A little bit of History

The past exists only in memory, consequences, effects. It has power over me only as I give it my power.I can let, release it move freely, I am not my past. Anon

It is generally accepted that like rugby itself refereeing in Hawkes Bay began around 1875. In these early days game would be refereed by coaches, teachers, school House masters and ncos'.

Whistles were introduced into the game in 1886.

The Picture below is the first existing picture of a Hawkes Bay Referee in action (on the far left in trousers and white top, circa 1880s)

The Hawkes Bay Rugby Union in these early days was responsible for appointing referees to games.

The original Hawkes Bay Rugby Referees association was formed in 1894 and disbanded the same year.

It wasn't until June 10th 1899 that the HBRRA was reformed and has seen several changes along the way to get to its present state.