All Blacks Dallas McLeod and Fletcher Newell will be in Methven on Sunday 23 July to take part in a special event to thank rugby supporters in the district ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

The pair will unveil a specially-crafted macrocarpa bench at the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall at 10.30am, and talk about its significance. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The bench is built on a kaupapa of manaaki, on the belief that if we uphold the mana of others and make them bigger than ourselves that we too will benefit.

On the rugby field, the bench is the backbone of the team, the players have the backs of the rest of the side.

Off the field, a bench is a place for people to come together, to share and connect, to celebrate and commiserate.

Council Democracy and Engagement Group Manager Toni Durham said the bench was one of 26 being gifted to communities around the country by New Zealand Rugby as they launched their campaign to support the All Blacks at this year’s Rugby World Cup,

“We’re delighted to have a bench at Methven, and in a place where people will be able to sit and have a quiet chat.

“Dallas grew up in Methven so it’s great that he can return and join Fletcher for this occasion, and I hope that All Black fans and supporters of all ages can come along and celebrate the district receiving this gift.”

The bench carries a special design created specifically for supporters of the All Blacks. The tohu takes the form of a manu (bird) which takes flight from Aotearoa. In the centre, the eyes are formed by two seeds, shaped as rugby balls, representing our potential.

Me eke mai – our bench is your bench.

See the national launch event video from NZ Rugby here.