SETTLEMENT OF RUGBY BOUNDARY DISPUTE

Wanganui Chronicle, 7 October 1950, Page 6

SETTLEMENT OF RUGBY BOUNDARY DISPUTE

Part Of Manawatu Union Now In Wanganui Rugby players living in portions of the Manawatu Ragby Union’s area on that side of the Rangitikei River, within certain areas in dispute between Wanganui and Manawatu. will now be permitted to play in the Wanganui district, either in the Rangitikei or Taihape Unions. This is the effect of a decision given by a commissioner appointed by the New Zealand Rugby Union (Mr N. A. McKenzie, of Hawke’s Bay), which will widen the Wanganui Rugby Union’s district to areas on the Manawatu side of the Rangitikei River.

During the season just ended a dispute arose between the Manawatu and Wanganui Rugby Unions regarding these players. Wanganui sought a special dispensation to enable them to play in the Wanganui Union, but Manawatu objected. As a result the dispute was referred to the New Zealand Rugby Union, wHich appointed Mr. McKenzie to inspect the localities and adjudicate in the matter. Mr McKenzie’s report was made to the New Zealand Union, has been approved by that body, and has been received in Wanganui. It defines in detail the particular areas and a special map is being prepared to cover those portions in Manawatu which will be embraced by Wanganui. Explaining the effect of the report, yesterday, Mr J. Moye, chairman of the management committee of the Wanganui Union, said that players living some 10 miles out from Ohingaiti, others living out from Mangaweka, and some others domiciled in the Kakariki and Onepuhu areas, will now belong to the Wanganui Union and new boundaries will be drawn up between the two unions. "Mr McKenzie’s decision, which I think will be acceptable to both unions, really covers all those players for whom we sought special dispensations last season,” said Mr. Moye.