Story perspectives

NZ Plans New Frigates; Haiti Hosts Rugby; Pen-Pal Apps Surge

5/7/2026

Center

New Zealand Frigate Replacement

New Zealand will discuss replacing its Anzac-class frigates with Australia and Britain by end-2027, Defence Minister Chris Penk announced.
Haiti will host friendlies against New Zealand on June 2 and Peru on June 5 in Florida to set 26-player World Cup roster.
Michael Hooper called coach Dave Rennie an “amazing leader of men” ahead of 2027 WC.
Pen-pal organisations report a surge in participation, with apps like Slowly encouraging handwritten correspondence.

Left

Haiti Qualifies

Melbourne’s Federation Square will not air World Cup matches after prior fan incidents, drawing criticism from players and supporters.
Haiti’s team will face New Zealand on June 2 in Fort Lauderdale and Peru on June 5 in Miami as World Cup warm-ups.
New Zealand sanctioned 20 Russian-linked actors tied to cyber attacks and a payment-provider evading Ukraine sanctions.
Haiti qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a decisive Curaçao win despite gang violence.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 South Africa hosted and won its first Rugby World Cup, the first major sport event after apartheid and the first where the nation competed following IRFB readmission in 1992. On 24 June the Springboks beat New Zealand 15-12 at Ellis Park, with President Nelson Mandela presenting the trophy, symbolising national reconciliation.

1 of 3

New Zealand Frigate Replacement

New Zealand will discuss replacing its Anzac-class frigates with Australia and Britain by end-2027, Defence Minister Chris Penk announced.
Haiti will host friendlies against New Zealand on June 2 and Peru on June 5 in Florida to set 26-player World Cup roster.
Michael Hooper called coach Dave Rennie an “amazing leader of men” ahead of 2027 WC.
Pen-pal organisations report a surge in participation, with apps like Slowly encouraging handwritten correspondence.

1 / 3