Junior Club

Registrations are now open for 2025.

NZR has just launched a new rugby platform called Rugby Xplorer (RX) that will manage all future rugby admin including registrations. You can create your profile using the link below.

Rugby Xplorer

NZR recommends parents to set up profiles for their children, only once they have created their own one. Then, parents can easily act on their behalf.  You only need to set up a profile once, and then you can easily register every year.
Once you have a profile set up you will be able to register each of your children with the Wakatipu Rugby Football Club through your profile page. 
You can also download the RX app and complete the registration process this way:

RX App

Year 1 and 2 children are to register as Junior - Non Contact and Year 3 - 8 children are to register as Junior - Contact.

***IMPORTANT*** If you are keen to be a team coach or manager, email and we will add you to our portal so you get a discount code to register your children free of charge.

Registrations close March 20th. Please make an effort to register as soon as possible and reach out with any questions regarding the new platform. Please share with any friends interested in playing to avoid late registrations so no one misses out.
The season is likely to run from May 3rd to June 28th and more info on pre-season and other key dates will come soon.

We're sure you have some questions about the upcoming season, below you will find lots of information about the club, the season and how to get your child involved. Also please follow us on our socials to stay the most up to date: 

Wakatipu Junior Rugby Club Facebook Page

Wakatipu Junior Rugby Instagram

Wakatipu Rugby Club was formed in 1953 and we have 2 x senior men's teams, senior women's team and approximately 250 junior members playing. We’re always very happy to welcome new players to the club and strive for a positive and inclusive environment.

It’s a great activity for your child and a rewarding one for parents too – watching your child’s team develop and seeing them move through the age groups and grow stronger as a unit and as individuals. 

It is very important to register your child before they play as they will then be covered by the NZRFU insurance scheme. Registration is not complete until subs are paid.

How old?

Players can start as young as 5, and play Rippa Rugby in year groups 1 and 2. Rippa Rugby is a very safe, non-contact, easy to play game for both boys and girls alike. While the rules are simple and the game is easy to learn, Rippa Rugby will promote excellent ball handling and running skills to give all kids a chance to participate in our national game.

Once your child progresses to the year 3 age group they begin tackle rugby. As your child progresses the number of players per team and the field size increases

A lot more information can be found here: Smallblacks.com

Who coaches?

All our coaches are volunteers but have been registered with the New Zealand Rugby Union and have also undertaken a coaching course. We are actively seeking coaches and managers so please get in contact if you can assist this season.

Please contact us directly to sign up as a coach:

How much?

Subs are $75 per player in tackle grades and $50 per player in the Rippa grade.

The subs include your team photo and some club apparel. First time players for Wakatipu also receive an individual kit bag and hoodie that your child will keep. A playing uniform including a jersey and shorts will be provided for the duration of the season.

What does it involve and when does it start? Will there be travel? What about bad weather?

In general we play every Saturday of term 2. Games are throughout the Central Otago district with at least half the games being at home in the Wakatipu Basin. There is a practice once a week at the Events Centre in Frankton on a Thursday, from 4 - 5pm. The draw will be released in the week prior to the first game. Updates on bad weather will be posted on our facebook page 

Wakatipu Junior Rugby Club Facebook Page Wakatipu Junior Rugby Facebook

How can I be involved ?

We are always accepting new coaches, assistants and managers from Rippa through to open grade and would love your help. Your players love positive sideline support, clean uniforms, hot chocolate on those cold days and lots of cheering. 

Please contact us directly to sign up:

What happens next?

If you’re interested, please register and pay for your child using the links above. Gear will not be issued until registration is paid in full. If you wish to apply for the hardship fund and have your child sponsored in confidentiality please contact  

Once your child has registered we will be in touch to let you know your child’s team, coach, and where their games and practices are every week.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the club via our email, we’re always happy to help.