Zinzan Brooke was a founding player of the Southerners Sports Club (Bangkok), playing in the inaugural match in 1994 against Taradale RFC. He would go on to be part of the teams of Lazio, Casale, Harlequins, Coventry, Auckland, and Auckland Blues across a 17 year club career.

He made his debut for the New Zealand national team, the All Blacks, in 1987, becoming one of the best number eights to have ever played for the squad. He was particularly impressive when it came to his kicking; in a 1995 World Cup match, he scored an impressive 48-meter drop goal.

Zinzan Brooke | Career Highlights

Over a distinguished career from 1987 to 1997, he earned 58 Test caps for the All Blacks and scored 17 tries—then a world record for a forward. Brooke was instrumental in New Zealand’s victories in the 1987 Rugby World Cup and the inaugural Tri Nations tournaments in 1996 and 1997. He captained the Auckland Blues to Super 12 titles in 1996 and 1997 and played a pivotal role in Auckland’s dominance in the National Provincial Championship during the late 1980s and 1990s. Notably, he scored a remarkable 48-metre drop goal during the 1995 Rugby World Cup semi-final against England, a moment that has become iconic in rugby lore.

Zinzan announced his retirement from international rugby union in 1997. But he didn’t retire from club rugby. He moved to England to play for the Harlequins, followed by Coventry, and Windsor Rugby Club.

Zinzan Brooke | Awards & Achievements

Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM): In the 1997 New Year Honours, Zinzan Brooke was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to rugby.

Super 12 Championships: As captain of the Auckland Blues, Brooke led the team to victory in the Super 12 tournaments in 1996 and 1997.

Tom French Cup: Awarded to the best New Zealand Māori rugby player, Brooke received the Tom French Cup in 1992 and 1994.

All Blacks Caps and Points: Zinzan earned 58 Test caps for the All Blacks, scoring 17 tries—a world record for a forward at the time—and amassing 195 points in total.

Rugby World Cup Appearances: He represented New Zealand in the 1987, 1991, and 1995 Rugby World Cups, contributing significantly to the team’s performances.

Inclusion in ’50 Greatest Rugby Players’: In 2007, former England captain Will Carling ranked Brooke as the ninth greatest rugby player of all time in The Daily Telegraph, highlighting his exceptional skills and versatility.

Induction into TVNZ ‘This Is Your Life’ Wall of Fame: In 2011, Zinzan was inducted into the TVNZ ‘This Is Your Life’ Wall of Fame, recognising his contributions to rugby and his status as a national icon.

Zinzan Brooke | Post-Retirement

After retiring from international play, Zinzan moved to England to play for the Harlequins before moving to coach them. Back in New Zealand in 2011, he was inducted into the TVNZ This is Your Life hall of fame.

Since retiring, he set up a boutique bed and breakfast in Windsor which he ran with his wife until 2012.

He also published his autobiography, Zinny: The Zinzan Brooke Story in 1995 alongside Alex Veysey. He even featured in Keith Quinn’s 1999 book, A Century of Rugby Greats.

Zinzan Brooke | Keynote Speaker

Zinzan is now a very popular keynote speaker, talking about everything from his Māori heritage to elite sports. These experiences make him the ideal person to discuss the similarities and differences in rugby culture in different cultures.

Speaking Topics

– International Rugby

– Club Rugby

– Māori Heritage

– The All-Blacks

– Peak Performance

– Resilience

– Motivation

– Teamwork

– Leadership Skills

Call +44 1753 439 289 or email Great British Speakers now to book All Blacks Rugby Player Zinzan Brooke for your next live event.

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