Former All Blacks coach appointed to Blues board

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have appointed former All Black and Auckland Rugby Coach and life-time member of Auckland Rugby John Hart, current New Zealand Rugby Board member Richard Dellabarca and current NZR Rugby Committee member and former government Minister and Cabinet member Sam Lotu-Iiga to the Blues Super Rugby Club Board.

The three appointments are part of New Zealand Rugby’s 40 percent partnership interest in the Auckland-based Super Rugby club following an independent Review of the club’s governance structure.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew said it was important that NZR’s representatives on the Blues Board had proven experience in rugby, business and strong connections to the Auckland region.

“We are pleased that John, Richard and Sam are available to represent NZR’s partnership interest in the Blues Super Rugby club," Tew said in a statement.

“Their collective skills will extend the existing depth of experience of the Blues Board and in combination with other recent changes to the coaching team and re-signing and recruitment of key players, this is one of many steps to help rebuild the success of the Club.”

Blues Super Rugby Chair Tony Carter welcomed the appointment of the new Directors. The skills and experience they bring will be a valuable addition to the Board.

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