The trophy the All Blacks and the British & Irish Lions will contest during the DHL NZ Lions Series was unveiled today at the Official Welcome for the touring team in Rotorua.
The winner of the three-Test series will receive the stunning trophy crafted by Waterford Crystal in Ireland.
The trophy was unveiled by New Zealand Rugby Union Chairman Jock Hobbs and General Manager, DHL New Zealand, Phil Rountree before being blessed.
The 61cm-tall creation combines the crystal decorative art of Ireland with elements of Maori symbolism and art and was designed by Waterford Crystal’s Billy Briggs.
Seven trophies were forged in a 1400°C fire to ensure the perfect shape was attained. Only one was chosen and those not selected were destroyed.
The creation of the trophy took over 150 hours and was worked on by a team of master craftsmen.
