Exclusive Brethren Conference Features All Blacks Coach and Victoria Cross Winner

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen and Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata addressed thousands of Exclusive Brethren at a business conference in Auckland this week. The event, titled “Game Plan 2016,” took place at the Vector Arena and cost $2415 to attend. It was organized by Universal Business Team (UBT), a business network operated by the Exclusive Brethren.

The conference, which spanned two days, focused on team building and leadership. Church spokesman Doug Watt stated that Hansen and Apiata were invited due to their expertise in these areas. Watt emphasized that the skills of non-Brethren individuals, such as teachers and business leaders, are valued within the community.

UBT regularly hosts seminars for members to learn from both fellow members and external experts. These events aim to enhance business practices and career development. The organization operates independently, with profits retained by business owners.

Marketing materials for the conference highlighted the opportunity to apply Hansen’s strategies to personal and professional settings. The event also featured other notable speakers, including Air NZ chief executive Christopher Luxon and adventurer Mike Allsop.

The Exclusive Brethren have faced public scrutiny in the past, notably in 2005 when they were linked to a political campaign supporting the National Party. This led to the resignation of National leader Don Brash in 2006.

A former member of the church, who chose not to be named, expressed surprise at the invitation of Hansen. She recalled that members were discouraged from engaging with media, particularly sports sections, to avoid worldly influences. Some members were even ex-communicated for watching rugby matches.

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