By Ryan Yelavich
When Campbell and Harper Bourke took the field together for Hautapu Sports’ Development team this season, it extended a remarkable record of rugby service from their family.
The father (Campbell) and son (Harper) combination turned out against Hamilton Old Boys, a rare enough feat in itself.
But Harper’s elevation to the Premier B competition means the Bourke family have now provided players, coaches and administrators to Hautapu Sports for more than a century.
Main photo: Three generations of the rugby-playing Bourke family. From left, Harper, Kevin and Campbell.
Six generations: a rugby legacy
The following family members have served Hautapu Sports Club:
JJ Bourke (1920s)
Player and club president from 1923-1937
Tom Bourke (Sr.) (1930s-1940s)
Player.
Tom Bourke (Jr.) (1950s)
Player and club captain.
Kevin Bourke (1970s-1980s)
Player and coach.
Joe Bourke (2000s)
A player who won two Breweries Shields (2006 and 2007), two Premier B titles and made more than 100 appearances for the Premier A side.
Campbell Bourke (2010s — present)
Played for Premiers in the early 2010s, and still able to turn out for the Development side in 2025.
Harper Bourke (2025 — present)
Player for Development squad.
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