North Harbour Rugby is pleased to welcome back a familiar face, with Steve Jackson returning to the union as Junior Manager from 20 April, taking over the role from Jack Heighton.

Jackson is well known across the Harbour rugby community and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and passion for the game. With an extensive coaching background across club and professional rugby, he returns to the role with a strong desire to give back to the grassroots game and support the people who make junior rugby thrive.

In the role, Jackson will work closely with Harbour’s junior club network, supporting administrators, coaches, and volunteers who play such a vital role in delivering positive rugby experiences for young players. A key focus will also be assisting with coach development initiatives, helping to grow capability across the Harbour club system and further strengthening the environments where young players learn and enjoy the game.

Harbour Rugby’s Head of Rugby Engagement & Participation, Tyrone Elkington-MacDonald, is excited about the prospect of Steve coming back into the Union – “It is not every day you get a person of Steve’s calibre landing on your front doorstep. His passion for the Union, coaching expertise and leadership skills will be advantageous for the whole organisation. His presence and ability to connect with the community will hold us in good stead in supporting the Junior club network moving forward, and we’re excited in what we can achieve”

Jackson takes over the role from Heighton, who will finish with Harbour Rugby at the start of May before heading overseas with his fiancée for an overseas experience.

Since joining Harbour Rugby in August 2024, the former Harbour NPC player quickly became a hugely valued member of the community team and a well-liked figure across the club network. His enthusiasm, organisation, and genuine care for the people involved in junior rugby made a lasting impression.

During his time in the role, Heighton worked closely with clubs to support the delivery of junior rugby competitions and initiatives, building strong relationships, and helping ensure a positive experience for players, coaches, and volunteers throughout the Harbour region.

Harbour Rugby wishes Jack and his fiancée all the very best for their overseas adventure and looks forward to Steve reconnecting with the Harbour rugby community in the months ahead.

Article added: Thursday 16 April 2026