The Test

Some of the great names of All Blacks rugby appear in this documentary, which was made before the 2003 World Cup. They tell the story of the highs and lows of New Zealand’s national game across a century of tours. From cruel violence in the early days to the skills of a top team in full flight, The Test provides the views of players, commentators and coaches. This excerpt concentrates on sometimes bruising encounters between the All Blacks and the Springboks, from the 1920s up to 1956. The Test was named Best TV Sports Programme at the 2003 Qantas Media Awards. 

It’s very important, it is, your discipline, because you’re the window on New Zealand and you’ve got to behave. I mean, that’s part and parcel of it, they’re lucky to be there.

– Fred Allen, All Black coach 1966-68

Key Cast & Crew

David Crerar

Director

Peter Elliott

Narrator

Steven Orsbourn

Sound Production, Producer, Cinematographer

Paul Anderson

Editor

Peter Sugden

Archive Research

Keith Quinn

Subject