North Harbour Rugby has axed its junior reps team - in a bid to focus more on participation and less on performance.

It's the first provincial union to make such a move.

Instead, North Harbour will introduce 'ruby development experiences' that will be open to all players - along with a rippa rugby grade.

North Harbour Rugby general manager, David Gibson told Mike Hosking they want to focus on engagement, growth and good quality experiences.

He said they are trying to put the players at the centre of the programmes.

Gibson said they have had mixed reactions and he understands why people feel so strongly about it.

"I'm a passionate rugby man...and there is a lot of emotion around this topic and we accept that, but we feel that this is a really positive direction for our community, but also for rugby."

"This is one part of a bigger piece of work around growing the game and maximising the experience."

He said we will still be the "best in the world" but it's about looking after the community and players as well.