The campaign to save the Otago Spirit has gained some political clout.
Labour's Clare Curran, Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei and former MP Katherine Rich are urging the region's women to donate what they can to bolster the coffers of the Otago team.
The Spirit needs to raise about $20,000 by the end of April to fund its entry into the national championship.
Curran is donating $300 to the campaign and said Rich and Turei had offered to contribute similar amounts.
"Women don't just make the scones or stand on the sidelines at rugby games any more. They play the game and should be encouraged," Curran said.
"Members of the Spirit are plucky and they are hugely enthusiastic.
"The team has produced some outstanding players, many of whom have gone on to represent New Zealand."
Curran said she had written to a range of prominent women and women's organisations, seeking their support.
"If we work together I am sure we can stump up with what's needed to keep the Spirit alive this season."
Highlanders flanker Adam Thomson has already raised $1500 for the Spirit.
He is also auctioning a World Cup ball on Trade Me and already has a $750 bid.
Save The Spirit
Fund-raising campaign
- Donations to help the Otago women's rugby team compete in the national championship can be made online or at any Westpac bank. The account number is 03-0675-0531096-001 (or suffix 01) with "Otago women's rugby" as the subject line.
- Highlanders flanker Adam Thomson is running his own appeal at http://otagospiritfundraising.tumblr.com.
