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A rugby ball is central to rugby, New Zealand’s national sport, and a key part of the country’s identity. Rugby’s roots in New Zealand stretch back to 1870, when the first official match was played in Nelson using early oval balls made from inflated pig bladders. Today, the rugby ball stands as a symbol of New Zealand’s enduring passion for the game, seen everywhere from local parks to packed stadiums, and woven into the nation’s sporting heritage.
Introduction to Rugby Balls
The history of rugby balls in New Zealand is closely tied to the sport’s growth and place in the country’s culture. Rugby arrived with British settlers after 1840, and by 1870, Nelson hosted the first official match. Early balls were made from pig bladders, which gave them their distinctive oval shape – a departure from the rounder balls used in the 19th century. Traditionally, New Zealand balls were constructed from four leather panels stitched together, a style that has remained consistent here, while some other countries, such as South Africa, have favoured eight-panel designs.
Refinements in the ball’s shape and construction came over time. In the 1870s, Richard Lindon’s introduction of rubber inner tubes in England allowed the ball to take on a more egg-like form, which improved handling and passing. By 1892, the oval shape was officially standardised, with specific dimensions and weight. Discover more Rugby trivia to learn about the development of rugby balls and their place in the game’s history.
Features and Benefits
Rugby balls used in New Zealand meet international standards, with size 5 being the norm for adults. These balls measure about 280–300 mm in length, with a circumference of 740–770 mm along the length and 580–620 mm around the width. The elongated oval shape, with four panels, supports accurate passing and handling.
Modern balls are made from synthetic, waterproof materials, replacing traditional leather – the primary material in the Second World War rugby ball – to prevent waterlogging and ensure reliable performance in wet weather. Textured surfaces – such as dimples or triangular grip patterns (like Gilbert’s G-TR 4000) – help players maintain control, even in muddy conditions. Balls are available in different sizes for various age groups and genders: size 3 for young children, size 4 for juniors, size 4.5 for women, and size 5 for adult men and women. This range supports skill development at every level.
The oval design with pointed ends aids passing and handling, while the textured grip ensures control during fast play, which is vital in New Zealand’s rugby scene. Synthetic materials and water-resistant coatings allow the ball to perform consistently, regardless of the weather. Specialised training balls with improved grip help players develop skills, which is important in New Zealand’s strong rugby development systems. Using the right rugby ball supports the physical activity, fitness, and social connection that rugby brings to communities across the country.
Top Brands
Gilbert is the most recognised rugby ball brand, both globally and in New Zealand. Gilbert has supplied balls for many leading rugby nations and major tournaments, including the Rugby World Cup since 1995. In 2024, Gilbert returned as the official supplier for New Zealand Rugby, including the All Blacks and Black Ferns, covering grassroots to elite levels. Gilbert is known for quality, consistency, and responsible manufacturing. Their range includes match balls, training balls, and supporter balls designed for New Zealand rugby.
Silver Fern is New Zealand’s oldest rugby ball manufacturer, established in the 1950s. Silver Fern supplied the All Blacks in the 1980s and 1990s and is known for quality and community support, including donating balls to clubs and schools. The brand also produces training equipment such as scrum machines.
Adidas is another respected brand available in New Zealand, offering a variety of match, training, and supporter balls. Rhino, available through local suppliers like Powa Rugby, also offers a selection of match and touch balls, catering to the diverse needs of players across the country.
Ordering and Delivery
Rugby balls can be ordered online from leading New Zealand sports retailers such as Rebel Sport, The Warehouse, Players Sports, and specialist stores like Gilbert Rugby NZ and the All Blacks Shop. These retailers offer a wide selection of balls, including match, training, and supporter balls, as well as different sizes for all ages and playing levels.
Standard delivery times within New Zealand are as follows:
- Urban North Island: 1–3 working days
- Urban South Island: 2–4 working days
- Rural areas: 3–5 working days, or a little longer for oversized items
Conclusion and Next Steps
Rugby balls in New Zealand are closely linked to the nation’s rugby heritage and identity. From early pig bladder balls to today’s advanced synthetic versions, they have developed to suit New Zealand’s rugby culture and weather.
Players and coaches should select rugby balls that suit their level and playing conditions – size 5 for adults, smaller sizes for juniors, and training balls with extra grip for skill development. Brands like Gilbert are a reliable choice for quality and durability. For clubs and schools, choosing durable, weather-resistant balls from trusted suppliers is recommended to support training and community involvement. Bulk purchasing from local retailers or official suppliers can help secure good deals and consistent quality. Meanwhile, fans and collectors of rugby balls can look for official replicas and supporter balls, such as the Gilbert RWC Team New Zealand Ball, which celebrates the nation’s rugby story and makes excellent memorabilia.
FAQs
What is the ball in rugby called?
The ball used in rugby is simply called a rugby ball. It is an elongated oval ball, usually with four panels, and weighs about 400 grams. Its unique shape sets it apart from balls used in sports like football or basketball.
What size rugby ball should a 12-year-old use?
A 12-year-old should use a size 4 rugby ball. This size is recommended for players aged about 10 to 14, making it easier for younger players to handle and develop their skills.
Why is a rugby ball egg-shaped?
The rugby ball’s shape comes from its early construction using pig bladders, which naturally formed an oval. This shape makes it easier to hold, carry, and pass while running, which suits rugby’s style of play.
What’s the difference between a rugby ball and an American football?
The main difference is the ends: a rugby ball has flatter, more rounded ends, while an American football has pointed ends. This affects how each ball travels through the air. American footballs are more aerodynamic for long passes, while rugby balls tend to tumble end over end.
