A rugby union says it will cancel senior rugby matches for a weekend if there are any more incidents of serious abuse directed towards referees.
In a post to Facebook, the Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union said recent events had seen refs targeted with verbal threats, threats of physical harm - including being stabbed - and “actual physical abuse”.
The union said it was "deeply concerned" about escalating abuse and it had reached a “tipping point”.
“The safety and well-being of our match officials must take absolute priority.”
It said the board, rugby committee, member clubs and affiliated associations agreed that any further instances of serious referee abuse would lead to senior club rugby being cancelled across the region for a full weekend.
Matches would be rescheduled for later in the season.
“This is not a decision we take lightly, but it is a necessary step to send a clear and unequivocal message, abuse will not be tolerated,” the union wrote.
“We must all take collective responsibility to protect our referees, uphold the mana of our game, and ensure rugby remains a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved.
“We all have a part to play. Let’s protect our referees, our game, and each other. Referee abuse, verbal, physical, or intimidating, has no place in our game.
“The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. Stand up and show your support for our Match Officials.”
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