating in Heartland Competition

based franchises.

rugby is considered.

6.1 Scenario 1: The Air New Zealand Cup (ANZC)

6.2 Scenario 2: The Heartland Championship

The quantitative and qualitative benefits of this

With a possible reduction in the number of teams in

scenario have beeen presented in earlier sections

the ANZC, there is potential for the competition below

of this report.

to be structured in a variety of ways. Nevertheless, the standard of rugby currently played at this level, and that

With the expansion of Super Rugby in 2011 to a 15

likely to be played in the future, is significantly below

team, 22 week competition, there is a clear indication

ANZC. The impact of rugby in Taranaki would be altered

from the NZRU, that a window between August and

if the TRFU was relegated to this competition.

October / November will be created for ANZC. A recent meeting in Wellington involving all Air New Zealand

In this scenario, Taranaki region loses its ANZC

Cup Unions agreed to several key principles around the

team, and is instead placed in the amateur

future competition format. These include:

Heartland Championship.

a. A separate window for ANZC from Super and club rugby. b. The involvement of Super 14 players in this competition. c. A full round-robin format with play-offs.

This change would have a significant impact on revenues for the TRFU. Estimates suggest that revenues

As already mentioned, we would expect the loss of an ANZC team to negatively affect the levels of participation at school and club rugby level. In addition the loss of the team would result in lower levels of

on the current Heartland Competition. The region would also host fewer games per year, at around four. The tourism revenue generated from out-of-region

The benefits of sport in general and rugby in particular in Taranaki discussed in section 5 would be reduced

visitors would fall dramatically.

as participation fell. Rugby’s positive role in regional

Table 6.1 shows the likely change in economic impact in

diminished. The development of broad-use skills,

the Region should it lose its NPC team.

improved health outcomes, lower levels of anti-social

promotion and identity would be significantly

behaviour and crime, and increased sense of community

Table 6.1 Heartland scenario economic impact of rugby in the Region

that rugby encourages would suffer.

6.3 Scenario 3: Super Rugby

Heartland

In this scenario, the Region receives a franchise in an

Economic impact

Direct

Total

Current total

Output ($m)

$2.93

$4.57

$11.91

Quantitative economic impact

GDP ($m)

$1.67

$2.62

$7.43

The TRFU estimates that promotion to a Super Rugby

Employment (FTEs)

41.0

58.0

135.5

Source: BERL

be a 62 percent fall. GDP would likely fall by 65 percent, and employment by 57 percent.

expanded Super Rugby competition.

franchise would boost revenues to between $10 million and $15 million a year. The number of directly contracted players would rise from the current 43

The total impact on output (revenue) in the Region will

Quantitative economic impact

Qualitative economic impact

to around 70. Participation at grass-roots level is likely to be stimulated as residents see their local team playing in the southern hemisphere’s premier rugby tournament. We estimate that club and school rugby participation is likely to grow by around 15 percent.

would fall from the current $4.2 million, to around $500,000 a year. Direct full-time employment at the TRFU would decline even more heavily, from 43 to

d. A 10 – 12 week long competition.

three FTEs. Because the TRFU is the largest contributor to ongoing quantitative economic impact, this would reduce the total impact on the economy drastically.

40

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

41


An expanded Super Rugby tournament (say to 16

Total revenue is likely to rise 157 percent, to $30.6

teams) would see at least seven games a season played

million a year. GDP is expected to increase 160 percent,

in Taranaki, with an average attendance of 17,000. In

while employment will rise by 72 percent.

addition to out-of-region visitors, who would account for around 10 percent of spectators, there would be

Qualitative economic impact

significant numbers of visitors from Australia and South

The qualitative economic impacts of a promotion

Africa. One would expect the numbers of visitors from

to Super Rugby level will be the inverse of those

Australia to be higher than those from South Africa,

if the region were to be relegated to the

given the relative distances and ease of travel. We

Heartland Championship.

6.4 Summary of scenarios Figure 6.1 compares the quantitative contributions of the three scenarios to the GDP of the Taranaki economy. It does not include the qualitative impacts of any of the three scenarios.

Figure 6.1. Contribution of scenarios to Taranaki GDP

conservatively estimate that 2.5 percent of spectators at each Super Rugby game would be from outside

Increased exposure to the higher quality of play that

New Zealand.

characterises Super Rugby is likely to encourage more

20

residents to take up the sport, as discussed above. The result is expected to be improved development

in the Region are summarised in Table 6.2.

of broad-use skills, better health outcomes and lower health inequalities, reduced anti-social and

Table 6.2 Super Rugby scenario economic impact of rugby in the Region

criminal behaviour, and even greater cohesion within communities.

15

GDP, $m

The resultant changes in the economic impact of rugby

Super Rugby

10

Super Rugby Economic impact

Direct

Total

Current total

Output ($m)

$19.61

$30.59

$11.91

GDP ($m)

$11.29

$19.31

$7.43

Employment (FTEs)

163.3

232.6

135.5

5

National Provincial Championship Heartland Rugby

0 Source: BERL

Source: BERL

42

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

43


7 Conclusions This report presents an economic impact analysis of rugby in Taranaki including commentary beyond the quantifiable numbers generated from economic activity. While the quantitative economic benefits are very significant, the report also identifies the value of rugby to the Taranaki region to be far greater than just the number of jobs created and the revenue and GDP generated for the region. The analysis shows that rugby contributes at least $7.4 million to regional GDP and employs 135 FTEs annually. It also generates one-off impacts, such as through Super

Rugby engages at a range of levels from Saturday

The broad range of significant community benefits

Questions that could frame this future focus

schoolboy rugby, through to the senior club

from rugby suggests a role for public support as well

may include:

competition, the amber and black, Ferdie the bull,

as an opportunity for corporate sponsors to achieve

and Taranaki’s representation in the Super 14 and

community based outcomes from their contributions.

the All Blacks. Taranaki is synonymous with rugby in New Zealand.

Rugby is going through a period of change, both at a local level (where a number of other activities now

• How has rugby been used to add value to regional development initiatives? • Are there opportunities to maximise our investments even more?

The fact that Taranaki can continue to compete with the

compete with rugby) and at a global level (with the

larger provinces, continually punching above its weight,

future status of professional rugby competitions being

gives the region a sense of purpose and achievement.

uncertain). The scenarios suggest that the region needs

the broader picture of regional marketing

Further, given Taranaki can host an event such an

to position itself to protect the current value rugby

and branding?

All Blacks game and do it extremely well is also very

offers Taranaki but to also ensure the sport is well

positive for the community. The fact that Taranaki was

positioned in the medium term to take advantage

able to secure three matches for RWC 2011 is testament

of possible opportunities that may arise due to the

events provide? And are these being recognised

of how the region and TRFU is perceived, and how the

imminent restructuring of the game.

and exploited?

region embraces rugby.

Investigating the quantitative and qualitative value of

• Has Taranaki rugby been used to its best effect within

• What business opportunities do Taranaki rugby

• Are initiatives such as venue construction and

Rugby and one-off tests, with the value of a game

The benefits of the sport go much further than the

rugby to Taranaki provides a basis for a business case

utilisation, as well as sporting events being

contributing from $400,000 through to $1.2 million to

economics, culture and identity. By developing a range

for stakeholders, investors and the region to continue

considered in the broader picture of District planning

regional GDP.

of broad-use skills, the sport is preparing leaders for the

and/or consider supporting rugby. It explains why and

and amenity use?

future. Through physical activity, it is increasing health,

how ensuring a high performing, successful rugby team

and helping to overcome health inequalities particularly

should be aligned to regional development objectives.

Rugby also enables crucial infrastructure, such as Yarrow Stadium. Yarrow Stadium allows Taranaki to host a number of sporting events other than rugby. It played a key role in Taranaki’s bid to host RWC 2011 games. Having a stadium that can host international events also signals the relevance of Taranaki in a national context. Rugby has, and continues to play, a crucial role in the fabric and development of Taranaki society. It is one of the foundations of Taranaki’s identity and culture. Rugby instils a sense of pride, and acts as a rallying point for communities at a regional and at a local level.

for Maori. By giving youth a positive alternative to antisocial and criminal activity, it is making Taranaki a safer place to live.

• Can successes and relationships fostered within Taranaki rugby be leveraged even more? For

This report has predominantly focused on ‘outcomes’.

example, via linkages with broader initiatives such

Critical questions that should also be addressed by civic

as export development, business relationships, youth

leaders and investors should be whether rugby is being

enterprise and leadership.

For some, the most important role for rugby in the

used to its best effect in the region. This focus becomes

region is the part it plays in making Taranaki a more

even more timely and pertinent given the recent

attractive place to live. The existence of a professional

RWC 2011 announcement and the opportunities that

sports team in the region raises regional profile and

Taranaki could leverage - not only for the sport, but also

effectively puts it at a different level of places to live

for regional development.

We recommend that a review and action plan be developed by 2011.

across New Zealand. Rugby is consistent with the efforts of the region to develop a distinctive culture “like no other” that will attract people to visit and to live.

44

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

45


8 References Crompton, John (2004). Beyond Economic Impact:

Pistoll and Associates (2005). Stakeholder Telephone

An alternative Rationale for the Public Subsidy of Major

Interviews. Research Report for TRFU.

League Sports Facilities. Journal of Sport management, 2004, 18, p40-58. Deloitte (2006). Economic Benefits of Jade Stadium Development. A Report commissioned by Jade Stadium Ltd. Deloitte (2008). Potential Economic Impact of the Rugby World Cup on a Host Nation. A Report commissioned by the International Rugby Board. Horwarth Asia Pacific Ltd (2006). Estimated Economic Impact of the 2011 Rugby World Cup. A Report to RWC 2011 Establishment Board.

Roper, Tim & Thompson, A. (2006). Estimating the costs of crime in New Zealand in 2003/04. New Zealand Treasury working paper 06/04. Sport Taranaki (2006). Regional Sport and Physical Activity Strategy 2006 – 2011. A report developed by Sport Taranaki. Statistics New Zealand (2008). Quarterly Employment Survey: June 2008 quarter. Statistics New Zealand: Hot of the Press. Times Online (17 November 2005). The Times Interview – Sir Wilson Whineray, Explain yourself to PJ Taylor.

Key Research Ltd. (2007). Taranaki Sport and Recreation

Accessed on 15/04/09 from www.times.co.nz/cms/news/

Needs Assessment: A survey of Sport, Recreation and

interview/2005/11/printer_art10009316.php

Physical Activity in the Taranaki Region 2006/2007. Leung-Wai, Jason, Sanderson, K. (2008). Māori in the Taranaki Region: A Socio-Economic Profile. BERL report to the Taranaki District Health Board. Morris L, Sallybanks J, Willis K, Makkai T, (2003). Sport, physical activity and antisocial behaviour in youth. Canberra: Australian Institute of Criminology. Nelson Mail. (08/04/2009). Cup set to bring in $14m Report assesses impact. Accessed on 09/04/2009 from www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/2323671/Cup-set-tobring-in-14m-Report-assesses-impact.

Tourism Research Council (2008). Forecasts of Regional Tourism Activity in New Zealand by Year 2007-2013. Tuck, J (2003). Making Sense of Emerald: Rugby Union, National Identity and Ireland. Identities, 10 (4), 495-515. Venture Taranaki (2004). Economic Impact of Hurricanes v Sharks Super 12 Rugby. A Report to Venture Taranaki and Taranaki Rugby Football Union. Waddington, Ivan. Malcolm, D. and Green, K. (1997). Sport, Health and Physical Education: A Reconsideration. European Physical Education Review. Vol 3, No. 2, pp 165-182.

New Plymouth District Council (2009). Long term Council Community Plans (2009/2019).

All work is done, and services rendered at the request of, and for the purposes of the client only. Neither Venture Taranaki, TRFU or BERL nor any of its employees accepts any responsibility on any grounds whatsoever, including negligence, to any other person. While every effort is made by Venture Taranaki, TRFU and BERL to ensure that the information, opinions and forecasts provided to the client are accurate and reliable, Venture Taranaki, TRFU and BERL shall not be liable for any adverse consequences of the client’s decisions made in reliance of any report provided by these organisations, nor shall Venture Taranaki, TRFU or BERL be held to have given or implied any warranty as to whether any report provided by Venture Taranaki, TRFU or BERL will assist in the performance of the client’s functions.

46

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

47


9 Appendix NZRU Criteria for Air New Zealand Cup Criteria

Financial position and performance

Weighting

30%

Measure

Criteria

The audited financial statements for each year of the assessment period will be used to perform the calculations set out below. The calculation will be performed for each individual year and then the average score will be calculated across the assessment period.

Playing history

Weighting

20%

• 10% on liquidity; to be assessed on the following basis: - working capital ratio (with a minimum ratio of 1.25); - quick asset ratio (with a minimum ratio fo 1; - cash in bank (with minimum level of $250,000)

The 14 Provincial Unions will be ranked according to their average round robin over the assessment period. The 20% will be awarded on a sliding scale so that: • The highest ranking Provincial Union over the assessment period receives the full 20% available; • The next highest ranking Provincial Union recieves 1.5% less and so on with the lowest Union receiving 0.5%

• 10% on the net profit before any club distributions; to be assessed on whether the Provinvial Union reported a net profit in each year; • 5% on equity; to be assessed on the following basis: - actual equity as a dollar value (with a minimum of $750,000); and - equity ration (with a minimum ratio of 50%)

Measure

Player development

15%

The following criteria will be used to rank Provincial Unions on player training and development: • 5% on the number of players aligned to that Provincial Union (in the year of selection) selected to any of the New Zealand Secondary Schools, U-19’s, U-21’s, Seven’s, Māori, Junion All Blacks and All Blacks during the assessment period. • 5% on the number of players aligned to that Provincial Union (in the year of selection) selected to a Rebel Sport Super 14 initial squad or Wider Training Group during the assessment period;

• 5% on debt servicing; to be assessed on the basis of a Provincial Union’s debt servicing ratio (with a minimum ratio of 2) in each year

For the two separate 5% measures outlined above, the total number of players over the relevant years will translate into a percentage score in each measure using the following banding system:

Community rugby

25%

The official NZRU registration figures will be used for each year of the assessment period to perform the calcultations as set out below. The calculation methods set out below will be used for each measure and this will then be translated into a score out of the maximum of 25% for the assessment period. • 11% - Total Registered Player Numbers in each year (this is all players male and female regardless of age);

0 - 10

0%

11 - 20

0.5%

21 - 30

1%

31 - 40

1.5%

0 - 2,999

0%

3,000 - 3,999

1%

41 - 50

2%

4,000 - 4,999

2%

51 - 60

2.5%

5,000 - 5,999

3%

61 - 70

3%

6,000 - 6,999

4%

7,000 - 7,999

5%

71 - 80

3.5%

8,000 - 8,999

6%

91 - 90

4%

9,000 - 9,999

7%

91 - 100

4.5%

10,000 - 10,999

8%

101 +

5%

11,000 - 11,999

9%

12,000 - 12,999

10%

13,000 +

11%

• 2% - Percentage increase in Player Numbers ages 13 years or under in each year

<0 0

1-3 1

4+ 2

• 2% - Percentage increase in Player Numbers ages 14 years or over in each year

<0 0

1-2 1

3+ 2

• 2% - Player retention rate in each year;

<55 0

57 - 65 1

66+ 2

• 2% - Player to coach ratio in each year;

>22 0

15 - 21 1

14 or less 2

Population

10%

This is the only measure that will be performed at a point in time as opposed to over the assessment period. The most recent Statistics New Zealand information will be used to calculate the population based on Provincial Union boundaries (at this point the NZRU has 2008 projected population figures). The same banding system that was applied during 2008 will be used so that the up to 10% will be allocated as follows: • 10% - 350,000+ • 9% - 300,000 to 349,999 • 8% - 250,000 to 299,999 • 7% - 200,000 to 249,999 • 6% - 150,000 to 199,999 • 5% - 100,000 to 149,999 • 4% - 80,000 to 99,999 • 3% - 60,000 to 79,999 • 2% - 40,000 to 59,999 • 1% - 20,000 to 39,999 • 0% - <20,000

• 2% - Coach retention rate in each year;

<50 0

51 - 63 1

64+ 2

• 2% - Referee retention rate in each year;

<75 0

48

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

76 - 89 1

90+ 2

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

49


Photos courtesy of Taranaki Daily News

1965

2008

Taranaki vs South Africa

All Blacks vs Manu Samoa

The future

?


Taranaki’s Regional Development Agency

Taranaki Rugby Football Union (INC)

9 Robe Street, PO Box 670 New Plymouth 4340, New Zealand

Yarrow Stadium, Maratahu Street, PO Box 5004, New Plymouth, New Zealand Tel: +64 6 759 0167 Fax: +64 6 757 3859

Tel: +64 6 759 5150 Fax: +64 6 759 5154 Email: info@venture.org.nz

www.taranaki.info

52

The value of rugby to Taranaki 2009

www.trfu.co.nz


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