WELSHPOOL Rugby Club have enjoyed their own summer tour of New Zealand.

The club returned to New Zealand for the first time in 12 years having harnessed a friendship with local club Athletic RFC over the couse of the past three decades.

The relationship began when Welshpool hosted several Athletic RFC players during the 1990s and strengthened by the Welsh club’s tour of New Zealand 12 years ago.

The match formed the highlight of Welshpool’s 28 day tour which had been planned to coincide with the British Lions tour of the country and saw 30 club members make the long journey to the southern hemisphere

The match was won by the hosts who edged a 15-12 victory in front of 200 supporters in Levin.

Captain Joe Stranks thanks Athletic for their hospitality and hoped the clubs would continue to foster its friendship.

“The club looked after us really well and food was awesome, better than back home,” said Stranks.