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New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens is disappointed by Canterbury’s decision not participate at this weekend’s National Sevens from Queenstown.

It is thought financial issues are the major reason for the Cantabs pulling out, with the nation's other major 16 unions all headed to Queenstown.

Canterbury Rugby Union, a “powerhouse province” according to Tietjens, announced major losses earlier this year and it’s thought their no-show at the weekend is a result of cutbacks.

“I’m very disappointed Canterbury can’t put a team in there, particularly with the talent they have within their region,” said Tietjens speaking to the scene.co.uk.

“There are other teams really wanting to be part of this tournament, teams like [minor North Island union] Horowhenua-Kapiti.

“Sevens, certainly for any loose forward or any back, can really launch their career.”

Despite Canterbury not playing, players from the regions will participate for other teams. Queenstown’s annual tournament has often provided Tietjens with new players to use on the IRB Sevens World Series.

Tietjens has led New Zealand to a blistering start on the 2009/10 IRB World Sevens Series taking the titles in both Dubai and George.

The veteran coach has confirmed his contract runs out after October’s Commonweath Games in New Delhi where his teams have won gold at the last three Games. There have been reports he has already been approached by both China and the United States to coach their teams at the sport’s Olympics debut in 2016.

The next leg of the World Series comes to Wellington where Tietjens will be hoping home support can earn his side another win. Along with the NZI Sevens in Wellington, the National Rugby Sevens in Queenstown is regarded as a major highlight in the New Zealand rugby calendar.

North Harbour are the reigning National champions after beating Counties-Manukau 29-26 in a thrilling final last year at the Recreation Ground.

“I’ve really enjoyed it here, I think you get a lot of support, the spectators are very close and I think the players really look forward to it as well,” added Tietjens.

UR7s will be providing a preview of the event on Friday 7th January