Anti-Springbok-tour veterans on the power of HART

HART badge Photo: supplied / Victoria University

New Zealand protest group Halt All Racist Tours (HART) formed in 1969 to protest against sporting contact with apartheid South Africa.

In 1981 the issue of whether the All Blacks should play the Springboks came to a head with the nation so violently divided that it is acknowledged as being the closest New Zealand came to civil war in the 20th century.

Kim talked to HART founding member Trevor Richards and former All Black and protester Robert Burgess about how they felt at the time and what it's like to look back from 50 years on.

Victoria University of Wellington and the National Library are holding an event on 12 October to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of HART.

Anti Springbok tour protesters in Hamilton, 1981. Photo by Phil Reid.- National Library

Karen Brough, injured during an anti Springbok rugby tour demonstration in Wellington - Photograph taken by Ian Mackley - National Library

Stu Wilson in action against the Springboks during the South Africa tour of New Zealand 1981. - Photosport

Trevor Richards in the Wellington Police Station in 1981. Credit - NZ Police

Trevor Richards speaks to the crowd after a police baton charge on Molesworth St in 1981 Credit - Richards Family Collection

Trevor Richards, Jim Bolger and Nelson Mandela Credit - Nelson Mandela Trust