1st XV Rugby Coach – 2026 Season

1st XV Rugby Coach – 2026 Season

Whanganui Collegiate School

Location: Whanganui, New Zealand

Remuneration: Discussed with shortlisted applicants

Employment Type: Fixed Term or Contract (2026 Season)

About Whanganui Collegiate School

Established in 1854, Whanganui Collegiate School is one of New Zealand's most prestigious co-educational boarding and day schools, with a proud 171-year legacy of academic, cultural, and sporting excellence. A Round Square Global Member School, we offer a vibrant learning environment and internationally recognised qualifications, including Cambridge IGCSE at Year 11.

Our sporting programme plays an integral role in the holistic education we provide. We take great pride in developing student athletes who demonstrate discipline, teamwork, integrity, and respect - qualities that reflect the Collegiate values on and off the field.

The Opportunity

Whanganui Collegiate School invites applications for the position of 1st XV Rugby Coach for the 2026 season.

The 1st XV competes in the prestigious Central North Island (CNI) 1st XV Competition, alongside traditional fixtures and the annual Quadrangular Tournament. Supported by a strong performance framework, including strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and player welfare resources, this role offers the opportunity to lead one of New Zealand's iconic school rugby programmes.

The successful candidate will plan and deliver high-quality training sessions, develop technical and tactical performance, manage match preparation, and lead the team throughout the season. Working collaboratively with the Director of Rugby, performance staff, and other coaches, the 1st XV Coach will play a key role in developing both individual players and the overall rugby culture within the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, deliver, and review structured training and match programmes for the 1st XV.
• Lead the team during CNI fixtures, traditional matches, and tournaments.
• Provide technical, tactical, and player development feedback to students.
• Collaborate with the Director of Rugby, performance staff, and wider coaching team.
• Promote and model the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline across the rugby community.
• Support the holistic development of student athletes in alignment with school values.

About You

You are an experienced and inspirational coach who thrives on developing young athletes. You bring strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills, along with a commitment to student welfare and character development.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A recognised coaching qualification and/or relevant coaching experience within the NZ secondary or club rugby system.
• Proven ability to develop and manage a high-performing team environment.
• Excellent communication and player management skills.
• A collaborative and values-driven approach to coaching.
• A genuine passion for youth sport and player development.

Why Join Whanganui Collegiate School?

This is an opportunity to be part of a proud rugby legacy and contribute to the continued growth of our rugby programme. You'll be supported by an experienced performance team, a dedicated sporting community, and a school environment that values excellence, balance, and integrity.

How to Apply

To request an application form or further details, please contact:

Kylie Wenmoth HR - |

For a confidential conversation regarding the position, please contact:

Mr Wayne Brown, Headmaster -

Applications close Friday, 7 November 2025.

Whanganui Collegiate School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to undergo a police vetting process and must comply with our Child Protection Policy.

Whanganui Collegiate School – Where Tradition Meets Opportunity.