Ruakura Rugby Football Club was established to bring together 30 proud years of Chiefs Rugby history, uniting the players, staff, and supporters who have shaped one of New Zealand’s most iconic rugby identities.
Over the years, some of New Zealand’s most celebrated rugby names have worn the Chiefs jersey, representing not just a franchise, but a hāpori, a wide and passionate community that spans towns, cities, and generations.
These players have inspired our people, providing a deep sense of pride and whakapapa that extends far beyond the field , reaching into homes, schools, workplaces, and whānau across New Zealand and around the world.
From every corner of New Zealand and around the world, our former players, staff, board members, and shareholders remain connected — like waterways that eventually find their way to the Waikato River. The river is a living symbol of the enduring relationship between Ruakura RFC members and the Chiefs Rugby Club: a shared source of pride, purpose, and legacy that never stops flowing.
"From the start the Chiefs organisation talked about connecting as a group and connecting with the community. So people have always been at the forefront of the Chiefs kaupapa.
Ruakura RFC is a brilliant initiative to carry that on and keep the Chiefs whanau connected beyond our playing days. If our experiences can be used to help and inspire future players, even better."
Eric Rush
