From small-town local clubs to the All Blacks, the sport of rugby's been woven into the fabric of our lives.
But how did it happen and why has it become such a big part of who we are?
Author and historian Ron Palenski has just penned a new book Rugby: A New Zealand History, which covers not only the history of rugby but also the context in which it was played, including the social and political history of New Zealand as well.
He joined Paul Henry in studio this morning to talk more about rugby in New Zealand.
Watch the video for the full interview.
