Author(s): Toby Butland

Children's non-fiction | Picture Books

The ultimate New Zealand rugby story and New Zealand history book all rolled in to one!

What It Takes to Wear Black tells the story of Henry Butland who was selected to play rugby for New Zealand in 1893, but with the Southern Alps standing in his way, just getting to the game would prove quite a challenge. It illustrates the dedication and commitment required to represent one's country at the highest level, and is guaranteed to capture children's imaginations as it transports them back into New Zealand's colourful past.

Much more than just an exciting adventure story, this book is packed with loads of information about life in New Zealand in 1893, plus plenty of early rugby history. It also includes a foreword by Rugby World Cup winning coach and former school principal Sir Graham Henry.

What it takes to wear black might just be the greatest New Zealand rugby story ever told and is guaranteed to inspire every kiwi kid, whether they are rugby-mad or netball crazy.

It tells the story of my Great Grandfather Henry Butland who was selected to play rugby for New Zealand in 1893. It was the very first tour to be organised by the New Zealand Rugby Union and legend has it that Henry had to traverse the Southern Alps on foot in order to catch the ship to Australia to play.

The book reimagines his feat and illustrates the dedication and commitment required to represent one’s country at the highest level.

Much more than just an exciting adventure story, this book is packed with information about life in New Zealand in 1893, as well as loads of early rugby history. It even includes a foreword from Rugby World Cup-winning coach Sir Graham Henry.

It’s sure to capture your child’s imagination as it transports them back into New Zealand’s colourful past.