Otago

The Otago Rugby Football Union is the official governing body of rugby union for the Otago region of New Zealand. The union is based in the city of Dunedin, and its home ground is Forsyth Barr Stadium. The top representative team competes in the ITM Cup, New Zealand's top provincial competition. The union was to have been liquidated in March 2012. However a deal involving the Dunedin City Council allowed it to keep operating. Otago have won the Ranfurly Shield on seven occasions (1935, 1938, 1947, 1957, 2013, 2018 and 2020). They were the National provincial championship winners in 1991 and 1998. They have a proud record playing international teams, having defeated South Africa and the British and Irish Lions.

The Otago Rugby Union team, commonly known as the Otago Highlanders, is a prominent rugby union team based in the Otago region of New Zealand. Representing the southern part of the South Island, Otago has a rich rugby heritage and is renowned for its passionate fan base and strong community support. The team competes in New Zealand's domestic provincial competitions, such as the Mitre 10 Cup (currently known as the Bunnings NPC), and has historically been a breeding ground for talented players who often progress to the national level with the All Blacks. Known for their rugged playing style and resilience, Otago's team colors are typically blue and gold, reflecting the region's vibrant identity. With a proud history and a commitment to developing local talent, Otago remains a significant and respected name in New Zealand rugby.