Forget pilots, astronauts and firemen. If you ask a little boy in New Zealand what he wants to be when he grows up, chances are he’ll say an All Black. And that little boy might already be pursuing his dream, because New Zealand kids, including girls, start playing rugby at a young age. They even have their own interactive website (www.smallblacks.com) that tells them everything they need to know about getting involved in the game, including contacts for the rugby development officer in their region.

In New Zealand, rugby is the game of the masses, drawing players and supporters from all sectors of society and of all levels of ability. As with most New Zealand sports, clubs are part of a provincial union, which in turn is governed by the NZ Rugby Union. While it may differ from region to region, in general, primary school rugby is administered by clubs rather than schools. It’s usual for kids under the age of eight to play non-tackle, barefoot rugby. After that, they are graded by weight and age. At secondary school, most kids play for school-based teams.

Each rugby region has an extensive, well-organised club competition that caters for everyone from social-grade players through to premier league, where players are hoping for selection in representative sides. For a bit less rough and tumble, look for a presidents team for over-30s or a golden oldies side for the over-35s. The NZRU has a community rugby section on its website (www.nzrugby.com), but it is best to contact your provincial union to find a club that suits your needs. Alternatively, contact your regional sports trust or just go to the closest rugby ground during practice nights and ask around.

In summer, tens of thousands of men and women play Touch, a fast-paced, non-contact version of the game that’s guaranteed to get you fit very quickly. Touch also has a strong social emphasis and there are some winter leagues. To find a Touch organisation near you, visit www.touchnz.co.nz.