Chiefs apologise again for female abuse

Local media reported that players swore at the two council wardens using the c-word when they left a training session in Hamilton and realised some of their cars had been ticketed.

The Chiefs, the Super Rugby team that was at the centre of a stripper scandal last year, said the council complained "that inappropriate comments were made as some were leaving voicing frustration at the situation".

"The team has been questioned today and say that while the comments were not directed at the parking wardens, they apologise sincerely for any distress caused to the wardens involved," coach Dave Rennie said.

Last year, a stripper alleged she was groped and demeaned during a Chiefs' player function. 

An internal NZR review cast doubt on her story and cleared the players, but women's groups said the investigation smacked of victim blaming.

In response to the backlash, NZR set up a "respect and responsibility review" to examine ways to curb rugby's macho culture and make the game more inclusive.

Statement from Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie

"The team were at a training yesterday [Wednesday] at a public park where some team members had parked vehicles that received parking tickets.

"The majority of players had travelled by bicycle and the Hamilton City Council has raised with us that inappropriate comments were made as some were leaving voicing frustration at the situation.

"The team has been questioned today and say that while the comments were not directed at the parking wardens, they apologise sincerely for any distress caused to the wardens involved.

"The Chiefs have been in discussions with Hamilton City Council and wholeheartedly support them in their stance against poor behaviour toward any of their staff."

Agence France-Presse & chiefs.co.nz