With its first tally of four wins in a season since 1991, which brought sixth place in the second division, a measure of credibility was restored to Wairarapa Bush rugby in 1995. Semi-Finalists Bay of Plenty and Northland proved too strong early on but fancied Hawke’s Bay were beaten in good style and the South Canterbury and Mid Canterbury games featured individual point-scoring records by Wairarapa Bush players.

Former Wairarapa Bush halfback Graeme Anderson pursued a consistent selection policy in his first season as coach, using a small number of Wellington-based players during the championship round.

In the backs, Wairarapa Bush could hold its own with any second division team, especially on attack, and many excellent tries were scored. Outstanding was wing Colin Sullivan with seven tries in eight appearances. Second five-eighth Marty Berry was a dominant figure in all matches, whether on defence, with ball in hand or kicking for goal. His nomination as second division player of the year and inclusion in the Divisional team were just rewards for a fine season. Inside backs Mark Childs and Craig Pepperell also performed well.

The forwards found possession hard to come by in set play against mainly bigger opponents but were always competitive. Individuals worthy of mention were the loose forward trio of Darren Guildford, Mike Fleming and Elliot Fuller, whose support play and tackling were impressive; locks Graeme Smith, Richard Watt and John Kendal, who performed consistently; and Chris Berry, Graeme Cheetham and Shane Coley, who formed a competent front row.

Higher honours went to:
NZRFU President’s XV:  M. Berry