Based in Mosgiel on the Taieri Plains, Taieri Rugby Club — affectionately known as “The Eels” — is one of the oldest and most successful rugby clubs affiliated with the Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU).

Key Highlights in Taieri RFC History

1. Inception (1883)

• Founding: Taieri RFC was officially formed in 1883, established shortly after the creation of the Otago Rugby Football Union in 1881.

• Township Hub: The club was created to provide a central sporting outlet for farm workers, tradespeople, and families across Mosgiel and the wider Taieri Plains.

2. Base at Peter Johnstone Park & “The Eels” Identity

• Home Ground: The club settled at Peter Johnstone Park on Reid Avenue in Mosgiel. The facility features five playing fields and extensive training grounds.

• The Eels Nickname: The club adopted the Eels nickname and logo, inspired by the native longfin eels historically abundant in the local Taieri River and surrounding wetlands.

3. The Taieri 7s Tournament (1962–Present)

• Inauguration: In 1962, the Taieri Junior Rugby Club hosted its very first junior sevens tournament.

• Legacy: The Taieri 7s grew to become one of the premier annual junior rugby fixtures in the South Island, bringing together junior teams from across the region every season.

4. Modern Metropolitan Dominance

• Dunedin Premier Powerhouse: In modern Dunedin club rugby, Taieri emerged as a dominant force in the Otago Metropolitan Premier 1 competition.

• Championship Era: Over a 12-year stretch during the 2010s and early 2020s, the Eels reached the Dunedin Premier 1 Grand Final nine times, capturing five championship titles.