There are actually two distinct chapters in the history of Harlequins Rugby Club – Friendly Club – Timaru, New Zealand. The first was an elite invitation-style club in the 1940s and 50s, while the second is the modern local club operating today.

The Original “Friendly Club” (1946–1958)

The phrase “Harlequins Rugby Club – Friendly Club – Timaru” refers specifically to a historic invitation club formed right after World War II in 1946.

• The Vision: It wasn’t a standard grassroots club playing in a weekly local competition. Instead, it was formed as a first-class invitation side (similar to the Barbarians) to play special fixtures, often for charity, bringing top-tier rugby talent to the South Canterbury region.

• The Star-Studded Debut: In 1946, they played and defeated South Canterbury 26–18. The team was selected by legendary All Black N.A. “Brushy” Mitchell and captained by All Black Charlie Saxton. The squad featured seven past or future All Blacks.

• The Look: They originally played in red and gold kit. In 1947, they switched to light blue jerseys featuring a distinct Dalmatian dog badge.

• Charity Focus: One of their most famous moments was a benefit match against an Otago-South Canterbury selection that featured 14 All Blacks and raised money for the family of Allen Simpson (an Albury player who died of match injuries). Another match in 1957 raised £1,200 for the St John Ambulance Association.

• The Final Whistle: The club’s final major match was believed to be on August 3, 1958, against South Canterbury, losing a close 35–34 thriller featuring nine All Blacks. (Though records show they briefly re-emerged for a one-off game in 1967 against a T.C. Morrison’s XV).