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by New Zealand Broadcasting School students

Boys’ High triumphs in annual rugby rivalry with Christ’s College

Sport

Hester Lukey

In a tradition that has outlasted two world wars and four pandemics, one of New Zealand’s longest-running school sports rivalries commenced yesterday afternoon.

Christ’s College hosted Christchurch Boys’ High School for the 140th edition of their annual rugby match, an event which dates back to 1892. 

Christchurch Boys’ High has historically had the upper hand in the rivalry, having 88 wins to Christ’s College’s 43, and nine matches ending in draws. 

This year, Boys’ High extended their lead with a final winning score of 48–38. 

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Boys' High scoring a try Hester Lukey/NZBS

‘It was a massive seesaw battle’ said former Crusader and current Boys’ High coach Willy Heinz. ‘We obviously got out to a decent bit of a lead and seemed to have a bit of a foothold in the first half and then we made a few errors or gave away a few penalties which put us under pressure. ‘ 

Heinz additionally acknowledged the significance of the occasion. ‘Hearing everyone speak about the game you start to understand just how important it is to the boys, at this school but also at Christ’s college as well’. 

The game brought an extremely high energy atmosphere. Students packed the stands, banging on barriers, waving flags, and raising their hands in unison with fingers twinkling as a good luck omen. 

Supporters on both sides kept up a near constant chorus of chants, some playful and some more vulgar. 

‘Yeah, it’s a good rivalry,’ said Boys’ High openside flanker Jonty Leary. ‘Real intense when you’re playing the game and then outside of the field, we’re all just friends.’ 

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Christ's College and Boys' High players competing for the ball in a line out Hester Lukey/NZBS

Spectators described the atmosphere to MetroNews as ‘competitive’ and ‘animalistic’. 

‘it's been going on for a while, it's all healthy competition though’ said one Christ college student. 

Christ college and Boys high students brought unwavering passion and support, with both schools performing a powerful haka before kickoff. 

Security was visible throughout the grounds, a reflection of the match’s notorious past - including a brawl in 2009 which led to multiple arrests and a ban on alcohol at the event.  

This year, all physical contact stayed on the field. 

Despite the heated rivalry, the event remains a celebration of school spirit, athletic excellence and tradition. 

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Boys' High player returning to his friends holding the trophy Hester Lukey/NZBS