The Manawatu Turbos: A Legacy of Passion and Pride in Rugby
The Manawatu Turbos, a professional rugby union team based in Palmerston North, have a rich history dating back to 1886 when the Manawatu Rugby Football Union (MRU) was first established. As one of the oldest rugby unions in the country, Manawatu has played a significant role in shaping the sport’s landscape, including being instrumental in the formation of the New Zealand Rugby Union in 1892.
A Legacy of Green and White
The Turbos, as they’re affectionately known, have traditionally donned a distinctive green and white tramline jersey, a tradition believed to have begun in 1909. This iconic colour scheme has become synonymous with Manawatu rugby, although there have been variations over the years, including a brief foray into red in 1996.
Competition and Achievements
The modern incarnation of the Manawatu Turbos competes in the Bunnings National Provincial Championship (NPC), the premier domestic rugby competition in the country. The team’s most notable achievement came in 1980 when they clinched the National Provincial Championship First Division title. More recently, the Turbos tasted success in 2014, winning the ITM Cup Championship Division.
Home Ground and Fan Culture
Central Energy Trust Arena in Palmerston North serves as the home ground for the Turbos, with a capacity of 18,000. The team’s supporters, known as ‘bucketheads’, are renowned for their unique tradition of wearing modified plastic garden buckets during matches, adding a distinctive flavour to the game-day atmosphere.
Notable Players and All Blacks Connection
Throughout its history, Manawatu has produced 41 All Blacks, including rugby legends such as Gary Knight, Mark Shaw, Christian Cullen, and Aaron Smith. The current Turbos squad boasts several players who have made their mark in Super Rugby, with some earning coveted spots in the national team.
Aaron Smith, one of the most celebrated halfbacks in world rugby, continues to be a source of pride for Manawatu. His selection for the All Blacks in 2012, alongside Aaron Cruden, marked the first time since 1986 that two All Blacks hailed from Manawatu simultaneously.
Recent Developments and Milestones
In recent years, the Turbos have shown promising signs of resurgence. The 2011 season was particularly memorable, with the team securing their first competition win over Wellington in the capital after 124 years of attempts. That same year, they put on a spectacular offensive display, scoring 54 points against Waikato at Arena Manawatu.
The Turbos have also been at the forefront of progressive change in rugby administration. In 2021, Manawatu became the first top-flight union to appoint a woman, Andrea Jackson, as Chief Executive Officer.
Community Engagement and Grassroots Rugby
While the Turbos represent the pinnacle of rugby in the region, the MRU remains deeply committed to grassroots rugby. The union oversees seven grades of senior club rugby, featuring 14 Manawatu clubs and select teams from outside the region. The premier men’s club competition, the Hankins Shield, is believed to be the oldest prize in club rugby, underscoring the rich heritage of the sport in the region.
For women’s rugby, the Prue Christie Cup stands as the premier club competition, reflecting the growing importance and recognition of women’s rugby in the region.
Looking Ahead
As the Manawatu Turbos continue to compete at the highest level of domestic rugby, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a region steeped in rugby tradition. With a strong focus on nurturing local talent and a passionate fan base, the future looks bright for this storied club.
The Turbos’ journey is more than just about wins and losses; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby in the Manawatu region. As they charge forward, the green and white colours of the Turbos will undoubtedly continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for rugby enthusiasts across the Manawatu-Whanganui region and beyond.