All junior rugby league games in the Waikato have been called off today after a string of violent incidents at matches, including adults fighting in carparks and threats made against junior referees.

The Waikato Junior Rugby League Board cancelled all Sunday fixtures, citing fights and abuse at Hopuhopu Sports Park in Ngāruawāhia.

“This decision has not been made lightly,” Waikato Junior Rugby League chairperson Jamie-Lee Marriott wrote on the group’s Facebook page yesterday.

“In recent weeks we have seen an unacceptable increase in poor sideline behaviour, including adults engaging in physical altercations in car park areas, fights occurring in non-permitted areas, threats being made, verbal abuse directed at our junior referees, and our operations staff being subjected to inappropriate and unacceptable treatment.

“The safety and wellbeing of our tamariki, rangatahi, officials, and volunteers remains our highest priority. The current environment does not reflect the values of our game, nor does it provide a safe and supportive space for our community.”

Junior rugby league games in the Waikato have been cancelled after a spate of violent sideline incidents, including adults fighting and threats made against referees. Photo / Waikato Junior Rugby League

The board said it would continue working with clubs to address the issues and ensure appropriate standards were upheld.

“We acknowledge the disappointment this decision may cause however, it is necessary to reinforce expectations and take a firm stand on behaviour at our venues.”

Waikato Junior Rugby League had turned off commenting for the statement, but on another post about spectators managing behaviour, members of the local community expressed their disappointment.

“Some whanau think its all about smashing the opponent up. Its not guys, well it shouldnt be. League is a defensive and strategic game, not all about the big hit ups. Thats why i pulled my son out! Lack of discipline encouraging your sons to smash them!” wrote one commenter.

“Straight up it’s only the start of the season. Absolutely out of it behaviour,” wrote another.

Last week the Herald reported on a game turning violent in Waikato - at a different sports field - when parents punched two children and put another in a headlock at an under-14 school rugby match.

The game was between St John’s College and Fraser High School which left one player with a black eye and is being probed by police.

Waikato Junior Rugby League has been approached for comment.