Hawke's Bay Rugby Referees Association - HBRRA

The Hawke's Bay Rugby Referees' Association is delighted to invite all members to a special Q&A session with Chris Po***ck.

Chris is the Head of New Zealand Professional Referees, a former professional referee, Rugby World Cup official, and proud member of the Hawke's Bay Rugby Referees' Association, having lived in the Bay for the past 2 decades

Throughout his distinguished refereeing career, Chris officiated at the highest levels of the game, including Test rugby, Super Rugby, Rugby Championship fixtures and the Rugby World Cup. Since retiring from on-field officiating, he has continued to play a key role in the development of New Zealand's elite referees, leading the professional refereeing programme and helping shape the next generation of officials.

This is a fantastic opportunity to hear firsthand about:
- Chris's journey from community rugby to the international stage.
- What it takes to become an elite referee.
- Match management, communication and decision-making under pressure.
- The current direction of professional refereeing in New Zealand.
- Insights into the modern game and law application.
- Your own questions during an open Q&A session.

Whether you're a new referee, an experienced Premier official, or simply interested in the game, this promises to be an entertaining and informative evening with one of New Zealand rugby's most respected officials.

Thirsty Whale Referee of the Week – Dan Waenga

Our association is so very privileged to have an active referee with international experience in the ranks. And what’s more, he is a rugby legend, as well as being an absolutely top bloke.

Dan is in his tenth season as a member of the HBRRA. He is always willing to help whenever he can - happily taking on an appointment in any grade.

He has consistently been willing to support and positively encourage all referees—openly sharing his thoughts and feedback in a considerate and meaningful way. Dan offers perspectives to our weekly meetings that are clear, reflective and engaging.

Dan manages any match in such a natural way. His goal this season is to let the game flow as much as possible, which is working beautifully and creating a positive experience for everyone involved. Players respect his calm demeanour and strong knowledge of the game, as well as that personal touch of being friends with many of those who are playing.

This 2026 season Dan is currently involved in sports in so many ways. Take these for starters:
* coaching the Napier BHS 1st XV,
* supporting the other sports his children are involved in,
* as well as developing referees locally.

And that is before he makes himself available to appear in HBRRA colours. This Saturday Dan referees his 52nd Hawkes Bay premier club game when he takes control of the NOBM v HRS Maddison Trophy semifinal.

Thanks for everything you do Dan to support our game, and the people involved in it. Enjoy cashing in that voucher!

Thirsty Whale Referee of the Week – David Clarkson

This week we acknowledge the current chairman of HBRRA, David Clarkson. David joined our ranks in 2022 when he was recruited by work colleague Bruce Dockary to join up - as he had ‘reffed a wee bit back in England.’ After an early appearance, it became apparent pretty quickly that he knew his way around a rugby field while holding the whistle. Ever so modestly, he claimed he was mightily unfit ... but none of the teams he was refereeing spotted that. David quickly advanced to our Premier panel by 2023. And now, this coming Saturday he will control his thirtieth and premier blazer game as HRS plays host to Napier Pirates.

Prior to arriving in New Zealand, David had been ranked as an English National Panel referee and had officiated in national leagues just below the highest club competitions. He adapted quickly to the New Zealand system and incorporates many positive elements of the two distinct hemisphere approaches to creating his own style.

David always appreciates a game at any level. He consistently shows a genuine and real enjoyment of the experience, those playing, and the entire crowd. He always sets high standards for himself. David is prepared to give back in many ways—whether mentoring young referees, coaching and selecting at a regional level or helping fellow referees prepare for law exams.

And along with all this, he has taken on the responsibility as the Chairman of the HBRRA Executive from this year, doing the job professionally and with great impact. Many thanks, David, for all you have given to our game, as well as for what you have achieved thus far. Have a brilliant Saturday!