Waikato Rugby Union - T1 Rugby

T1 Rugby – A New Way to Play in Waikato

T1 is rugby reimagined.

No tackles. No scrums. No lineouts. Just the best parts of the game – running, passing, evasion and support in a new non-contact format developed by New Zealand Rugby.

It’s fast, social, and simple to learn. Whether you're still playing, haven't picked up a ball in years, or want a fun way to stay active, T1 is built for you.

Waikato Rugby is launching its first-ever T1 Rugby competition this winter. It runs for five weeks on Friday nights at Hamilton Marist, and we want your team in.


Keen to be part of it? Whether you’re signing up with your clubmates, rounding up workmates, or pulling together a social crew, now’s the time to lock it in. Waikato’s first-ever T1 Rugby competition kicks off on Friday 22 August, and spaces are limited.

Fill out the form below to register your team. Once you’ve submitted your details, we’ll be in touch with confirmation and further details. If you have any questions please contact Michaelw@mooloo.co.nz

T1 Rugby – Rules and Game Format

Team Size

  • 7 players per team (on the field)

  • Unlimited rolling substitutions

Field Size

  • Played on half a field (approx. 60m x 40m)

Game Length

  • 20-minute games

  • 10-minute halves, short break in between

Contact Rules

  • Non-contact format

  • 7 touches per team before handover

  • No full tackling allowed

Set Pieces

  • Scrums: Uncontested

  • Lineouts: Contested

  • Breakdowns: Players form defensive triangles to compete for possession

  • Kicks: Allowed, but no charging or full-contact contesting

Style of Play

  • Fast-paced and continuous

  • Focus on running, passing, support play and evasion

  • Simplified rules make it easy for new players to learn and join in