New Zealand Men's Rugby League team arrive in York
The squad are based out of the city ahead of the competition starting on Saturday (15 October)
Last updated 12th Oct 2022
The New Zealand rugby league team have arrived in York.
The former Rugby League World Cup Champions, who are currently ranked world Number 1 in the International Rugby League, are staying in the city for the duration of this year’s tournament.
The New Zealand Men’s team are one of the five teams being hosted by York; alongside the women’s teams from New Zealand, Australia, France and Cook Islands.
A Civic Welcome for the women’s teams will be hosted later this month.
York’s LNER Community Stadium is hosting eight women’s games, more women’s games than any other host city, including the double-header semi-final.
Jordan Rapana, Player for New Zealand Kiwis said:
“We’re really looking forward to the Rugby League World Cup, I know we’ve got a very good team here and a very good squad. I know we can do some damage in this competition, so really looking forward to it.
"In terms of where we’re based in York, it’s a beautiful place. I’ve been here two days now and the atmosphere great, beautiful old buildings and wonderful welcoming people. I’ve lived here in England in the past and this is by far my favourite place.”
Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome the New Zealand Men’s Rugby League team to York, the first of a number of nations that will be staying in the city for the Rugby League World Cup, including Australia, France and Cook Islands.
“This tournament will be viewed across the world and I have no doubt these teams will inspire a new generation of athletes here in York. We will be working with partners across the city to ensure this event creates a long lasting legacy for the sport and the wider community, with resident engagement set to be a key part of the activity.
“Bringing this world event to York is the result of a huge partnership effort, and I know that the people of York will give all the teams a fantastic welcome.
“I hope the team enjoy their stay in York and wish them all the best in their matches.”
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director at Make It York said:
“We’re delighted to be hosting such a high level of talent in York for the Rugby League World Cup. It’s been an inspiring evening welcoming the internationally ranked world number 1 New Zealand men’s team to our city, and we look forward to welcoming the four women’s teams later this month. The Rugby League World Cup is an occasion not to be missed, with eight women’s games being hosted at our very own LNER Community Stadium.
"Bringing the Rugby League World Cup to York has been a city effort from partners across the city including City of York Council, York City Knights, Make It York, GLL, York St John University, University of York and Queen Ethelberga’s. It is an honour to showcase York to the international sporting community and inspire future generations of athletes here in York.”