In the Hawke’s Bay region, material damage was extensive: several rivers burst their banks, and floodwaters washed away bridges, roads and homes. Rising waters and power outages led to the evacuation of more than 9,000 people, and eight residents of the area were found dead.
With their homes and school destroyed, the parents of the two boys decided to hand them over to Havelock North, south of the bay, so they wouldn’t be alone during the ordeal.
Since the Hurricanes, Ollie and Payton have played on the same rugby team, having played for rival clubs in the past.
That close bond between the two friends, as well as the bond of solidarity they formed with other teammates on the field, was vital to their rebuilding after the trauma of the Hurricanes.
These young rugby fans are sure not to miss any All Blacks match on TV, especially Hawke’s Bay local star Brody Redalick, in his quest for a fourth World Cup title. World of France.
New Zealanders, who were knocked out in the semi-finals at the hands of England four years ago, will take on hosts France on September 8 in their first match of the 2023 World Cup to test their litmus test since their debut in the tournament. They will then play against Namibia and Italy before finishing the first leg against Uruguay.
New Zealand, who have consistently qualified for the semi-finals of the World Cup in the nine editions played since its formation in 1987, could face either defending world champions South Africa or Ireland’s first team Ireland in the quarter-finals. World Rugby Rankings and Grand Slam winner of the last Six Nations tournament.
A few weeks before the 2023 Men’s Rugby World Cup in France, Agence France-Presse (AFP) has asked 20 young photographers, representatives from each of the qualifying nations, to show an aspect of local rugby culture alongside the canon. From Namibia to Fiji, via Georgia or Chile, these statements are meant to explain rugby’s values.
“Typical beer advocate. Future teen idol. Unapologetic tv practitioner. Music trailblazer.”