The All Blacks may be the world champions, but more than 1500 Bay of Plenty school children from year three to six will contest global rugby glory of a different variety over the next month.

Malfroy School proved too strong for their Central Bay of Plenty year three and four opponents in the first of the district competitions on Wednesday, and will be joined in the Eastpack Baywide Championship in Paengaroa on June 12 by Otonga Road School, Westbrook School and Sunset Primary School and the top four teams from both the Eastern and Western Bay of Plenty.

Selwyn Primary School were the pick of the year five and six competition, with Otonga Road School, Westbrook School and Malfroy School also to contest the Baywide championships.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union rugby development officer Kane Hames said players love the format that has seen increasing numbers participate since it was first launched about seven years ago.

'It's all over in one day whereas Rippa Rugby module takes six weeks to finish,” said Hames.

'It's a big carnival atmosphere with kids running all over the place in their nation's colours.

'They all dress up in their t-shirts that they get to keep thanks to EastPack, and get to hang out with each other for the day.”

Hames said this version of the game, which sees flags attached to players' hips that can be pulled off to signify a tackle, is all about developing evasion, catching and passing skills.

About 480 players will contest the Eastern Bay of Plenty tournament next week, with Western Bay of Plenty teams to go at it in a fortnight.

Year 3 & 4 Division Results

Championship winner: Malfroy School

Championship runner-up: Otonga Road School

Plate winner: Mihi School

Plate runner-up: Kawaha Point School

Bowl winner: Rotokawa School

Bowl runner-up: Mamaku School

Shield winner: Owhata School

Shield runner-up: Broadlands School

Year 5 & 6 Division Results

Championship winner: Selwyn Primary School

Championship runner-up: Otonga Road School

Plate winner: Rotorua Primary School

Plate runner-up: Reporoa Primary School

Bowl winner: Hurungaterangi

Bowl runner-up: Upper Atiamuri/Horohoro

Shield winner: St Michael's Catholic School

Shield runner-up: Mihi School