
Media Release: 11 years of service coming to an end
Media Release
17 October 2024
On behalf of the Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union we have accepted Chief Executive Tony Hargood’s resignation after 11 years of service to the rugby union.
Tony had indicated to the board as early as December 2023 he would be advising of his plans during 2024. Tony was appointed as Chief Executive in February 2013 when the WBRU was placed under management by NZRU as the WBRU had found itself to be insolvent.
11 years later Tony leaves the union with a million-dollar balance sheet, annual revenues of $1M+, soon to be announced a record number of registered players since he started in 2013, player pathway programs which has yielded 3 NZ Representatives and a further 5 NZ representatives gaining honours for the NZ Heartland U20 and NZ Heartland XV in 2024 through their respective programs, and administration processes of the highest standard.
Tony has brought innovation to the game with live-streaming, well-being programs (Watch out for Your Mates and Alcohol Awareness), the re-development of Memorial Park with the artificial turf and lights, and more importantly a business model that has provided financial benefits of $250,000+ to its stakeholders and clubs.
Tony will continue in his role until 30 April 2025 to provide the board with a smooth transition up to the 2025 Annual General meeting.
Tony’s reason for resigning was that he felt he had achieved the goals set out and 2025 represented 30 years of being involved in rugby since it turned professional in 1996. Tony does have one final rugby project for 2025 which he will announce details of in the new year to close off his 30 years involvement in the game as a former player, coach, referee, and administrator. It is a nationwide project and one that he has been harbouring for years to complete.
The Board will look to advertise for a replacement in November 2024.
Jason Carruthers
Chair of Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union