Our Community

More than a game

Rugby league is more than a game — it’s a movement built on connection, identity, and community. Across Aotearoa, we work with clubs, volunteers, and whānau to create spaces where everyone belongs, grows, and thrives.

Eight young NZ talents instrumental in Bulldogs' Lisa Fiaola Cup victory

Meet Rhino, the 15-year-old rugby league referee making waves

The Kiwi Way is our foundation — the values, standards, and spirit that guide how we play, coach, and support one another. It’s about respect, accountability, and pride in who we are, on and off the field.

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

We have a range of initiatives, programmes, and policies in place to support and empower everyone in our rugby league whānau across Aotearoa, from tamariki to adults, whether they are playing, volunteering, supporting, or participating in any other way.

Pirtek Volunteers

Each month, NZRL and Pirtek recognise an outstanding volunteer who lives the Kiwi Way — someone who shows up, gives back, and helps our game thrive. These are the people who keep Rugby League strong in communities across Aotearoa. True strength runs deep.

be a sport

Be a Sport is NZRL’s sideline behaviour programme — helping supporters, parents, and fans create positive, respectful environments for our players to enjoy the game. It’s about backing your team the right way.

Respect and Inclusion

Building a culture where everyone feels seen and valued. We champion respect, equality, and inclusion across every level of our game.

safeguarding

NZRL is committed to creating safe, supportive environments for every child and young person in rugby league. Our Safeguarding Policy sets clear standards for behaviour, care, and accountability — ensuring tamariki and rangatahi can grow, play, and thrive in our game.

Find your front

Find Your Front is a wellbeing storytelling series that shines a light on our high performance players, coaches, and other Kiwis whose journeys reflect resilience and identity. Each episode highlights the importance of and strategies for maintaining good mental health.

WELLBEING SUPPORT

We deliver wellbeing programmes, resources, and self-assessment tools to schools, clubs, teams, and communities across Aotearoa, supporting the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing of our rugby league whānau. Through our delivery partners, we empower rangatahi and adults to strengthen their wellbeing and positively influence their communities.

support services

NZRL partners with trusted wellbeing organisations to provide help for every situation - from mental health to community and family support. This portal connects you to services, hotlines, and tools designed to guide, listen, and walk alongside you. No matter what you’re facing, support is here when you need it.

checking on me

These self-tests will help you figure out whether you’re showing any warning signs of depression or anxiety. Although they won’t give you a diagnosis, they will help point you in the right direction.

If you’re feeling down or miserable a lot of the time start with the depression test, or if you’re feeling on edge and nervous often then try the anxiety test.

LEAGUE 4 LIFE

The League 4 Life Foundation was founded to raise funds and distribute them throughout rugby league where they are needed most, offering assistance to all participants and their families who have fallen on hard times.

Established in 2011, the Foundation has provided financial support for those suffering with long-term injuries, serious illnesses and disabilities. We provide grants to individuals, families and organisations to ensure our community is supported through difficult times.