Message of congratulations from U.S. Ambassador David Huebner to the All Blacks

I am delighted to congratulate the All Blacks on their 2011 Rugby World Cup triumph. Sunday’s victory was a great moment for New Zealand and a fitting end to an outstanding tournament.  All of us here at the American Embassy and the Consulate General celebrate the victory with you.

The United States was honored to have participated in the tournament, which was a great opportunity for the rugby nations of the world to celebrate how sport can bring together people from different cultures and backgrounds.

I was particularly gratified to see the enthusiastic Kiwi support for the USA Eagles … and not just when we played Australia.  Thanks to all the cities and towns who adopted the American team, and special thanks to Wanganui, New Plymouth, South Taranaki, Wellington, and Richmond for welcoming the Eagles with such great warmth and panache when they visited. You and the rest of Aotearoa have been tremendous hosts to the world over the past six weeks.

The words of the haka resonate particularly strongly tonight:

“Au, au, aue ha!  I ahaha! Ka tu te ihiihi Ka tu te wanawana Ki runga ki te rangi e tu iho nei, tu iho nei, hi! Ponga ra! Kapa o Pango, aue hi! Ponga ra! Kapa o Pango, aue hi, ha! “

It is indeed your time and your moment.  Congratulations again on the tremendous achievement.