Aaron Woods Backs Second New Zealand Team And Pushes For NRL Expansion To Christchurch – Former NSW Blues and Kangaroos forward Aaron Woods has thrown his support behind a second New Zealand-based NRL club, declaring Christchurch should be home to the competition’s 20th franchise.
Speaking on The Agenda Setters: Rugby League, Woods said the atmosphere in Christchurch during the weekend’s NRL action proved there is a strong appetite for another team across the Tasman.
“I love what I saw yesterday in Christchurch,” Woods said.
“It was phenomenal, it was sold out throughout the week, so you know what I’m going to do? I’m going to buy a second New Zealand side in the South Island, Christchurch. I like it.”
Woods said the response from fans demonstrated that rugby league’s growth in New Zealand is reaching new heights.
“This was phenomenal, boys. I’ll tell you what, it’s great,” he said.
The former front-rower also pointed to the presence of ARLC chairman Peter V’landys in Christchurch as a sign that the NRL is seriously considering further expansion in New Zealand.
“Peter V’landys was over there, so we know there’s some serious business happening with Rugby League in New Zealand,” Woods said.
“Mate, what the Wa’s are doing at the moment? The movement’s crazy. They’re taking over Rugby League.”
The New Zealand Warriors have enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent seasons, with strong crowd numbers and growing support prompting renewed discussion around the prospect of a second New Zealand club joining the competition.
Woods made the comments while discussing the future of the game alongside Corey Parker, David Riccio and Luke Keary on The Agenda Setters: Rugby League.
The Agenda Setters: Rugby League airs on Seven and streams on 7plus.
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Aaron Woods Backs Second New Zealand Team And Pushes For NRL Expansion To Christchurch
