New Zealand Sports Academy harnesses the natural talent of young rugby players in a cultural environment that encourages every player to realise their potential, both on and off the rugby field

TESTIMONIAL

"I spent three months at the NZSA and it was the best experience ever. If any rugby player wants to improve their skills, technique and fitness level this is the place to be.  Living rugby is what it is all about, in a professional environment with support and guidance from the best coaches and performance trainers. The NZSA is based in Rotorua, in the heart of the Bay of Plenty. There is a challenging rugby competition for every level. Being with the boys at the academy, I had a great time, training everyday and at night training with our clubs. In the weekend we came across each other in club rugby which made it even more exciting. The academy has their own teams too, training at the academy every day with the same guys made our team really strong and during my time at the academy, we hadn’t lost a game."

DUNCAN JANSEN (20) NETHERLANDS

Frequently asked questions

What is the climate in New Zealand?
The warmest months are December to February and the coolest are June to August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68-86F) and in winter between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius (50-59F). For more information about regional climates, click here.
 
When does the rugby season start?
Pre-season games start in February and the season usually runs from March to August.
 
How fit should I be?
The fitter you are the easier it will be to concentrate on your rugby skills, however we do provide a full strength and conditioning programme.
 
What shall I bring?
You will receive a training kit, but please bring extra training gear, wet weather gear, running shoes, rugby boots (customs require these be free of any soil), along with black dress trousers and black dress shoes for formal occasions.
You may also need a power adapter and high SPF UVA/UVB sunscreen. New Zealand’s UV rays are very harsh, even on cloudy summer days and sunny days in winter.
 
Will my mobile phone work?
While your own mobile phone will likely work, international roaming costs can be very expensive here, so we recommend you buy a prepaid sim card once you arrive (usually about NZ$10-20).

Accommodation and meals
We have a range of home-stay options and your host family will provide you with breakfast, lunch and dinner each day.
Insurance
Any injuries suffered outside Academy will need to be covered by your own insurance. Travel insurance is NOT covered in your programme cost. Please ensure that you make appropriate arrangements for your personal insurance before arriving in New Zealand. Any visits for injuries to a physiotherapist covered by ACC will cost $25 for the first visit then $20 per visit thereafter. Non ACC treatments will cost $55 for the first visit and $50 thereafter.
 
When you arrive
We recommend that when booking flights, you book for your flight to arrive into Rotorua airport, where possible. That said, we can arrange a shuttle to transfer you from Auckland Airport to Rotorua. However, it is a 3½ hour shuttle journey, as opposed to a 45 minute flight. You may also have to wait for other shuttle passengers. Please ensure that your flight details are provided as soon as possible so we can make the appropriate arrangements for your arrival and departure.
 
Money matters
The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar. To convert currencies visit www.xe.com/ucc
 
Getting around
The academy is based in Neil Hunt Park, Rotorua, where the city centre is less than 5km away. Most homestays are within walking distance to the park and on local bus routes. Rotorua bus schedules can be found by clicking here.