People planning to be on the sidelines at sports matches this weekend are being told they're no place for abuse, or any form of violence.

There's been a string of incidents at school sports events lately, including an all-in brawl at a rugby match in Auckland last weekend.

Sport New Zealand chief Peter Miskimmin said most games up and down the country go ahead without a hitch.

"There are times when adults start behaving badly and that's when that becomes not enjoyable for the kids."

Miskimmin believes playing Saturday morning sport is a rite of passage for most New Zealanders, and it should be a positive experience.