Players could benefit from development opportunities in Japan after the Blues struck up a rugby partnership with Japanese League One club - Kurita Water Gush, a first for the Kurita Water Industries owned club.

The Blues and Kurita Water Gush see mutual benefit in the multi-year partnership with opportunities set to flow though both rugby eco systems.

Blues CEO Andrew Hore said he’s excited for the Blues to assist the Water Gush in improving their rugby programme both on and off the field and strengthen ties between New Zealand and Japanese rugby.

“Through this partnership some of our young players will have the chance to travel to Japan and develop their game and experience a new culture. Water Gush has a good group of coaches, an ambitious rugby programme and excellent facilities where we feel our players will thrive,” said Hore.

“Rugby’s greatest strength is the global nature of the game and with this brings opportunities. We believe there is a great opportunity to grow the game of rugby in Japan and to help Kurita Water Gush become a seriously competitive rugby club,” said Hore.

Kurita Water Gush were very clear with how the Blues could assist with their future aspirations especially after seeing the Blues claim both the 2024 Super Rugby Aupiki and Super Rugby Pacific titles.

Kurita Water Gush GM of Rugby, Katsumi Mori, said the Blues partnership will give his club a competitive edge.

“This partnership will open up opportunities for our coaches and players to engage with a number of very experienced Blues personnel, exchange players between both clubs and better develop our rugby IP and player development system,” said Mori.

The partnership will provide some team analysis, coaching and mentorship for the Water Gush coaching group.