About ORRA
The Otago Rugby Referees Association Incorporated (ORRA) is the governing body for rugby referees in the Otago region, dedicated to developing and supporting match officials at all levels.
Our Mission
ORRA exists to:
- Develop and support rugby referees throughout Otago
- Maintain high standards of officiating across all grades
- Provide training, resources, and mentorship to referees
- Foster a positive and inclusive referee community
- Work collaboratively with Otago Rugby and clubs
- Promote the integrity and enjoyment of rugby through quality officiating
What We Do
📚 Training & Development
Comprehensive training programs for all levels
- Pre-season training camps
- Regular development sessions
- Law updates and workshops
- Fitness training coordination
- Mentoring programs
🎯 Match Appointments
Fair and balanced match allocation
- Appointments for all grades
- Development opportunities
- Workload management
- Regional coordination
⭐ Assessment & Feedback
Continuous improvement through evaluation
- Regular performance assessments
- Constructive feedback sessions
- Panel progression reviews
- Video analysis
🤝 Community & Support
Building a strong referee family
- Social events and gatherings
- Peer support networks
- Referee welfare initiatives
- Recognition and awards
Our Structure
ORRA is governed by an executive committee elected by members:
Executive Committee
- Chairperson - Overall leadership
- Secretary - Administration and records
- Treasurer - Financial management
- Coaching & Development - Training and progression
- South Representative - Southern region liaison
- Central Representative - Central region liaison
- Socials Officer - Events and community
Referee Pathway
ORRA supports referees through their development journey:
| Level | Description | Typical Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Beginning referees, learning the basics | Junior grades, social matches |
| Level 2 | Developing confidence and skills | Junior/social, some senior club |
| Level 3 | Established club referees | Senior club grades |
| Level 4 | Advanced referees on pathway to premier | Premier reserve, championship |
| Level 5 | Elite provincial referees | Premier club, representative matches |
Our Values
- Respect: For players, coaches, fellow referees, and the game
- Integrity: Honesty, fairness, and transparency in all we do
- Excellence: Striving for the highest standards
- Development: Continuous learning and improvement
- Community: Supporting each other as a referee family
- Enjoyment: Finding joy in officiating and being part of rugby
History
ORRA has a proud history of supporting rugby referees in Otago. Our association has been instrumental in developing referees who have gone on to officiate at provincial, national, and international levels.
We continue to build on this legacy by maintaining high standards, supporting our members, and contributing to the rugby community throughout Otago.
Join ORRA
Become a Member
Interested in becoming a rugby referee? ORRA welcomes new members at all levels.
Requirements:
- Complete the Associate Referee Course
- Register with New Zealand Rugby
- Pay annual membership fees
- Commit to ongoing training and development
Benefits:
- Comprehensive training and support
- Match appointments appropriate to your level
- Access to experienced mentors
- Fuel reimbursements and match payments
- Social events and networking
- Pathway to higher levels of refereeing
Annual General Meeting
When: 28th of February 2026 @ 11:00am
Where: The Edgar Centre, 116 Portsmouth Drive, Andersons Bay, Dunedin 9012
All members are encouraged to attend the AGM. This is your opportunity to:
- Review the year's activities and financials
- Elect executive committee members
- Share feedback and suggestions
- Connect with fellow referees
Working With Otago Rugby
ORRA works closely with Otago Rugby to:
- Ensure quality officiating across all competitions
- Coordinate match appointments and scheduling
- Align development programs with provincial needs
- Support referee pathways to higher levels
- Promote rugby throughout the region