The Manawatu Rugby Football Union (MRU) is the governing body of the sport of rugby union in the Manawatū-Whanganui region of New Zealand. Founded in 1886, Manawatu is one of New Zealand's oldest rugby unions. In 1892, the MRU, amongst other unions, was instrumental in the founding of the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU). In 1997–98 Manawatu entered into an amalgamation with Hawke's Bay, as the "Central Vikings", and wore orange and blue. The union's home ground is Central Energy Trust Arena.