Billy Bush

Bill Bush (Billy Bush) has a life story unlike any other All Black. A kina diver at primary school, a labourer at the Marsden Point refinery at 14, it took a promise of a Fanta and a pie to get him to play rugby, a sport he initially reckoned was too rough for him.

The reluctant warrior became a fearsome, revered All Black prop, and captained and coached the Māori All Blacks. His insights on rugby, and its place in New Zealand life, are unique.

The journey Bill takes readers on in Billy Bush is not all about playing rugby but explains his whakapapa (lineage), his upbringing, his beliefs, and hopefully demonstrates that there are other ways to get on in life and to be successful. Bill offers some simple life lessons: don’t get trapped into seeing the grass as being greener on the other side of the fence. Stand tall and proud alongside others; enjoy the simple things in life along with your successes, however small they may be. Embrace the things you enjoy as a valued New Zealander by focusing on simple goals with honesty, hard work, and determination.

About the Author:
Bill Bush was born in Hawke’s Bay, went to school in Bay of Plenty and Northland but played all his provincial rugby for Canterbury, for whom he achieved a century of games between 1971 and 1982. A legendary hard man, Billy Bush played 37 games for the All Blacks between 1974 and 1979. As well, has been a wonderful contributor to Māori rugby, both as a player for the Māori All Blacks, and also as a coach and administrator.

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