Rugby holds a special place in the heart of the College, with a proud tradition that has developed over 70 years of spirited competition. Lindisfarne has produced six All Blacks: Mick Duncan, John Timu, Taine Randell, Campbell Johnstone, Israel Dagg and George Bridge, along with eleven NZ Schools players and over 40 representatives in various New Zealand age group sides.
While we honour this rich legacy, we are equally focused on the future. In a rapidly evolving rugby landscape, our programme continues to grow, balancing tradition with innovation to create a sustainable development pathway for all players.
We aim to foster a rugby environment that is positive, challenging and enjoyable, where boys develop as athletes and as young men of character. Rugby at Lindisfarne is about more than just the game—it teaches humility, teamwork, discipline and resilience, helping our boys grow through both success and adversity.
Traditional matches are played against Rathkeale College, Scots College and Whanganui Collegiate. Annual fixtures are played against local rivals Hastings Boys’ High School and Napier Boys’ High School and a pre-season games against Palmerston North and Gisborne Boys’ High School.
The season begins with the Presbyterian Quadrangular Tournament established in 1989, involving Scots College (Wellington), St Andrew’s College (Christchurch) and St Kentigern College (Auckland) . The Lindisfarne College 1st XV won the inaugural CNI Rugby competition in 2012, were semifinalist in 2013, 2014 and 2015 and secured 3rd place in 2024 and 2025.