The International Rugby Hall of Fame was founded by a group of New Zealand rugby enthusiasts whose invovlement in the game was at varying levels but who all recognised that the history and heritage of the game of rugby should not be lost as the sport grew in popularity and profile around the globe.

The function of the Trust is to recognise those players, coaches and administrators who had a significant impact on the game in their era.

Founding Trustees reviewed the induction procedure for many of the Hall of Fames which exist in other sports to consider what criteria, procedure and voting should be constituted to create the most robust induction process.

Every two years; the International Rugby Hall of Fame inducts a new batch of Rugby Greats in a prestigious ceremonial dinner.