Rugby: Black Ferns train with prisoners at women's prison

The Black Ferns ran their drills a little differently this week - inside the walls of Auckland Region Women's Corrections Facility.

Team members jumped at the opportunity to meet some big fans at a venue a little different to the usual classrooms and rugby fields.

They arrived to a warm reception behind the gates, but it wasn't long before the rugby ball was out and the drills began.

They spent time with a group of 29 young prisoners, sharing stories about rugby and their life experiences.

"It's very special for us anyway to be able to inspire these women that are in here, not only to be rugby players but to have a positive mind-set when they get their opportunity to leave here," says Black Fern Renee Wickliffe.

The 29 young women who took part were looking to their sporting idols for more than just rugby tips.

"Everyone sort of has this idea of us that we're not very good people, and to be able to have people of this status come in and actually spend time with us, and feel so comfortable, it's huge, it means the world to some of us," one prisoner told Newshub.

"To be judged is a constant for them, so this is about a non-judgemental, fun activity," says prison director Lyn O'Connor.

"We can hear from the laughter in the background right now how awesome this day's been."

Inmates and teammates coming together and showing just how much the day meant to them both.

Newshub.