Liberty Rugby Club is excited to offer our Varsity Boys the opportunity to tour New Zealand in April 2027 — the heart of world rugby.
Players will compete internationally, experience New Zealand rugby culture, and take part in adventure activities while building lifelong memories with their teammates.
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New Zealand departure!
Tour Snapshot
Destination: New Zealand
Dates: April 9–17, 2027
Matches: Trident High School, Whakatane High School & Otorohanga
Player Fee: $3,500*
Deposit: $500 due September 15, 2026
*Fundraising and sponsorship efforts are expected to help reduce the final cost to players.
The Tour is Expected to include:
- Three international rugby matches
- Cultural immersion and host family stays
- Adventure activities in Rotorua
- Professional rugby exposure
- Team bonding and leadership development
Why Liberty Rugby Tours
International touring is a long-standing rugby tradition. Touring gives players the opportunity to experience rugby culture abroad, build independence, and represent Liberty Rugby on an international stage.
Tour Highlights!
Draft itinerary
| Date | Activities |
|---|---|
| April 9 – Departure Day | Depart Seattle for New Zealand |
| April 11 | Arrive Auckland → Bus to Whakatane → Meet and stay with Trident billets |
| April 12 | Coastlands beach day → Match vs. Trident → Post-match social and feed |
| April 13 | Waitangi Soda Springs → Lunch in Rotorua → Rotorua Luge → Meet Whakatane HS billets |
| April 14 | Match vs. Whakatane High School → Post-match social and feed → Dinner with billets |
| April 15 | Depart Whakatane → White water rafting on Kaituna River → Lunch in Rotorua → Otorohanga → Meet billets |
| April 16 | Match vs. Otorohanga → Post-match social and feed → Dinner with billets |
| April 17 | Hamilton → Super Rugby match → Auckland → Dinner in Auckland |
| April 18 | Long Bay Regional Park → Auckland → Dinner at Fortuna Buffet Restaurant at Sky Tower |
| April 19 | Depart New Zealand for Seattle |
Estimated Tour Costs
The estimated cost for the Varsity Boys New Zealand Tour is approximately $3,600 per player.
This estimate includes:
- In-country transportation
- Lodging and host family arrangements
- Team meals and post-match events
- Rugby matches and hosting clubs
- Planned activities and excursions
Final pricing will be confirmed once airfare and travel logistics are finalized.
Why We Fundraise
Touring is a long-standing rugby tradition. It provides players with an opportunity to experience rugby culture in another country, build independence, and strengthen bonds with their teammates.
Fundraising helps make these experiences possible while keeping costs manageable for families. It also gives players an opportunity to take ownership of their tour and contribute to the team experience.
At Liberty Rugby, we believe these efforts help develop responsibility, gratitude, and pride in representing the club.
Player Fundraising Expectations
All players are expected to participate in club fundraising efforts throughout the year.
Fundraising opportunities may include:
- Club events and tournaments
- Community sponsorships
- Team-led fundraising activities
- Individual sponsorship support
Families are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to help offset travel costs.
Players who need additional support can also pursue personal fundraising or sponsorships.
Payment Schedule
To make the tour more manageable for families, payments are spread out over several months.
| Date | Payment |
|---|---|
| Sept 15, 2026 | $500 Deposit (secures spot) |
| January 1, 2027 | $1,750 (total paid to date) |
| February 1, 2027 | Final balance due — amount TBD based on fundraising/sponsorship |
Payment timing may adjust slightly once airfare and final logistics are confirmed.
Fundraising & Sponsorship
Liberty is committed to making international touring as accessible as possible. Players and families will have opportunities to participate in club fundraising, team fundraising, and sponsorship efforts throughout the year.
Funds raised for the tour will help reduce participating players’ final tour costs. Players are expected to actively participate in tour fundraising efforts.
fundraisinglibertyrugby@gmail.com
Key Points of Contact
- Rugby Director: Sean Twohey
- Fundraising Coordinator: Jo Rasmussen
- Head Coach: Colton Jensen
Liberty Rugby Club 