Spence named as NZ Rugby vice-president

The man responsible for the birth of the Tasman Mako has been appointed to the highest office in the New Zealand game.

Max Spence will succeed Bill Osborne as vice-president of NZ Rugby for the next two years, then assume the mantle of president in 2020.

Tasman Rugby Union CEO Tony Lewis says Tasman has seen players and coaches go onto to the highest honours in the game, and it's fantastic to now have an administrator at the top level too.

Lewis says while Spence does not have the illustrious playing or coaching career of previous office holders, he is a provincial rugby man through and through.

“He understands the issues, he has lived and breathed them.”

Tony describes Max as the “Father of Tasman Rugby,” as it was in 2005 that Max had the idea to amalgamate the Nelson and Marlborough Rugby Unions into one.

Tony says the proposal was steeped in political issues but Max navigated these with class and compassion.

“He established a seven-man steering committee and the bold move was successful at a special NZR meeting in late 2005.”

A little over a decade later and the Tasman Mako are provincial rugby powerhouses, regularly featuring in the Mitre 10 Cup playoffs.

“Max is a great listener, politically smart and stands up for what is right. He is prepared to take a stand make unpopular decisions.”

Max’s rugby resume dates back more than 40 years.

After studying at and playing for Lincoln University in 1975, Max managed the senior Nelson side from 1980-83, was chairman of the TRU from 2006-08 and served as director of the Crusaders board from 1999-2010 and was chairman of Nelson Bays Rugby from 1996-2005.

He has also enjoyed stellar success in the business sector with Shell, PGG Wrightson’s/Fruitfed Supplies.

Tony says Max will represent the great game of rugby with class, dignity and a will to listen.

“Internationally Max will be a great ambassador for the game and the brand that is New Zealand Rugby.”