2026 New Zealand Tour

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Saint Mary’s Men's Rugby Heads to New Zealand – Join the Tradition!

Get ready for the ultimate rugby adventure! The Saint Mary’s College of California Men’s Rugby Team is proud to carry on the long-standing Gael tradition of international touring — and this year, we’re headed to New Zealand, the rugby capital of the world. We invite our Supporters to attend.

This special tour is not only a chance to compete and explore but also a historic occasion as we honor the Pat Vincent Centennial Celebration — commemorating the 100th birthday of one of the most influential figures in Saint Mary’s Rugby and international rugby history.

Tour Dates: January 17 - February 1, 2026

 

🇳🇿 Trip Highlights:

  • Compete Against the Best
    Gaels will test their skills in matches against New Zealand clubs.
  • Experience Kiwi Culture
    Dive deep into the rich traditions of a country where rugby isn’t just a sport — it’s a way of life. From local communities to breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand offers an experience like no other.
  • Build Brotherhood
    Strengthen team bonds through shared challenges, travel, and memories that will last a lifetime — both on and off the field.

This international tour is more than a trip — it’s a milestone in the legacy of Saint Mary’s Men's Rugby. Join us as we represent the Gaels on the world stage.

Key Dates

July 29 - Zoom Meeting for Supporters with Travel Agent at 7:00 pm
Aug 15 - 15% Deposit Due for Supporters
Aug 25 - Team Fundraising Begins

Fill out the Interest Form to receive information regarding supporters attending the trip.  Supporters include family, friends, and alumni.

 

Sample Travel Itinerary for Team (Subject to changes)
DateLocationDetails
Jan 17- 18                                             Depart from San Francisco --Arrive in AucklandSFO --> AKL
Jan 19 - 21AucklandExplore Auckland through Sky Tower and an All Blacks Experience. Visit with Auckland Blues, Team training sessons, Rugby for Life Dinner Function  and Eden Park Stadium Tour.  Match #1
Jan 22-23Mount MaunganuiAuckland > Mount Maunganui, Training Session and Free Time.
Jan 24RotoruaSkyline Gondola & 3 Luge Rides,  Mitai Maori Cultural Experience with Hangi dinner
Jan 25 - 27WellingtonHuka Falls, Rugby Museum Guided Tour, Cable Car, Te Papa Museum and free time to explore Wellington. Match #2
Jan 28 - 31ChristchurchWellington >Christchurch via Ferry, Ko Tane Waka Maori Culture Experience, Free time, visit with Crusaders Rugby. Match #3
Feb 1Depart Christchurch --- Arrive San FranciscoChristchurch --> SFO

 

 Sample Travel Itinerary for Supporters (Subject to changes)
DateLocationDetails
Jan 17- 18                                             Depart from San Francisco --Arrive in AucklandSFO --> AKL
Jan 19 - 21AucklandExplore Auckland through Sky Tower and an All Blacks Experience. Rugby for Life Dinner Function and Free time.  Attend Match #1
Jan 22- 23Mount MaunganuiAuckland > Mount Maunganui, Free time.
Jan 24RotoruaFree Time 
Jan 25 - 27WellingtonHuka Falls, Rugby Museum Guided Tour, Cable Car, Te Papa Museum and free time to explore Wellington. Attend Match #3
Jan 28 BlenheimWellington > Blenheim via Ferry, Free time. 
Jan 29 - 31ChristchurchTram City Tour, Free time and attend Match #4
Feb 1Depart Christchurch --- Arrive San FranciscoChristchurch --> SFO

Tour Package Options

(For Supporters)

Option 1

$4,590 Flights Included 

(Based on 40 paying passengers)

INCLUSIONS - International & NZ Domestic Flights Air New Zealand San Francisco > Auckland (NZ7) Christchurch > Auckland (NZ558) Auckland > San Francisco (NZ8) - 13 nights 4* hotel accommodation Twin ensuite rooms • 50 seater coach transport with driver provided throughout the tour • Tour Manager/Guide travelling with you throughout the tour • 13 hot buffet breakfasts • Sightseeing and cultural activities as per tour itinerary inclusions • 24/7 emergency phone support

EXCLUSIONS • Any meals outside of those specified within the tour itinerary - e.g. lunches & dinners • Any activities listed as not inc. within the tour itinerary • Any additional/optional activities • Personal expenditure • Passport & visa costs • Service related tips and gratuities • Early check-in / late check-out fees • Travel insurance

Option 2

$2,515 Flights Excluded 

(Based on 40 paying passengers)

INCLUSIONS - 13 nights 4* hotel accommodation Twin ensuite rooms • 50 seater coach transport with driver provided throughout the tour • Tour Manager/Guide travelling with you throughout the tour • 13 hot buffet breakfasts • Sightseeing and cultural activities as per tour itinerary inclusions • 24/7 emergency phone support

EXCLUSIONS • Any meals outside of those specified within the tour itinerary - e.g. lunches & dinners • Any activities listed as not inc. within the tour itinerary • Any additional/optional activities • Personal expenditure • Passport & visa costs • Service related tips and gratuities • Early check-in / late check-out fees • Travel insurance

Can't make the trip, but would still like to support?  Men's Rugby will begin to fundraise when school begins.  Fundraisers include online donations, raffle ticket sales and apparel sales. 

Checks can be mailed to Men's Rugby:

Men's Rugby New Zealand Tour  Attn: Rebecca Harper

1928 Saint Mary's Road Moraga, CA 94575