Rugby jersey [1905 replica]

This rugby jersey is a replica of those worn by the All Blacks in 1905-06. The team was known as 'The Originals'. They travelled to Britain, France, and the United States, winning 34 of their 35 games.

Research project

This replica resulted from a research project by the Fashion School at Massey University, in partnership with the New Zealand Rugby Museum. The project aimed to create a replica for exhibition purposes. This allowed the Museum's original to be 'rested' as long-term display deteriorates clothing. Only about 8 or 9 jerseys survive from the 1905 tour. This replica was copied from Jimmy Hunter's original, which is held at the New Zealand Rugby Museum, Palmerston North.

The project aimed for maximum authenticity. The sizing was based on Jimmy Hunter's stature. The same materials were used as in the original jerseys - primarily lamb's wool. The same manufacturer was involved - Manawatu Knitting Mills Ltd - and the same manufacturing techniques were employed. For instance, old machinery was used to knit the fabric for the correct look and finish. The fern was hand embroidered by Robertina Downes. She studied the fern motif on original jerseys, as well as old patterns held by Roberts Embroidery in Palmerston North.