The Manly Tour
A 45-year Trans-Tasman tradition rewarding our players' dedication to Hutt Old Boys Marist.
A 45-Year Legacy of Rugby Brotherhood
Started in 1974 by club member Roy Hunt, the Manly Tour is a cherished tradition representing a strong Trans-Tasman bond between Hutt Old Boys Marist and the Manly Junior Reps in Sydney, Australia. HOBM tours Australia every even year, and Manly visits the Hutt Valley every odd year. The tour is a unique reward for players' service and dedication to the club, offering an unforgettable rugby and billeting experience.
History & Tradition
More than just a game, the Manly Tour is about making memories and forging lifelong friendships.
The Billeting Tradition
A core element of the tour is billeting, where players stay with host families. This fosters deep connections—historically lasting 10 days, and currently 3-4 nights of immersive cultural and rugby exchange.
Selection Criteria
The tour specifically rewards commitment. Teams are selected based on their length of service to HOBM rather than solely on rugby ability, ensuring our most dedicated young Eagles get the opportunity of a lifetime.
Historic Milestones
The rivalry is rich with history. The first home victory for HOBM was secured in 1979, and we achieved our very first victory on Australian soil in 1982.
Forming a Committee
Planning an overseas tour takes dedication. Here's how our tour committees are structured.
Tour Planning Committee
Must be formed at least 18 months prior to travel, ensuring ample time for budgeting, fundraising, and logistics.
Key Roles
Led by a Tour Leader (who must be a member of the HOBM Junior Committee), alongside a Secretary and Treasurer to handle administrative and financial duties.
Tour Management Team
The traveling group includes a Coach, Assistant Coach, Team Manager, Health & Safety/Medical Lead (Level 2 First Aid), and a Welfare Officer (Child Safeguarding lead).
Fundraising & Financials
Working together to make the tour a reality for all our players.
Structured Planning
A detailed fundraising plan must be submitted as part of the tour application for approval by the Junior Committee.
Creative Efforts
Historically ranging from 'bottle drives' to modern sausage sizzles and Texas Hold'em evenings, fundraising is a huge team effort that brings families together.
Financial Integrity
All funds raised directly benefit the tour party. In the rare event of cancellation, funds are returned to donors/sponsors or reallocated to other club purposes as agreed.
Operating the Tour
Ensuring a safe, compliant, and exceptional experience.
- Approvals: Tours require specific approval from New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the relevant provincial union.
- Safety First: All adults must undergo NZ Police vetting and child safeguarding training.
- Risk Management: A comprehensive Risk Management Plan (RAMS) is mandatory.
- Logistics: The committee handles all uniforms, kit, travel bookings, and itinerary management.