New Zealand Rugby says comments by Black Ferns hooker Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate that she had a mental breakdown during the side's recent Northern Hemisphere tour are distressing.
In a social media post - she says disparaging comments from head coach Glenn Moore led to her suffering from anxiety and hyperventilation.
Ngata-Aerengamate says she was told she didn't deserve to be in the team and was selected only to play the guitar.
New Zealand Rugby's head of professional rugby Chris Lendrum says the allegations are concerning and they are taking the matter seriously.
Black Fern Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate Photo: Photosport
"It's very distressing. You never want to see any human describe their situation as Te Kura has and we feel for her," he said.
"Our first priority is to make sure TK is okay and I have sent her a message..outlining our support and care for her and that we are here and ready to talk when she is."
Lendrum said they have discussed Ngata-Aerengamate's comments with Black Ferns coach Glenn Moore.
Black Ferns coach Glenn Moore Photo: Photosport
"He's distressed and upset as well so we have got some work ahead of us to explore this issue as part of the (end of tour) review."
Lendrum wouldn't say whether Moore confirmed or denied the allegations.
"Respect and inclusion and care and connection are principles right at the heart of New Zealand Rugby and how we expect our teams to behave and operate...(so) on the face of it (some) very serious allegations."
The New Zealand Rugby Players Association Rob Nichol said it was making sure Ngata-Aerengamate is getting support and "understands the options available to her in terms of raising any personal grievances or issues."
Lendrum believes Ngata-Aerengamate's on tour mental health issues are an isolated incident and that the well being of players and staff is checked on regularly.
"The team do regular case management and know which players are battling if any are...so (this case) is real surprise to me and very distressing."
The end of year tour was a tough one for the Black Ferns.
They lost all four tests, beaten convincingly by England and France in their first tests for two years due to COVID-19.
-RNZ
