Aotearoa Rugby Pod

Picking the All Blacks' match-day 23 for South Africa just got seriously difficult.In this excerpt from the podcast, the panel examines Tupou Vaa'i's impact at blindside flanker, the fight for places in the loose forwards and whether a 6–2 bench could help New Zealand match the Springboks' physicality.They also assess the All Blacks' depth across the field, the growing reliance on Cam Roigard and Ruben Love's remarkably assured start at Test level.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unbeaten in the Nations Championship, the All Blacks and Springboks are now on a collision course for the Greatest Rivalry Tour.Aotearoa Rugby Pod unpacks the All Blacks' impressive 40-21 victory over Ireland and the attacking identity emerging under Dave Rennie. What does “continuity plus brutality” mean, why has New Zealand's ball retention improved, and can its high-tempo approach succeed in South Africa?Plus, the panel analyses the rise of Tupou Vaa'i at blindside, Ardie Savea's captaincy, the All Blacks' improving aerial game and the growing influence of Cam Roigard and Ruben Love.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Audio of ARP's Youtube Live after Dave Rennie's press conference for his team naming v Ireland.Please excuse the audio. We'll upgrade our home microphones soon.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All Blacks lock Tupou Vaa'i joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod ahead of the clash with Ireland at Eden Park.Tupou opens up about becoming one of the All Blacks' biggest on-field menaces and how Brodie Retallick inspired it.He also explains why there is “no hiding anymore” in the new All Blacks regime and how Ireland hooker Dan Sheehan inspired one of his Super Rugby tries.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our weekly Boks Watch segment, as we gear up for the Greatest Rivalry Tour:The Springboks were scratchy but the depth of talent coming through should worry the rest of world rugby..Did Scotland also uncover genuine flaws in the Boks' defensive system or were they able to exploit a few moments of poor execution?Plus, we break down Boan Venter's ridiculous strong-man carry and ask how anyone was supposed to stop it.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Will Jordan already rugby's greatest-ever right winger?With 50 tries from his first 56 tests, the All Blacks finisher is producing unprecedented numbers. We compare Jordan with New Zealand greats John Kirwan, Jeff Wilson and Doug Howlett, along with modern stars Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Penaud.We also break down the latest Nations Championship, including the struggles of the All Blacks and Springboks, France's emphatic win over Australia and the major trends emerging across the competition.Finally, we look ahead to the All Blacks against Ireland at Eden Park and discuss what New Zealand must sharpen up on.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to second of our weekly All Blacks team naming reaction Youtube Lives.This week it's Ross talking the All Blacks v Italy team, including the midfield switch-up and two debutants, as well as answering the questions from the Live comments section.Keep an eye out for the scheduled lives each week.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Greatest Rivalry Tour coming in August, ARP brings you Boks watch, a regular segment dedicating to understanding the All Blacks' greatest foe!This week we talk where England went wrong, whether anyone is better than Damian Willemse, Rassie Erasmus' effect on the maul laws and how halfbacks are running the game worldwide.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All Blacks have their attacking identity back.Dave Rennie's first Test in charge delivered a clear shift in philosophy against France. New Zealand played with more tempo, kept the ball alive and attacked with an optimism that supporters have been craving.Is this the blueprint to beat the Springboks?We also wrap up all the biggest talking points from the opening weekend of the All Nations Championship, including:•

What is the best way for the All Blacks to use Beauden Barrett and Quinn Tupaea?This week we're answering two of the biggest viewer questions following the first Test squad selection.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tana Umaga On How Ardie Inspires & Building Rennie's All BlacksAll Blacks legend Tana Umaga joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod after returning to the national team as defence coach.Tana explains what makes Ardie Savea such an influential leader and how he inspires those around him during the toughest moments. He also takes us behind the scenes of Dave Rennie's first camp, discussing the challenge of bringing a coaching group together from different parts of the world, preparing a Test side in a short timeframe, building relationships with players and developing a game plan to stop France.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few in New Zealand know all the French players and Dave Rennie as well as Brad Weber.Aotearoa Rugby Pod brings in the former All Blacks, Stade Francais and Chiefs halfback to give us the lowdown on both teams before Saturday's first test!.He explains how French rugby thinks, why Bordeaux's systems are likely to shape France's attack this week, and whether the absence of Toulouse's stars—including Antoine Dupont—really changes the contest. The crew also debates the All Blacks midfield combination, Beauden Barrett's role under Rennie, South Africa v England and Australia v Ireland.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yes, it was only the Barbarians.But the performance reinforced a feeling many rugby fans already have: the Springboks' depth of talent is becoming frightening.Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons discuss South Africa's 80-31 win over the Barbarians.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh off the press - the ARP crew breaks down Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad!The 34 man squad, captained by Ardie Savea, includes four new caps, one eyebrow raising inclusion at halfback and the return of a veteran from Japan.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Hurricanes didn't just beat the Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final — they dismantled them.Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall break down why the Hurricanes tore apart the Chiefs and why the visitors couldn't find a way back into the contest.Have the Canes changed the All Blacks selection conversation? Does their style offer a blueprint for the All Blacks?Plus, reaction to South Africa's demolition of the Barbarians and what it tells us about the Springboks ahead of the international season.Don't miss our All Blacks squad announcement special.. dropping 12:15 Monday 22.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi are surely a lock when the All Blacks are named next week. But, our deep dive into the loose forward stats reveal a couple of surprises could be come Monday.Using ARP's Super Rugby Form Statistics Index, which feeds into our Test Selection Index, we assessed every major contender for Dave Rennie's side.Some names will surprise you.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two different styles. One showdown for the Super Rugby title.The Hurricanes have lit up Super Rugby with their width and strike power. The Chiefs have built their season on territory, set-piece and ruthless counter-attack.In this episode, we break down the their philosophies, stats and key match-ups.Plus, don't miss two signed jersey giveaways and a chance to watch the final with us at Sky City.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do the Hurricanes click?Hurricanes centre Billy Proctor joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod ahead of the team's Super Rugby semifinal against the Blues to explain the foundations of their success.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryn Hall reveals how Kubota Spears prepared for the Japan Rugby League One final against Dave Rennie's Kobe Steelers.From opposition analysis and tactical trends to identifying weaknesses, Bryn explains the detail that goes into building a game plan against one of rugby's most respected coaches.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who replaces Scott Barrett?That's the question dominating this week's ARP.With Barrett and Fabian Holland injured, the race for All Blacks locking spots is wide open. Jamie Hannah has emerged as a genuine contender and Sam Darry is pushing hard. Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall debate who should be in Dave Rennie's squad and whether the lock hierarchy has shifted.The team also previews the Super Rugby semifinals, discussing the ominous form of the Crusaders and Hurricanes and whether either side can be stopped from reaching the title decider.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All Blacks front row suddenly isn't as straightforward as it looked a month ago.Fletcher Newell's injury and Tamaiti Williams' absence have opened the door for a new wave of contenders.Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot are sure things, Aotearoa Rugby Pod assess the leading candidates, including top and comers like Xavier Numia.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anton Segner joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod for an in-depth conversation about transforming from a prospect into one of Super Rugby's most influential loose forwards.The Blues flanker discusses bulking up, earning a starting role, his relentless drive for improvement, lessons from Richie McCaw and Kieran Read, his friendship with Crusaders star Leicester Fainga'anuku and the challenge awaiting the Blues in Christchurch this weekend.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Super Rugby Pacific playoffs have arrived, amidst final round chaos.The Hurricanes are top qualifiers despite a heavy loss to the Crusaders, the Chiefs are confident after dismantling the Blues, and the Brumbies are under pressure from a shock defeat to Moana Pasifika. ARP's Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall look at who will win and why.We also get into who should be the All Blacks props and who you'd have with the squad as an apprentice.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The final round of Super Rugby Pacific has plenty to play for.The Hurricanes and Chiefs have secured home finals, but the battle between the Blues, Crusaders and Brumbies for the remaining home playoff spot will help define the finals series. The Aotearoa Rugby Pod crew breakdown how it could play out.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anton Segner is making a serious push for the All Blacks.The Blues openside has emerged as one of Super Rugby Pacific's form loose forwards, combining breakdown menace, defensive work-rate and strong carrying to put himself firmly in Dave Rennie's selection frame. Aotearoa Rugby Pod debates whether Segner deserves an All Blacks call-up, alongside Ardie Savea, and whether his all-round game now makes him impossible to ignore.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Havili is back in the All Blacks conversation.Dropped by Scott Robertson in 2024 and largely forgotten in the midfield debate, the Crusaders captain reminded everyone of his quality with a match-winning display against the Chiefs.The Aotearoa Rugby Pod asks whether the 30-test veteran could force his way back into national selection this season.The crew also dives into:Super Rugby Pacific's tightening top six raceThe teams most likely to surge lateAnd one of the toughest selection calls imaginable:Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is B.I.G.G.A — and why does Dave Rennie value it so highly?Bryn Hall and James Parsons explain “Back In Game, Go Again,” a Dave Rennie work-rate metric that shapes his selections.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Their attack is electric, their defence has tightened, and they're winning games in multiple ways.So the big question is: who can actually stop the Hurricanes, now they most likely have home advantage through the playoffs?There appears to be one major contender and one dark horse.The ARP crew also breaks down the top six contenders with two rounds to go until the playoffs.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Aotearoa Rugby Pod team debates whether Richie Mo'unga should return from Japan and immediately into the All Blacks.Would changing overseas eligibility policies strengthen New Zealand rugby or undermine the system?The crew also unpack B.I.G.G.A, the Dave Rennie work-rate metric and how it could shape future All Blacks selections. Could it make Lucas Casey a great option?Plus, the Hurricanes beating the Blues and James Parsons' tense post-match exchange with Vern Cotter.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Black Ferns and Blues co-captain Ruahei Demant has experienced the other side! A sabbatical to English club Bristol has taught her plenty about rugby in the home of the World Cup champions. She has returned home with new knowledge and a desire to use it to help the Blues defend their Aupiki title.She chats with Aotearoa Rugby Pod about... What she learnt playing for Bristol Bears Women in England's PWRHow overseas rugby challenged and improved her gameThe secrets she learnt about Canada's success What's already changed under new Black Ferns coach Whitney HansenYoung stars Amarante Sititi and Braxton Sorenson-McGeeThe stacked Blues Women squad ahead of their Super Rugby Aupiki defenceA great insight into the growth of the women's game globally and where New Zealand rugby is heading next.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why didn't New Zealand win the Under 20 Rugby Championship — and why did the Baby Boks look so dominant throughout the tournament?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down how South Africa built such a powerful U20 side and discusses NZ prioritising different goals at age-grade level.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All Blacks are stacked with midfield options.Quinn Tupaea is in outstanding form, Billy Proctor is excelling, Timoci Tavatavanawai's becoming impossible to ignore and Leicester Fainga'anuku's causing havoc wherever he plays.So does Jordie Barrett have to shift from 12 back to fullback?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod debates the balance of the All Blacks backline, including Josh Moorby's chances, before getting into who will make the Super Rugby top 6.Later this week .. Under 20s Rugby Championship review + Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant on how English rugby opened her eyes to a different way.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Highlanders keep finding themselves in the fight against top Super Rugby sides — but too often they leave with nothing to show for it.So why does the same story keep repeating for Jamie Joseph's men?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down why the Highlanders are competitive for long stretches, yet continue to lose tight games. Right now, the Highlanders might be Super Rugby's most frustrating team: good enough to push anyone… but unable to consistently finish the job.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All Blacks back three is a big debate heading into the international season.Aotearoa Rugby Pod dives into why Caleb Clarke, Caleb Tangitau and Will Jordan could be the most balanced option — combining power, speed and elite game awareness.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The All Blacks selection picture is tightening and some big calls will need to be made.This episode of the Aotearoa Rugby Pod focuses on the key positional battles at halfback, centre and lock, with Scott Barrett, Noah Hotham and Billy Proctor in the spotlight. The team also breaks down Super Rugby Pacific Round 12, identifying the performances and trends shaping national selection, before discussing the significance of Gilbert Enoka's return to the All Blacks management group.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This isn't just about rugby — it's about raising better young people.New Zealand Under 20s and pathways coach Kane Jury joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod to explain how NZ develops its young athletes — and why parents and coaches play such a critical role in that journey.From preparing for the Rugby Championship and World Championship to teaching life skills off the field, Jury shares why success at the highest level starts long before professional rugby.This is a must-watch for anyone involved in youth sport.In this episode:Why coaching the person matters as much as the playerWhat parents get right — and wrong — in youth sportHow NZ aligns schools, U20s and the All BlacksPreparing young athletes for pressure and setbacks#Rugby #YouthSport #AllBlacks #Parenting #Coaching #NZRugbyCatch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leicester Fainga'anuku's man of the match performance for the Crusaders at open side has everyone talking. But is it the best way to use the hybrid centre/winger?He's an elite player but will it work for the Crusaders against elite Super Rugby opposition, never mind the All Blacks versus the Springboks?This is less about the player, and more about whether the role stacks up under pressure.We also talk Super Round, whether the losers of Golden Point get ripped off on the table and the Black Ferns' first title under Whitney Hansen.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caleb Tangitau and Anton Segner are two names building serious hype.We break down their form and skillsets, then break down the problems with the Blues defence and the Crusaders.

Rugby is evolving — on the field, in the stadium and how fans experience the game.In this Aotearoa Rugby Pod interview, Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley explains how the sport is taking its next step — from faster, more engaging play to a match day experience that goes beyond the 80 minutes.We get into:Evolution of the on-field product The shift towards a bigger in-stadium experienceWhy rugby needs to think differently about entertainmentAnd how fans play a role in what comes nextThe latest on Moana Pasifika's futureRugby's core is strong — but the next level is about how everything around it continues to grow.What would you add to take rugby to the next level?Email your ideas to ARP@Fandommedia.co.nz — we'll take the best ones forward to the powers that be.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moana Pasifika is searching for new financial backing — and it could have major implications for Super Rugby.If they can't secure support, what does that mean for the number of teams, the competition format, and the future of Pacific rugby in the professional game?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down why this moment matters, and why the ripple effects could be felt across the entire competition.Later this week, we speak with Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley to get answers from inside the game.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since leaving the All Blacks, Jason Holland has helped shape Super Rugby's most potent attack at the Hurricanes.In this Aotearoa Rugby Pod interview, Holland breaks down:The key principles behind the Hurricanes' attacking successThe lessons he took from the All Blacks environmentWhy clarity and simplicity are central to performanceAnd how those ideas will carry into his role as Blues head coach

Leinster is starting to get the best out of Rieko Ioane' — at centre or wing.After some early noise around his arrival — from the Johnny Sexton spat to adjustmenting to a new system — it's starting to click.In recent performances against Edinburgh and Sale, Ioane has made a real impact — bringing speed, power, footwork and distribution that can break games open.The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down Ioane's form, why perceptions are shifting, and what it means for Leinster heading into the business end of the season.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did Highlander Henry Bell get headbutted by Nick Frost … and still get penalised?A controversial Super Rugby moment has rugby fans split, after the tackler saw yellow and it's not the first time!So was this the right call — or does rugby has a problem?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks it down, as well as asking if the Canes can be stopped and whether Damian McKenzie is in the Chiefs' top five players of all time.Follow @aotearoarugbypodoffical channels for more breakdowns on the biggest talking points in world rugby.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In August, the All Blacks heading back into one of rugby's toughest challenges - a full tour of South Africa.But this isn't just about Test matches, for the first time in decades, New Zealand will face the unique grind of touring:Midweek matchesTravel and squad rotationAdapting to South African conditionsManaging physical and mental fatigueSo do the modern All Blacks actually have the know-how to handle it?We break down what makes South Africa tours so difficult, why history matters, and whether this current group is ready for the challenge.

Could Codie Taylor be the next All Blacks captain?We deep dive into what makes Taylor such a great player, leader and team mate, then ask whether he's the man for the jobIt's one of the biggest off-field questions in New Zealand rugby right now — and we want your take. Email us on ARP@Fandommedia.co.nz

Where should Leicester Fainga'anuku fit in the All Blacks?It's one of the most fascinating selection questions right now — and there's no obvious answer.We also dive into your suggestions for All Blacks bolters/moneyball players from last week's episode, plus talk Samipeni Finau's epic showing for the Chiefs.

Scotsman Mike Blair is the man Dave Rennie has tasked with rebuilding what used to be the most feared attack in world rugby — the All Blacks.In this exclusive Aotearoa Rugby Pod interview, the former Scotland captain opens up on how Mike Blair got the call from Dave Rennie, why Rennie trusts him with the All Blacks attack, and the pressure that comes with taking over such a famous rugby identity.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Midway through Super Rugby's round robin, who are the bolters or "moneyball" players Dave Rennie simply can't ignore?We give a preview of our exclusive interview with new All Blacks attack coach Mike Blair, which drops later this week, as well as a breakdown of everything Super Rugby.Giveaway timeTo get six pitch side tickets to the Blues v Highlanders game at Eden Park on April 17, courtesy of Barfoot & Thompson. To enter:

The Lam name means something in rugby — and Joel Lam is carving his own path within it.After struggling to break into the professional game, Joel stepped away from rugby and switched to league to keep chasing the dream. Now, he's back — and rising with Moana Pasifika.In this episode of Aotearoa Rugby Pod, Joel opens up on:What it's really like carrying the Lam family nameWhy he left rugby for league — and why he came backHow he finally earned his Super Rugby opportunityThis is more than a comeback story — it's about identity, legacy, and proving you belong.

Former Scotland halfback Mike Blair has been named All Blacks attack coach — but for many New Zealand fans, he's still an unknown.So who is he, and why does Dave Rennie trust him with one of the most important roles in world rugby? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What will Tana Umaga bring as the All Blacks defence coach?In this episode of Aotearoa Rugby Pod, Jip and Bryn bring first-hand insight from inside a Tana Umaga environment, breaking down his coaching style, standards and the impact he could have on the All Blacks defence.New episodes, analysis and interviews every week covering the biggest stories in rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.