New Zealand’s men’s international rugby union year kicks off soon on July 5 with a three-test home series against France. PJ TAYLOR asked people at Botany Town Centre if they’re intending to watch the All Blacks in 2025 and do they believe rugby is still the national game? Colleen Wright, of Dannemora “Yes, I will be watching. Rieko Ioane is my favourite player. I love it when we play the Wallabies. New Zealand is known for rugby, racing and beer. I’m not a fan of football.” Francis Roberts, of Howick “I’ve always followed rugby league and now the grandkids are playing football I’m enjoying that. I played rugby at school, but my boys played league, the Howick Hornets is the club.” Izaak Kirkbeck, of Half Moon Bay “Rugby’s not as popular as it was. Interest has fallen in my generation. Friends are watching sports from abroad such as football and basketball, looking up to players like Steven Adams.” Don Thorburn, of Cockle Bay “I will be watching. It’s still the national sport, but I played rugby league for the Mt Albert club. My late brother was an All Blacks’ selector, Peter Thorburn.” Magdalena Archer, of Mangatangi “I follow the All Blacks and will be watching. Rugby’s got competition from other sports such as league. A lot of mothers are wary of injuries and steering their children to football.” Wayne Gartrell, of Whitford “I don’t follow rugby at all, and I’m South African. I’m a major motorsport fan, mainly off-road events, world rally champs, motocross, adventure racing like the Paris to Dakar Rally.”