The 2nd Engineer Regiment Captain, based at Burnham Military Camp in Christchurch, has rapidly emerged as one of New Zealand rugby’s rising locking talents, earning her Black Ferns debut against Australia in 2025. Known for her athleticism, physicality and relentless work rate, Bayfield has seamlessly transitioned from a standout domestic performer for Canterbury and Matatū to the international arena.
But it is her ability to balance professional rugby with the responsibilities of military leadership that sets her apart.
With the support of the New Zealand Rugby Players Association, New Zealand Rugby and the Army, Bayfield continues to pursue excellence across both careers, demonstrating that the two pathways can go hand in hand.
Currently playing rugby full-time while serving part-time in the Army, Bayfield splits her week between professional rugby and military duties, a schedule that demands discipline and commitment.
“Rugby is fulltime for me and the Army I am part-time. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday are all rugby; that is in at hub, training, gym, learning and tactics. Wednesday is my full day with the Army. I put my uniform on in the morning, and head into Burnham Military Camp. Each day looks a little bit different, usually some sort of physical training to start the day. At the moment my work is a lot of computer-based work, I am working on a project, so I set up at my desk and get my work done. The group of soldiers out at Burnham, I know well as I used to work with them, so it is awesome to be able to connect with them for the day. I then go home and get my boots ready for Thursday. I absolutely love what I do and I’m fortunate to be able to do both.”
Bayfield’s journey into the Army began during her final year of high school, when she attended a New Zealand Defence Force careers expo. A subsequent ‘Women in the Defence Force’ experience weekend provided a hands-on introduction to military life.
“It was a real day-in-the-life experience, physical, challenging and hands-on,” she said.
Drawn to the Army’s variety and opportunities for leadership, Bayfield saw a pathway that could complement her rugby ambitions.
“I liked the idea of a physically demanding job that offered variety, leadership opportunities, and the chance to travel and continue playing sport.”
That decision has since shaped her approach to both careers, with Bayfield identifying strong parallels between life in the military and high-performance sport.
“In the Army, there is a will to win. You train how you want to fight; it becomes second nature. You trust your training and your team,” she said.
“It’s the same with rugby. You prepare so that on game day you can trust the process, your instincts and the work you’ve done.”
Bayfield credits her military experience as a key factor in her development as a high-performance athlete.
“The Army has taught me resilience. You’re tested physically and mentally, and you learn to deal with pressure. When those moments come in rugby, I know I can draw on those experiences.”
This ANZAC Day, Bayfield’s two worlds will come together in a meaningful way when she takes the field against the Wallaroos in the first ANZAC Day Test for the Black Ferns. For the 27-year-old, the occasion carries deep personal significance.
“It’s incredibly important. I feel a great sense of pride to wear the black jersey, represent New Zealand, and honour those who have sacrificed their lives for us,” she said.
“For both New Zealand and Australia, it is a day of huge importance. Australians are very patriotic and I know that will be bring an incredible atmosphere. It will certainly be more than just rugby on Saturday; it will be a special day for those that served and came before us.”
As both a soldier and an international athlete, Bayfield represents the spirit of ANZAC Day, service, sacrifice and unity, while also highlighting the opportunities available to young New Zealanders considering a future in both sport and the Defence Force.
Looking ahead, she remains ambitious.
“I’d love to return to the Army full-time in the future and take on more leadership, potentially commanding a squadron,” she said.
For now, Bayfield’s focus is firmly on continuing to perform at the highest level in uniform and in black while inspiring others to follow a similar path.
Watch Black Fern Laura Bayfield's story here.
Article supplied by the New Zealand Rugby Players' Association (NZ RPA).
