The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is currently hosting 11 Japanese High School students ranging from 15-18 years of age and one coach, selected from across Japan by the Japanese Rugby Football Union.

The BOPRU, in association with JPB New Zealand Limited and Mount Maunganui Language Centre, has established a comprehensive programme for the Japanese contingent selected from all areas of Japan to further foster and develop both their English language and rugby skills.

On Wednesday afternoon the Japanese contingent took to the field in the first of a three game day series against Te Puke High School, with Te Wharekura o Mauao playing them at Blake Park on Tuesday August 22.

Their final games will be played at Tauranga Girls' College where they will face that school's team on Thursday August 24.

The contingent is coached and supported by Bay of Plenty Rugby Union's strength and conditioning coach Keith Roberts and women's interim development officer Kendra Reynolds.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union international manager Wayne Brill says with the increased growth in women's rugby internationally, this is a fantastic opportunity to join with the Mount Maunganui Language Centre to provide a programme that is beneficial on and off the field.

'In addition to this we are able to deliver them a cultural experience unique to the Bay of Plenty, which allows us to provide them with a memorable trip.”