New Zealand Rugby has released a three-stage plan for the return to club rugby nationwide.
On Tuesday, the Government announced that community sport can resume with certain hygiene and distancing measures in place during COVID-19 Alert Level 2, which begins Thursday.
The 10-person gathering rule means no rugby games or training are able to take place at this stage, but NZR hopes the Government's May 25 review will open the door to the first stage of a return to the field.
If clearance is approved, competition will be able to commence from June 20.
NZR head of participation Steve Lancaster said rugby would take a measured approach introducing three distinct 'Prepare to Play' phases of preparation to ensure clubs were clear about the stringent health and safety protocols required.
"I know our rugby community is very keen to be back out on the grass," said Lancaster.
"But we're being very cautious. We must get it right, and get it right the first time. The health and safety of our community is paramount.
"We're hopeful the 10 person per gathering rule will be increased on 25 May, and when it is, organised training can begin. In the meantime, we encourage participants to register for rugby and start preparing to return to training and playing."
The details of each stage are outlined below, with dates subject to change:
Phase 1: Prepare to Train From 14 May
Rugby clubs work with their Provincial Unions to put procedures in place to ensure all necessary requirements can be met. These include hygiene protocols for people, venues and facilities, requirements for gatherings and contract tracing. No organised rugby training or match activity will occur during this phase.
Phase 2: Prepare to Play (dates to be confirmed, subject to Government advice)
Teams begin pre-season training (including contact training) within NZR’s guidelines and recommendations. This is expected to be a four-week period from 25 May but will be confirmed following confirmation of the government's requirements for gatherings. Pre-season matches may be played in the final week prior to Phase 3.
Phase 3 Play (dates to be confirmed, subject to Government advice)
If restrictions on mass gatherings are increased from 25 May, competition fixtures can begin from 20 June.
Lancaster said the 'Prepare to Play period' is mandatory to support player safety and well-being. It also allows Provincial Unions, clubs and schools time to establish safety plans in order to meet the required public health measures.
He said there was plenty of time for players, coaches and referees to sign up online for the season if they hadn’t already registered.
"New Zealand has done an incredible job of staying home to stamp out COVID-19 and the rugby community has greeted the news of the return of rugby with excitement.
"We are now asking for patience. As keen as we are to return to play, we all need to take the time to do the work to ensure we are ready for kick off.
"We're asking everyone to be aware of their obligations and take responsibility for themselves."
