Boost for New Zealand rugby as 16 sign

A group of 16 players have committed their immediate futures to New Zealand rugby.

The decision of the Super 14 players to re-sign with the New Zealand Rugby Union for up to three years comes just days after All Black scrum-half Piri Weepu announced he would be staying until the end of 2010.

Sean Maitland (Crusaders), a member of the world champion New Zealand Under-20 side, has extended his contract to 2011 along with Steven Setephano (Highlanders) and Benson Stanley (Blues).

New Zealand Maori players Jacob Ellison (Hurricanes) and Willie Ripia (Hurricanes) have signed until the end of 2010 as have Tim Boys (Highlanders), Kurtis Haiu (Blues), David Hall (Highlanders), Faifili Levave (Chiefs), Johnny Leota (Highlanders), Serge Lilo (Hurricanes), Jason MacDonald (Highlanders), George Pisi (Blues), Onosa'i Tololima-Auva'a (Blues) and Fetu'u Vainikolo (Highlanders).

Nick White (Blues) has extended his contract until the end of next year.

NZRU general manager of professional rugby Neil Sorensen said the commitment of the 16 players was important given the recent exodus of players to the northern hemisphere and Japan.

"All these players have played in the Super 14 and are a mix of youth and experience," he said.

"With overseas offers an attractive lure for our players, we don't underestimate how important it is that the guys have all indicated that they want to continue playing rugby here."

"These players are clearly enjoying their rugby and they still have a lot to offer the game here, which is encouraging for the future of rugby in New Zealand."