7th October 2023
The Sky Sport Women’s Premiership finals between the defending champions Akarana Falcons, and the Auckland Vulcans took place at Trusts Arena in West Auckland today. After an intense 70 minutes that saw both sides leave it all on the field, the Auckland Vulcans women claimed their first-ever Premiership title in the teams inaugural season in the competition. This completes a Vulcans double as the men’s side claimed the National Men’s Premiership title against Counties Manukau last week.
Sky Sport Women’s Premiership final – Auckland Vulcans v Akarana Falcons
Final score: Auckland Vulcans 14-6
As both teams battled against not only each other but also wet and windy conditions, outstanding and hearty efforts were shown in this match-up of the Auckland sides. The Auckland Vulcans were steered by veteran Krystal Rota at hooker and bolstered by strong runners including Onjeurlina Leiataua Hunt and Ngatokotoru Arakua. The Akarana Falcons were up to the challenge putting in tough and physical defence, with second-rower Ilaisaane Taufa standing out, aggressively asserting her strength in all tackles she was involved in. An excellent try-saving tackle by Paulina Morris-Ponga and Summer van Gelder of the Falcons kept the Vulcans from putting points on the board early. The game was scoreless up until 30 minutes in, when Moanekah Vaai placed a cross-field kick that was scored by Christyl Stowers under the posts. Makayla Eli successfully converted, bringing the score to just 6-0 in favour of the Vulcans at halftime.
The intensity did not die down in the second half as the poor weather conditions continued to cause trouble for both sides. A textbook tackle by Saphire Abraham caused the ball to come loose only 20 metres out from the Falcons try line, and the Vulcans wasted no opportunity spreading the ball wide for winger Sarah Filimoeatu to score. Not discouraged, the Falcons fought their way into good-ball area and a fine long-ball from Ronise Matini to Marewa Samson on the edge, saw Samson finish and put points on the board for Akarana. A Vulcans penalty on Samson while she dove for the try line warranted an extra conversion right in front of the sticks, successfully kicked by Taufa which brought the score to 10-6 with under 15 minutes remaining. The formidable Vulcans forward pack barged their way down the field, creating an opportunity for centre Leio Fotu-Moala to find space on the edge and find her winger Filimoeatu who crossed for her second. With mere minutes left on the clock, this ultimately sealed a hard-earned victory for the Vulcans.
6th October
The NZRL Sky Sport Women’s Premiership finals take place this Saturday, 7th October 2:00 pm at West Auckland’s Trusts Arena, between the Auckland Vulcans and the Akarana Falcons.
The Auckland Vulcans enter the final contending to claim their first Women’s Premiership title, having earned promotion after winning the 2022 Women’s Championship. Akarana will defend their 2022 title, the side’s first premiership title since 2011.
The sides faced off earlier in Round 2, which saw the Vulcans make a comeback to narrowly win 22-16. Both teams will feature veterans and international representatives alongside up-and-coming young talent.
Most notably for the Vulcans are prominent former Kiwi Ferns Krystal Rota and Shontelle Woodman, who will steer the side as they have throughout the team’s undefeated campaign. Fellow former Kiwi Ferns Onjeurlina Leiataua Hunt and Ngatokotoru Arakua have also had stellar performances for the team thus far, and are ones to watch for.
For the opposing Falcons outfit, former Kiwi Fern and Tonga international Lavinia Tauhalaliku brings her experience and strength. Ahi Kā representatives Ilaisaane Taufa, Ronise Matini, Marewa Samson, Monica Samita, and Summer van Gelder will also feature for Akarana.
The Premiership final will be hotly contested as Akarana looks to defend their title from the formidable undefeated Vulcans side.
The National Men’s and Women’s Championship finals will also be played at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm before the Women’s Premiership finals.
Head down to Trusts Arena Henderson, or catch all the action live on Sky Sport!
MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL
BAY OF PLENTY LAKERS v AORAKI EELS – 10:00 am
WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL
WAIKATO v BAY OF PLENTY – 12:00 pm
SKY SPORT WOMEN’S PREMIERSHIP FINAL
AUCKLAND VULCANS v COUNTIES MANUKAU STINGRAYS – 2:00 pm
01 October 2023
The Auckland Vulcans and Counties Manukau Stingrays battled it out for the NZRL National Premiership title at Pukekohes’ Navigation Homes this Sunday afternoon.
However, it was the Vulcans that steamrolled the first forty minutes with nine consecutive tries in a clinical attacking display that never wavered.
The Vulcans scored five quick tries in the first 15 minutes of the half through co-captain Francis Leger, Levi Atiga, Samuel Desmond and other co-captain Simone Feao, who earned a double.
The Counties’ defence struggled to keep up with the Vulcans attacking momentum. Fullback Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo went over for Auckland’s fifth with consecutive tries shortly after to Freedom Vahaakolo and Patrick Sipley.
With a 38-0 score line in the 30th minute, Counties finally found possession. However, a lost ball over the try line saw points go begging. The Vulcans answered back quickly with a try to centre Fiohiva Faingaa, making it 44-0 at the break, a tough hill to climb for the depleted Stingrays.
The Vulcans opened the second half with a try to Levi Atiga, but the Stingrays’ second-rower, Ngarima Pita, finally put Counties on the board through a barging run up the middle, making it 50-6.
Vulcans co-captain Sione Feao answered back quickly with his hattrick as the Auckland dominance continued. Further tries to Sam Ngati, Makaia Tafua and a fourth to Sione Feao sealed the win 70-6.
The Auckland Vulcans were crowned NZRL National Premiers in a clinical 14-try display over Counties Manukau.
1st October
The NZRL Men’s National Premiership finals take place today 2:00 pm at Pukekohe’s Navigation Homes Stadium, between the Auckland Vulcans and Counties Manukau Stingrays.
The Auckland Vulcans enter the final, contending to claim their first National Premiership title, having earned promotion after winning the 2022 Men’s Championship. Counties Manukau will play in their first Premiership final since 2020, when they narrowly lost to the Akarana Falcons. Both teams enter the final unbeaten and will feature National Championship and Premiership veterans, alongside young talent in their debut men’s representative seasons.
Most notably for the Vulcans, prominent former Junior Warriors Dylan Tavita and Francis Leger will steer the side as they have skillfully done throughout the team’s campaign. Young Warriors SG Ball and NSW Cup players Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo and Makaia Tafua have had stellar performances for the Vulcans thus far and are ones to keep an eye out for.
For the opposing Singrays outfit, their formidable forward pack is bolstered by hardy ball-runners, including brothers Manu and Robert-Alan Fatialofa. The former Cook Island International Reece Joyce will take his position at halfback, while young up-and-comer, Warriors SG Ball player Phranklyn Mano-le-Mamea also laces up for the Counties side.
The Premiership final will be hotly contested as Counties secured their spot in the match-up by beating out the 2022 champions the Akarana Falcons last week. They will look to take that momentum into this contest against an experienced and talented Vulcans side.
The Canterbury Bulls and Waikato men will also play at Navigation Homes Stadium at 12:00 pm in a relegation match to determine who will move into the National Championship for 2024.
Head down to Navigation Homes Stadium Pukekohe, or catch all the action live on Sky Sport!
CANTERBURY BULLS v WAIKATO – 12:00 pm
PREMIERSHIP FINAL
24 September 2022
FMG Stadium hosted the NZRL Women’s Championship final as the Wellington Orcas met the Auckland Orcas.
Wellington started hot out of the gates as Wellington standout Sarahcen Oliver finished off a right-side overlap to open up the Orca’s account.
A game that favoured the tough wrestle, late footwork and strength saw Oliver cross for a double as Wellington pushed the game out to 10-0.
In a half that Wellington took by storm, the Vulcans were the last to score, with Lanulangi Veainu finishing off a right side shift and swinging the momentum into Auckland’s favour. Mollie Tagaloa could not convert as Wellington took a 10-4 lead into the break.
The Vulcans came out of the second half with a point to prove, and within three minutes, former Kiwi Fern Sharliz White scored down the Orca’s left channel once again.
Auckland quickly asserted their dominance in the second half as Talei Kidd went over, finishing a lovely move down the left-hand side. Shortly after, Final MVP Cesca Luafalealo sliced through the Wellington defence putting Auckland in striking distance. On the next play, a great line from Harono Te Iringa saw her stretch the advantage to eight points.
Not going away, a move from inside their own half saw Wainuiomata’s Tyler Bentley cross the chalk after great interplay between her and Kayla Faitele. However, sloppy errors from the restart afforded the Vulcans field position, and the Auckland side punished them. Number 21 Sapphire Abraham went in from close distance, pushing the lead back to eight.
A late surge from the Orca’s side saw veteran Brooke Tauaneai clean up the ball to score, to a grandstand finish. The Vulcans showed determination, absorbing multiple sets on their line to see the game 22-18.
AUCKLAND VULCANS 22
Tries: Veainu, White, Kidd, Luafalealo, Abraham.
Conversion: Tagaloa 0/3, Abraham 1/2
WELLINGTON ORCAS 18
Tries: Oliver x2, Bentley, Tauaneai
Conversions: Ruaporo 1/4
FINAL MVP – CESCA LUAFALEALO
June 20, 2022
Experienced forward Isaac Liu will miss the Kiwis’ one-off Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga to be with his partner for the birth of the couple’s second child this week.
The 31-year-old eight-Test Kiwi was named in the wider 15-man squad for the encounter at Mount Smart Stadium on Saturday.
However, Liu, a 217-game NRL veteran, has remained on the Gold Coast to support his partner Jessica for the birth.
“It’s straightforward for us at times like this. We’re always about family coming first,” said Kiwi head coach Michael Maguire.
“It’s such an important and exciting time for Isaac and his wife. He’s very much a part of our squad but there’s only one place he needs to be at a time like this. We’re excited for them.”
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Jamayne Isaako both delayed traveling to England for the Kiwis’ 2018 tour to be with their expectant partners. Watene-Zelezniak was on hand for the birth of his daughter and Isaako his son before they linked up with their teammates.
Liu won’t be replaced in the squad leaving the Kiwis with 24 players as they prepare for the international.
The squad has its first training session at Mount Smart Stadium tomorrow.
April 12, 2022
The Sky Sport Women’s Premiership and the National 20’s Ruben Wiki Cup finals culminate this weekend at the home of rugby league, Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium.
The action kicks off at 12pm when competition dark horse South Island take on Akarana in the National 20’s final followed by 11 time winners, Counties Manukau taking on the Akarana Falcons in the Sky Sport Women’s Premiership final at 2pm.
Both games are free entry at Mt Smart, no vaccine pass required, and for those out of Auckland all the action is brought to you live on Sky Sport 4.
NATIONAL 20s
First placed Akarana go into the final as the only undefeated team in the competition which included a tough victory over opponents South Island in the first round. The Auckland based outfit will be heading into the final with a full steam of momentum off the back of a 76-0 trouncing of the Upper Central Stallions. Big performances from key players such as Elam Payne and Sebastian Su’a will be crucial if the Falcons want to lift their first National 20’s Ruben Wiki Cup trophy.
Road to the Final
AKARANA 24 v SOUTH ISLAND 20 – 13/3 NGA PUNA WAI, CHRISTCHURCH
AKARANA 26 v COUNTIES MANUKAU 26 – 19/3 TRUSTS ARENA, AUCKLAND
AKARANA 36 v WAIKATO 14 – 2/4 BRUCE PULMAN PARK, AUCKLAND
AKARANA 76 v UPPER CENTRAL 0 – 9/4 BRUCE PULMAN PARK, AUCKLAND
South Island go into the final after a convincing victory against Counties Manukau. South Island played a composed and clinical game as they defeated the favoured Auckland side to secure their place against Akarana. A bye in the final week of the round robin also gives them a much needed rest going into what will be a tough contest. Big performances by Uriah Tuli, Ethan Faitala, Jacob Lowe and half Oliver Lawry have led to the South Island’s success, and these players will be instrumental in seeing South Island capture their first National 20’s title.
SOUTH ISLAND 20 v AKARANA 24 – 13/3 NGA PUNA WAI, CHRISTCHURCH
SOUTH ISLAND 44 v UPPER CENTRAL 12 – 20/3 NGA PUNA WAI, CHRISTCHURCH
SOUTH ISLAND 40 v WAIKATO 10 – 27/3 TRUSTS ARENA, AUCKLAND
SOUTH ISLAND 24 v COUNTIES MANUKAU 12 – 3/4 NGA PUNA WAI, CHRISTCHURCH
WOMEN’S PREMIERSHIP
Counties Manukau go into the final of the SkySport Women’s Premiership looking to secure their 12th title on the bounce as they take on Auckland rivals Akarana. The Counties women have been dominant throughout the round-robin completing an undefeated run in a tight 26-22 triumph over their grand final opponents. Key veterans Christyl Stowers and Teuila Fotu-Moala will look to lead the young group to a historic consecutive victory.
COUNTIES MANUKAU 46 v CANTERBURY 10 – 26/3 TRUSTS ARENA, AUCKLAND
COUNTIES MANUKAU 28 v MID CENTRAL 10 – 2/4 BRUCE PULMAN PARK, AUCKLAND
COUNTIES MANUKAU 26 v AKARANA 22 – 9/4 BRUCE PULMAN PARK, AUCKLAND
Despite coming off a tough narrow loss against Counties, Akarana showed positive signs as they look extremely capable of breaking Counties streak in the Women’s Premiership. A different side from the grand finalists two years ago, Akarana have a young core that have already shown their class in this years’ tournament. A team not short of talent, Kiwi Ferns Lavinia Tauhalaliku and Kanyon Paul will be looking to stamp their mark on the game in tandem with half Laishon Albert-Jones. With both teams ready and raring to go, this will be thrilling 2022 SkySport Women’s Premiership final not to be missed.
AKARANA 36 v MID CENTRAL 16 – 27/3 TRUSTS ARENA, AUCKAND
AKARANA 28 v CANTERBURY 14 – 3/4 NGA PUNA WAI, CHRISTCHURCH
AKARANA 22 v COUNTIES 26 – 9/4 BRUCE PULMAN PARK, AUCKLAND
All are encouraged to get down to Mt Smart to see a Saturday filled with exciting rugby league (no vaccine pass needed) or catch all the action on SkySport 4!
March 13 2022
Christchurch’s Nga Puna Wai hosted both South Island and Akarana for their first hit-outs of the 2022 Ruben Wiki Cup.
Akarana asserted themselves immediately, quickly moving into the swing of the game and converting this early dominance into points as Northcote winger Tupala Faaee went over untouched in the corner.
Ten minutes in, Akarana found themselves over again through Faaee as the Falcons went to a short side shift, capitalising on an overlap to make the score 8-0 to the visitors.
Dominating the opening exchanges, Captain Doux-Fiatau-Kauhiva intercepted a loose pass to put winger Esom Ioka down the right-hand side extending the lead to 14-0 as Joshua Tanielu converted.
South Island found a way through as three quick penalties pushed them down onto the Akarana line. Tupou Kaufononga was able to turn that field position into points as he crashed over around the ruck to bring the game to 14-6 going into the half.
Eight minutes into the second stanza saw Sebastian Su’a fight his way over for a four-pointer. A superb break by Ioka put Akarana into dangerous territory and a short ball by Fiatau-Kauhiva put Su’a into a hole where he was able to score. Faaee converted to make it a 20-6 game.
With the contest going back and forth, Akarana took the game into their own hands and were able to extend their advantage in the 60th minute. A clinical set-piece saw Lani Graham-Taufa push the score to a comfortable 24-6.
With 15 minutes left in the match, South Island produced their best displays of the afternoon as Makaia Tafua, Ethan Faitaua and fullback Kiardyn Hatch put themselves on the scoresheet in quick succession to make the game a tight contest. Missed conversions were costly as they were unable to complete the comeback with Akarana sneaking through 24-20 to end round 1.
Next week South Island hosts Upper Central Stallions and Akarana meet Counties in the Auckland derby at Trusts Stadium.
Akarana – 20
Tries:
Tupala Faaee (x2), Esom Ioka, Sebastian Su’a, Lani Graham-Taufa.
Conversions:
Faaee (1/3), Tanielu (1/2)
South Island – 20
Tupou Kaufononga, Makaia Tafua, Ethan Faitaua, Kiardyn Hatch.
Jacob Lowe (2/4)
March 10 2022
The premier 20’s competition, The Ruben Wiki Cup is back this year, kicking off on Saturday the 12th of March, with Waikato hosting Upper Central.
The National 20’s Ruben Wiki Cup brought a level of competition not seen before in Aotearoa, culminating in plenty of grassroots talent taking the next step in their careers, signing with professional NRL clubs.
The cup consists of five teams across the motu competing against each other in a five-week round-robin concept ending with a final being played by the first and second-placed teams. Auckland Blue and Auckland White have been replaced by Akarana and Counties Manukau this year.
Due to Covid protocols, protective layers have been set to create the safest possible competition for everyone involved. Players will be required to provide a negative Rapid Antigen Test, 48 hours prior to their scheduled games, and at this moment in time, there will be no spectators to ensure the 100 limit is kept.
In the event of a Covid framework change, spectators will be required to provide vaccination passports.
All games will be televised on Sky Sport.
Week 1 draw:
Saturday 12th March
Waikato v Upper Central – 2:00 pm – Davies Park, Huntly.
Sunday 13th March
South Island v Akarana – 2:00 pm – Nga Puna Wai, Christchurch
BYE – Counties Manukau
15 July 2021
The Auckland Rugby League will work alongside the Vodafone Warriors and New Zealand Rugby League to deliver a two-day coaching programme, utilising the collective knowledge and resources of all three organisations.
The WNA Coach Development Programme will be hosted at the home of the Vodafone Warriors at Mount Smart Stadium on Sunday, July 25 and Sunday, August 1.
The programme is open to anyone currently coaching an international grade (U13-U20) side, with spots limited and restricted to those who express their interest and confirm they are available to attend both days.
Click here to express interest in attending
ARL coaching and development manager Viggo Rasmussen said it’s a unique opportunity for attendees.
“Between the three organisations there is a wealth of coaching experience and knowledge that will be hugely beneficial to local coaches,” Rasmussen said.
“In addition to the other courses and workshops the ARL have in place, this is another initiative which strengthens our coaching pathway in Auckland.
“We are excited to be working alongside the NZRL and Vodafone Warriors on this programme.”
Vodafone Warriors pathways and development coach Tony Iro said the club was looking forward to working with the New Zealand Rugby League and the Auckland Rugby League on the joint initiative.
“Stacey (Jones) and I will present the football fundamental side of it while Dan and Viggo will do the coach planning, philosophy, coaching styles and so on,” he said.
“The idea is to expand this next year to include more footy knowledge sessions for coaches who are keen and can potentially deliver back to junior coaches at their home clubs.
“We will also be producing a video coaching package for the coaches to use as a resource.”
Dan Keepa, the NZRL national coaching and development manager, added: “The content we have designed for this programme will extend on the coaches growth mindset and rugby league knowledge to complement the up-and-coming talent in the Auckland region,” he said.
“All three organisations share a very similar coach development philosophy that will help nurture our community coaches to ensure the players have positive experiences in rugby league. The next step will be to take this programme nationally.
“It is an exciting time to be a rugby league coach.”
As seen at aucklandleague.co.nz
Auckland White suffered their first loss of the NZRL National 20s on Saturday, going down to Central Districts 26-24 at Opaheke Sports Park.
Auckland had led by two at the break, but a second half full of errors – coupled with two players being sent to the sin bin – saw the hosts unable to kick on and get the result.
An Oscar Amosa try with two minutes left in the game did hand Francis Meli’s side a chance to tie things up at 26-all, but Doux Kauhiva’s conversion was wide.
The loss leaves Auckland White now facing an uphill battle to qualify through to the April 10 grand final ahead of taking on Auckland Blue in Round 4.
In a losing effort Manurewa half Teariki Ford was a standout, scoring the first try and setting the second up to give Auckland an early 10-0 lead, while in the engine room captain Victor Afoa worked hard all day.
But despite the promising start a glut of penalties and dropped ball – which would become a habit over the next 50 minutes – assisted the visitors in getting back into the contest and they scored twice to trail just 14-12 at the break.
Central Districts then scored the next three tries in the second stanza, the last of which came while Auckland had only 11 on the park due to a scuffle which saw Navajo Doyle and Viliami Kuli binned along with a CD player.
Late tries to Marist big man Elam Payne and Amosa gave Auckland a chance, but they couldn’t complete the dramatic comeback.
Central Districts 26 (Herman Seumanufagai x2, Lennix Tovo, Hiraka Wanakore, Carlos Kemp tries; Brooklyn Herewini x3 goals). def. Auckland White 24 (Teariki Ford, Te Napi Waipouri, Kaufana Lasa, Elam Payne, Oscar Amosa tries; Doux Kauhiva x2 goals). HT: 12-14 at Opaheke Sports Park.
26 February 2021
New Zealand Rugby League and Auckland Rugby League have collaborated to design a new approach to junior rugby league, which will see significant changes come into effect from this year.
After working alongside the NZRL to set out the vision for junior league in the country, the ARL will rollout the new Junior Development Framework (JDF) in full for all mini/mod (U6-U12) grades in 2021.
Supported by the NZRL, the ARL has piloted aspects of the framework in various children’s grades in Auckland since 2017, seeking consultation from local coaches, players, managers and club chairs along the way.
While the ARL will implement the new JDF immediately, the NZRL will be adopting a staggered approach with their regions in the rollout of the new framework.
The biggest changes are in the U6 grade where children have their first experience of organised rugby league.
Under the JDF the first eight weeks of the U6 season will be played under League Tag (non-contact) rules, while come the second half of the season teams will have the choice of continuing to play League Tag or to switch to traditional contact rugby league.
For that grade it will be mandatory for coaches to deliver a six-week tackle confidence programme through the opening two months of the season, regardless of which form of the game they choose for the second part of the year.
In relation to skill development and encouraging decision making in the formative years, a crucial aspect is the introduction of first-receiver bibs for the U8-U12 grades, with dummy-half bibs also being used from the U9-U12 grades.
Both bibs allow the player wearing it to run, score and be tackled without two passes being required or a change of possession being triggered (normal mini-mod rules state that two passes must be achieved to retain possession).
ARL game development and participation manager Sam Cawdron said the framework was about evolving the game to suit the attitudes and needs of those involved at junior levels.
“The JDF is heavily geared towards teaching safer tackling and giving kids confidence in contact, along with encouraging skill development, decision making and a learning and play-orientated approach for our youngest players,” Cawdron said. “The move to introduce League Tag for the first half of the season for the U6 grade means teams can be put through a tackle confidence programme and then decide whether they are ready to move to contact or want to continue to play League Tag.
“This is to help build confidence and gives kids a chance to learn and be introduced to tackling.
“Providing kids with the option on when to switch over to contact allows them to be develop at their own pace, keeping in mind that current NRL stars such as Shaun Johnson, Benji Marshall and Ryan Papenhuyzen all come from non-contact backgrounds.
“League Tag is going to help open up rugby league to a larger group of the population who are interested in a non-contact activity.”
NZRL general manager of high performance and football, Motu Tony, said the changes are a positive for the game.
“Extensive research and collaboration have gone into this project to ensure that our participants at the Kiwi League Kids level (formerly mini/mod) have a rugby league programme that is enjoyable, safe and helps develop them on and off the field,” Tony said.
“I would particularly like to thank the ARL for their partnership and fantastic work during the three-year pilot programme, which has resulted in an offering that I am sure will be enjoyed by all our KLK participants.”
For further information and coaching resources click here.
Junior Development Framework features outlined:
February 23 2021
With the Auckland region having moved to Level 1 as of February 23, NZRL is encouraging clubs and all involved in the game to continue to maintain a high level of awareness and hygiene at all rugby league activities, including trainings and games.
While the mandatory Government requirements are significantly reduced under Level 1, clubs are still required to display NZ COVID Tracer QR posters and should have a manual tracing log available too.
All rugby league participants are encouraged to keep track of where they have been.
Good handwashing practices and coughing and sneezing into elbows, not hands, remain important.
Any person feeling unwell should stay home and avoid rugby league activities, and if they present with cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms should contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 to see if they need a test.
The extension of restrictions which limit gatherings to 10 people in Auckland has forced the cancellation of the remainder of the season for all Auckland Rugby League grades.
The Government announced last Friday that level 2.5 restrictions – which include the gathering limit of 10 – would be extended through until at least September 16 in Auckland, ruling out a possible return to play on September 12-13.
The decision – which has the full backing of the ARL Board of Directors – means all grades from U13 up are now cancelled, with mini/mod (U6-U12) grades having already been cancelled last week.
No winners will be declared for any grades.
Auckland Rugby League CEO Greg Whaiapu said as well as running out of time to safely complete the season before the impending New Zealand Rugby League National Competitions and the start of the summer sports season, the ARL has an obligation to prioritise the health and safety of all participants.
“It’s unfortunate news to be delivering and an outcome none of us wanted,” Whaiapu said.
“In making this decision we considered, among other things, the fact that teams have not been able to complete contact training for several weeks due to the restrictions in place, and therefore would be put at a higher risk of suffering injury if asked to return straight into games.
“While we pushed the proposed return to play date back as far as we could, the reality is there is no longer enough weeks left to safely complete our season either.
“At this point I’d like to acknowledge the work of our clubs and the people involved with them, through what has been an incredibly challenging year for everyone.”
This cancellation applies to club grades only and at this stage does not impact planned Auckland Rugby League representative games or Kiwi Tag modules scheduled for later in the year.
After careful consideration and development of Return to Training Guidelines, the Auckland Rugby League will allow its clubs to return to training from Monday, August 31 provided they can adhere to the mandatory requirements in place.
This coincides with the Auckland region moving to Level 2 restrictions as of Monday, which allows for gatherings to have up to 10 people.
Teams can only return to training once they have gained approval from their club, who must have prior approval from the Auckland Rugby League.
Potential return to play details for all grades – with the exception of mini/mod (U6-U12) which have been cancelled – will be confirmed at a later date, pending further Government updates on Auckland’s restrictions.
The full list of mandatory requirements and Return to Training Guidelines can be found here and include the need for clubs to have a pre-training, during-training and post-training hygiene and contact tracing checklist on hand.
Among other restrictions, trainings must not involve contact and all participants must remain at least two metres apart at all times and in bubbles of no more than 10.
Contact tracing QR codes must be displayed at every point of entry and indoor club facilities can be open only if they meet Ministry of Health requirements.
August 24, 2020
Auckland – In light of today’s Covid-19 announcement, rugby league activity (playing, contact and non-contact training) remains postponed in Auckland until Sunday, 6 September, subject to Government review.
Although Auckland’s move to Alert Level 2 this Sunday 30 August 11:59 pm is a positive step, tighter restrictions are in place relative to the rest of New Zealand, including a ten-person gathering limit, prohibiting any rugby league activity until after a Government review on 6 September.
New Zealand – The remainder of New Zealand remains at Alert Level 2 with a 100 person gathering limit; therefore rugby league activity is permitted, ONLY if clubs and facilities can abide by strict health requirements below.
These requirements include what ‘must’ be done, such as:
NZRL will provide further guidance regarding return to rugby league activity for Auckland when possible (subject to Government updates).
The health and wellbeing of our communities remains the priority. Please wear a mandatory face mask if taking public transport and continue to abide by the above health and safety requirements where possible.
Thank you for your ongoing co-operation and understanding during this time.
August 14, 2020
In light of this evening’s Covid-19 announcement, Auckland is remaining at Level 3 for an extended 12 days; therefore all rugby league activity (playing, contact and non-contact training) remains postponed until August 26th subject to ongoing Government updates.
Aucklanders are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement. The area covered by Alert Level 3 is the Auckland Super City – from Wellsford in the north to Pukekohe in the south.
The remainder of New Zealand remains at Alert Level 2 (excluding Auckland); therefore rugby league activity (training and playing) is permitted, ONLY if clubs and facilities can abide by strict health requirements below, until further notice.
Please refer to your appropriate District and Club for more specific information on upcoming competitions and fixtures.
NZRL is in close dialogue with Government and Sport NZ and will provide further guidance regarding return to rugby league activity for Auckland when possible (subject to Government updates).
Thank you for your co-operation and understanding during this time.
August 13, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 restrictions in place across the Auckland region, all Auckland Rugby League games scheduled to be played during the August 14-16 round have been cancelled and will be treated as a ‘Washout Round’.
The ‘Washout Round’ means impacted games will not be rescheduled, with no competition points awarded for the round.
As it stands the Government has placed Auckland under Level 3 restrictions until at least midnight on Friday, August 14, and even if the alert level is lowered ARL CEO Greg Whaiapu said games will not take place this weekend.
“Given the strict COVID-19 protocols that need to be followed, there wouldn’t be enough time for clubs to ensure they have appropriate measures in place even if the alert level was lowered,” Whaiapu said.
“With that in mind we are making the call now because we feel it is in the best interests of everyone involved, regarding their health and safety.”
Updates on future rounds for all grades will be provided at a later date, pending further Government rulings and advice.
In the meantime, all rugby league activity in Auckland, including trainings and gatherings, is suspended.
NZRL is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to update you with the latest information.
We appreciate this is an unsettling time, however we remain vigilant and prepared to tackle this collectively once again.
It’s with great sadness that we announce, former New Zealand Secondary School and under-18 representative Zae Wallace, has passed away after being struck down with the flu.
The young sportsman who’s represented New Zealand at age group level returned to Auckland this year following a stint with the Gold Coast Titans under-20 side and had been in an induced coma for four weeks.
At the beginning of the 2017 season, Wallace signed a contract with the Titans to play in the NYC under-20 competition. Wallace spent that season with the Titans then joined the Burleigh Bears in the Intrust Super Cup.
Playing at halfback and being the youngest member of the squad, Wallace was one of the Akarana Falcons star performers in their National Premiership championship victory in 2016. That same year he was named Auckland Rugby League’s College Player of the Year.
He won selection following a standout season with the Mt Albert Lions in Auckland’s Fox Premier Rugby League Competition. He had returned to New Zealand to play with the Northcote Tigers and had only played one game when he became ill.
Wallace is described as a “lovely and cheeky” young man, who had a great sense of humour and a great bunch of friends. A givealittle page had been set up to raise funds in support of his courageous battle, one friend wrote, “Champions don’t stop, they dust themselves off and push on. This young man is all champion.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Zae’s family and friends, not only was he a rising league star with exciting skill and potential, he was loved by many. A young talent that will be sorely missed.
Photo – Photosport
As seen on nrl.com by Corey Rosser
The promise of a permanent spot in the halves was the key factor in Kodi Nikorima deciding to seek an immediate release from Brisbane and join the New Zealand Warriors.
The Warriors announced the signing of Nikorima through until the end of 2021 on Friday, with the 25-year-old expected to debut for his new club against the Dragons during the NRL’s Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium in round nine on Saturday.
Nikorima said the Broncos made it clear they saw teenager Thomas Dearden as their long-term halfback, at which point the positional security on offer at the Warriors became too good to turn down.
“[Brisbane] were pretty up front and honest in saying that Tom was probably their future half there,” Nikorima said.
“The Warriors came to me and said that they want me to play in the halves here … in the end it was the best decision for myself.
“At the end of the day it was just the fact that there’s a lot of security here, there’s a future for myself in a position that I want to play.
“The Broncos couldn’t offer me anything like that. I could have waited until the end of the year, but that contract that was on offer [from the Warriors] might not have become available then.
“I am grateful for the opportunity that [Brisbane] have given me [by releasing] me right now, and excited about the new journey and new chapter ahead.”
Nikorima said the Kiwi connection at the Warriors was also a crucial factor in his decision to sign with the Auckland-based club.
He was given his Test debut for the Kiwis by now Warriors coach Stephen Kearney in 2015, and he has strong relationships with a number of the squad through time together in camp with New Zealand.
“Knowing Roger [Tuivasa-Sheck] and Issac Luke, who form part of the spine too will definitely help me in transferring from the Broncos into the Warriors’ system,” Nikorima said.
“And also having that relationship with Steve Kearney should help as well.
“That played a big part too. I have had a pretty good relationship with Mooks [Kearney], we have kept in touch over the years and I am really excited to play under him again.”
Nikorima also revealed he and future halves partner Blake Green had already held discussions about the roles they will play in the side, with Nikorima at pains to insist he wouldn’t be attempting to emulate Shaun Johnson’s style.
“I just spoke to Blake briefly before his game [against the Knights] and he sort of said that he wants me playing both sides and just playing off him, I guess playing more of that six role,” Nikorima said.
“Things aren’t going to click straight away … it might take time.
“I don’t really see it as replacing Shaun. What Shaun’s done here has been incredible and I don’t want to compare myself to him, nor will I compare myself to the past players like Stacey Jones.
“I have come here to be who I am. I’m Kodi Nikorima, I’m no one else and I won’t ever try and be anyone else.”
New Zealand Rugby League is saddened to hear of the passing of Kiwi #373 Duncan MacRae who played three Tests for the Kiwis in 1956.
His contribution to New Zealand Rugby League will not be forgotten.
It was a trip down memory lane for Kiwis hooker Brandon Smith, and a once in a lifetime experience for 48 kids at the Waiheke Island Holiday Blast.
A Waiheke Rams junior, Smith has in recent years become a key part of the Melbourne Storm’s NRL side and a capped Kiwi international.
This week marked the first time the Auckland Rugby League has taken its school holiday programme to the island, and Smith said as soon as he found out it coincided with his visit to Waiheke, he was keen to be part of it.
“What stood out to me was the attendance, to see so many happy faces, it reminded me of when I was a junior,” Smith said.
“I loved being here at the rugby league club when I was younger, so just seeing the amount of kids with smiles on their faces, you can tell they are having a really good time.”
Smith spoke to the attendees and took part in activities with them, and believed the programme was a great way to grow rugby league.
“This is something that can help grow the sport moving forward on the island,” he said.
“I gave up my time because I really want to help rugby league grow here in New Zealand, not just on Waiheke, and I believe it starts from grassroots rugby league.”
Auckland Rugby League CEO Greg Whaiapu said it was great to see a local player giving back to his community.
“For Brandon to do this and spend his free time helping the next generation of Auckland footy players, speaks volumes about the person he is,” Whaiapu said.
“It’s always special to meet your sporting heroes, and even better when they come from the same club you are playing at.
“We are very grateful for Brandon’s time and effort – he’s left a bunch of kids with an experience they will never forget.”
The Manurewa Marlins made it back-to-back Farrelly Photos Women’s Premiership titles, after coming out on top in a thrilling Grand Final on Sunday at Mount Smart Stadium #2.
Up 20-14 with three minutes to go, Manurewa then leaked a try under the sticks and the game looked destined for extra time, only for the conversion in front to ping off the crossbar.
With first-choice kicker Alice Vailea nursing a leg injury picked up late in the game, Richmond fullback Shannon Muru was called up to attempt the kick, with the effort not having the required power, effectively handing Manurewa another title.
The win was a deserving reward for Manurewa at the end of a brilliant 2018 season, which saw them go undefeated.The Rusty Matua-coached Marlins had raced out to a 10-0 lead early against Richmond, thanks to four-pointers from Krystal Rota and Kararaina Wira-Kohu.
A quick play-the-ball from TJ Noble-Bell laid the platform for Rota’s effort, before Wira-Kohu rushed from five metres out to find a hole and crash over.
Richmond hit back on the half hour through Vailea, but when Louisa Gago wrapped around for a try in the middle of the park, which Kere Matua converted, Manurewa had a 16-4 to take to the break.
In the second half, tries to Lorina Papali’i and Johreena Sekene, one of which was converted by Vailea, cut the gap to 16-14, with both tries coming off kicks, the first from Shontelle Woodman and the second a pinpoint grubber from Vailea.
But when Manurewa’s Christyl Stowers executed a left-side shift to score with 12 minutes left, Richmond’s dream of a comeback appeared over.
Following long stoppages in play for a couple of injuries, Annetta Nuuausala powered over from close range to score a try which should have forced extra time, with a couple of centimetres on the ensuing conversion denying the central Aucklanders a shot at a memorable victory.
Earlier in the day the Ponsonby Ponies ran out convincing 54-18 winners over Mt Wellington in the second-tier Grand Final, with backrower Mele Toki starring with three tries.
Manurewa 20 (Krystal Rota, Kararaina Wira-Kohu, Louisa Gago, Christyl Stowers tries; Kere Matua 2 goals) Richmond 18 (Alice Vailea, Lorina Papali’i, Johreena Sekene, Annetta Nuuausala tries; Alice Vailea goal). At Mt Smart Stadium #2.
The battle lines have been drawn, with Auckland and the Tonga New Zealand Residents to clash in a representative blockbuster this Queen’s Birthday Weekend.
Following on from Mate Ma’a Tonga’s stunning run at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, a sea of red will once again converge on Mount Smart Stadium on Saturday, June 2, as both sides vie for the Upright Access Mann Cup (2.30pm kick-off).
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The Auckland Maori U20 will also meet the Toa Samoa Invitational U20 in a curtain-raiser to the main game, which kicks off at 12.30pm.
