History

At the outset it was resolved that Rugby would benefit from Golden Oldies Festivals, and the relationship with local organising groups provides them with opportunities to gain funds for the development of the game and other needs such as junior Rugby, injured players, refereeing and school rugby support.

The first Festival was held in the winter of 1979 when 15 Rugby teams floundered on sodden Auckland fields; 13 from New Zealand and a combined Canadian / USA group. From these humble beginnings Golden Oldies Rugby Festivals have ventured to all corners of the globe and become the biggest Rugby Festival in the world and a true international event. It has changed people's lives and the team environment has enabled many to travel away from their home countries for the first time.

Venues for past Festivals have been:

How does a city win the bid to host a World Festival?

The first consideration is the ability of the Host City to provide the facilities and services to ensure an enjoyable Festival. The World Secretariat and Air New Zealand consider all applications, looking at such issues as:

• The attractiveness and appeal of the city for Golden Oldies and their partners and families. (Questionnaires are sent to Golden Oldies teams seeking their preferences for destinations and their Festival expectations).
• The range and standard of sporting facilities available.
• The availability of suitable, reasonably priced accommodation meeting the different needs of teams.
• The availability and ability of a Festival committee to plan and manage a successful Festival.
• The opportunity the Festival will create to support the sport at a local level.

Attendance at a Golden Oldies World Festival can be to experience the indescribable. Participants expect the games will be highly organised and the whole Festival a masterpiece of co-ordination, but importantly they are there for the true love of their sport.