Boys 16s and 18s representative sides finalised

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The New Zealand Kiwis have delivered a statement performance at Eden Park, powering past Tonga XIII 40–14 in front of a roaring crowd of more than 38,000 – the largest attendance for a Kiwis Test in over a decade.

The atmosphere was electric from the opening whistle, with both nations’ colours flooding the stands. Tongan supporters brought their trademark passion and noise, met equally by black jerseys through out the crowd and flags from the Kiwi faithful. Every tackle, kick, and try was met with thunderous energy, turning Eden Park into a true celebration of Pacific rugby league.

The Kiwis were clinical from the outset, running in four tries before halftime to take a commanding 24–2 lead. Dylan Brown starred in the halves with a double, while Jamayne Isaako’s accurate boot kept the scoreboard ticking over. Captain James Fisher-Harris led from the front, setting the tone with his physicality and relentless effort through the middle.

Tonga battled bravely in the second half and found moments of spark through the likes of Daniel Tupou and Jason Taumalolo, but New Zealand’s defensive structure held firm. Each Kiwi interchange made an impact, with the bench adding energy and intent to close out the match in style.

For NZRL, the result marks more than just a win  it’s a reflection of the growing strength and pride in the national programme. The team’s professionalism, unity, and precision shone under pressure, reinforcing their status as one of international rugby league’s powerhouse nations.

Following the match, fans were treated to a special live performance by Josh Tatofi, who took the stage under the Eden Park lights. His soulful set capped off an unforgettable night that celebrated culture, competition, and connection — a true showcase of what rugby league means to Aotearoa and the Pacific.

The Kiwis will now shift focus to the Pacific Championships Final in Sydney, carrying momentum, belief, and the backing of an entire nation behind them.

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It was a classic trans-Tasman grudge match at Eden Park, with the Kiwi Ferns and Jillaroos battling it out for 31 minutes before any points were put on the board. 

Australia’s Jessica Sergis leapt to touch the ball down in the corner, with the try converted by Jesse Southwell. The teams headed into the sheds 6-0.

The Jillaroos Abbi Church found the line again early in the second half, taking their lead to 10-0.

Bringing the Kiwi Ferns back into contention, Annessa Biddle put the pedal down, leaving behind the Australians in a thrilling 80m runaway try, though it remained unconverted by Raecene McGregor.

One try wasn’t enough for the Kiwi Ferns, and a strong defensive effort from both sides saw the score remain unchanged for the rest of the second half, with the final whistle blowing on a score of 10-4.

Mele Hufanga was again a stand-out player for the New Zealanders, and Co-Captain Georgia Hale showed her consistent form, making a game-high 50 tackles, along with 100 run metres.

The Kiwi Ferns and Jillaroos now prepare to head to Sydney for the Pacific Cup Final at Commbank Stadium on Sunday 9 November.

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Injuries have forced late changes to the New ZealandKiwis’ lineup for today’s Pacific Championships clash against Tonga at Eden Park (6.05pm kickoff).

Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Sebsatian Kris have bothbeen ruled out after picking up leg injuries in training this week.

Kris was named to make his second Test appearancereplacing the injured Ronaldo Mulitalo on the left wing while Asofa-Solomonawas listed in jersey #18 when the team was selected on Tuesday.

Their withdrawals leave the Kiwis with the bare gameday complement of 19 players.

With Kris out, centre Casey McLean – who has scoredsix tries in first two Tests – has been shifted to the left wing where he madehis Test debut against Papua New Guinea in Sydney last year.

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is moved from fullback intothe centres and Keano Kini will start at fullback. Scott Sorensen has beenconfirmed as 18^th man with Zach Dockar-Clay 19^th man.

‍PACIFIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025

NEW ZEALAND v TONGA

EDEN PARK

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER 2025

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20  Keano Kini
2  Jamayne Isaako
3  Matthew Timoko
1  Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
4  Casey McLean
6  Dylan Brown
7  Kieran Foran
8  James Fisher-Harris (C)
9  Phoenix Crossland
10  Moses Leota
11  Briton Nikora
12  Isaiah Papali’i
13  Joseph Tapine
14  Te Maire Martin
15  Naufahu Whyte
16  Erin Clark
17  Xavier Willison
19  Scott Sorensen
21  Zach Dockar-Clay

Coach: Stacey Jones

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As seen on NRL.com

Surfing and pig hunting — it’s not your typical preparation for an international Test, but that’s exactly the platform Te Maire Martin has used to work his way back into the Black & White jersey.

The utility back was enjoying an end-of-season break when Kiwis coach Stacey Jones put out an urgent call after injuries hit the squad. Martin didn’t hesitate. He answered the call and is now gearing up to pull on the Kiwis jersey for the first time since 2018 when New Zealand face Tonga XIII at Eden Park.

“When we finished up our [Warriors] interviews, Stacey said I’d be in the wider squad and to keep training,” Martin explained. “So I was doing a bit of pig hunting and a bit of surfing. Surfing for me is training — it’s hard work. I was on holiday with the missus when he rang up to see if I could come in. I was keen to be in this environment and it gave me a week to get back into training. We were in Fiji but I’m always happy to come in, even if I wasn’t playing. It was always going to be a yes.”

Martin’s journey back into the Kiwis set-up has been far from straightforward. A standout youngster, he represented the Junior Kiwis and famously kicked a game-winning field goal in 2014. He made his Test debut two years later, but his career was abruptly halted in 2019 when scans revealed a brain bleed that forced him into early retirement. Against all odds, he returned to the NRL in 2022 and has since re-established himself as one of the most dependable playmakers in the competition.

Now 29, Martin says the time away has given him perspective — and a deeper appreciation of what it means to wear the fern. “It’s always an honour to be in this environment. The games I played for the Kiwis were a while ago. I remember them going so fast. They get you too excited and there’s so much adrenaline going through you.”

His recall comes at a critical moment for the Kiwis, with injuries testing the squad’s depth. Named on the bench, Martin’s versatility offers Stacey Jones flexibility across the halves and fullback roles. He’s also bringing the same energy and calm presence that have made him a leader at the Warriors.

“I’m rooming with Te Maire, so hopefully he brings the energy that he brings around camp into the game,” said teammate Dylan Brown. “That’s him — that’s his role. Bringing energy is what we want from our 14.”

For Kiwi fans, Martin’s return is more than just a selection — it’s a story of resilience and readiness. It’s proof that even when life throws challenges your way, the door can always reopen if you stay prepared. His comeback reflects the strength of character that continues to define the Kiwis jersey — one built on hard work, humility, and pride in representing Aotearoa.

As the team prepares for a massive clash at Eden Park, Martin’s inclusion adds both experience and spark. Whether it’s chasing down kicks, injecting energy off the bench, or steadying the attack, his presence embodies what it means to be a Kiwi: tough, grounded, and always ready when called upon.

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The New Zealand Wheel Kiwis have travelled to the Gold Coast and set up camp to participate in the Inaugural Leagues Clubs Australia NRL Wheelchair Championships. The invitation, extended by the NRL Wheelchair Rugby League, provides a valuable opportunity for the side to gain experience and further prepare for the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup.

The Wheel Kiwis will be without several key players with Jamie Tapp (#8), Kauri Murray (#6) and Nikia Fa’atau (#2) scheduled for international duty with the Roller Blacks. We wish Jamie, Kauri, Nikia, and the Roller Blacks all the best for their upcoming Asia Oceania Championship. Charles Joyce (#5) and Boston Charles will line up against New Zealand having been selected to represent Queensland for the Tournament.

New Zealand will introduce several new players into the squad; Pele Sulusi, Mitch Stone, Jack Brown, and Wayne Chase all selected to be part of the Wheel Kiwis for the Championship with the tournament providing an important opportunity for the Wheel Kiwis to build depth and expand the player base ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

“We appreciate the opportunity presented by NRL Wheelchair Rugby League and Wheelchair Rugby League Australia to be part of this Championship. Our inclusion provides valuable experience for our players as we build towards the 2026 World Cup. We would also like to acknowledge the continued efforts of the Warriors Community Foundation and Disability Sport Auckland for their ongoing work in promoting and supporting Wheelchair Rugby League initiatives here in New Zealand”, shared David McMeeken, New Zealand Rugby League National Football Operations Manager.

Two referees, Jordan Chand and Maxine Godinet have been selected to be part of the tournament. They will be involved in upskilling and the opportunity to officiate throughout the Championship. This opportunity presents an exciting step forward for Wheelchair Rugby League in New Zealand, where we currently have no qualified officials. The experience and knowledge they gain will be shared with referees back in New Zealand providing an invaluable boost to the development and growth of the Wheelchair game.

“We’re really excited to be part of the National Championships and grateful for the chance to test ourselves against some quality teams. It’s a great opportunity for our players to gain experience and for us to keep building towards the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup. The energy in the group is awesome, and everyone’s keen to learn, grow, and represent the Wheel Kiwis with pride.” Edie George, New Zealand Wheel Kiwis Head Coach.

The Wheel Kiwis schedule of games:

Round 1: Friday 31 October, 11am –  Wheel Kiwis vs. Queensland White

Round 2: Friday 31 October, 1:15pm – Wheel Kiwis vs. Queensland Maroon

Round 3: Saturday 1 November, 10am – Wheel Kiwis vs. New South Wales

Round 4: Saturday 1 November, 12:15pm – Wheel Kiwis vs. ACT

Round 5: Saturday 1 November, 2:15pm – Wheel Kiwis vs. Victoria

Round 6: Sunday 2 November, 11am – Wheel Kiwis vs. Affiliated States

Final: Sunday 2 November, 1pm – 1^st v 2^nd

New Zealand Wheel Kiwis Squad

Inaugural LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships

1

Jack Brown

2

Wayne Chase

3

Ryan Charles (1)

4

Jayson Hooker (4)

5

Danial Scott (7)

6

Pele Sulusi

7

Slade St. John (8)

8

Mitchell Stone

Head Coach

Edie George

Assistant Coach

Robert (Tiny) Graham (3)

Manager

Korral Heremaia

Trainer

Lincoln Jefferson

Mechanic

Josh Hirini-Barclays

Media

Wes Osman

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Four changes including a Test debut for Brisbane Broncos forward Xavier Willison have been made for the New Zealand Kiwis’ Pacific Championships clash against Tonga at Eden Park on Sunday (6.05pm kickoff).

The 23-year-old NRL premiership-winning Willison replaces Melbourne Storm power forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona on the interchange.

Raised in the remote Waikato town of Tahāroa near Kawhia, the Whatawhata Wolves junior previously represented the Cook Islands after making his NRL debut with the Broncos in 2021.

In 51 NRL appearances he has scored 10 tries, 21 of his outings coming this year when he averaged 111 metres and 23 tackles (95.6 per cent tackle efficiency) a game while making 39 tackle breaks.

He’ll debut alongside fellow Tahāroa native and cousin Te Maire Martin (30), who has been named as the side’s interchange utility in jersey #14.

The One New Zealand Warriors veteran was added to the New Zealand squad as one of two replacements for wing Ronaldo Mulitalo and hooker Jeremy Marshall-King, both ruled out after being injured in the Kiwis’ 24-18 win over Toa Samoa on October 19.

Martin was last an official squad member in 2022 but wasn’t used in the mid-year Test against Tonga. The last of his four internationals to date was the historic one-off Test against England at the Mile High Stadium in Denver in 2018.

Newcastle’s Phoenix Crossland, used off the bench against Tonga, starts at hooker this week while Canberra’s Sebastian Kris is the fourth change, coming onto the wing for the injured Mulitalo.

Predominantly used in the centres by the Raiders, the 26-year-old Kris will be making his second Test appearance, reprising the winger’s role he filled in his try-scoring Test debut in the Kiwis’ 68-6 win over Jamaica in Hull at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup.

Earlier he scored a hat-trick in New Zealand’s 74-0 victory over the Leeds Rhinos in a warm-up match at Headingly.

Kris has come off an outstanding NRL season in which he scored nine tries in 24 games when he averaged 122 metres while finishing with 12 try assists, 16 line break assists and 61 tackle breaks.

The Kiwis are seeking to avenge last year’s controversial 24-25 loss to the Tongans at Go Media Stadium in last year’s Pacific Championships to earn a repeat meeting with the Samoans in the final in Sydney on November 9.

NEW ZEALAND v TONGA — Eden Park, Auckland — Sunday 2 November 2025

1  Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
2  Jamayne Isaako
3  Matthew Timoko
4  Casey McLean
5  Sebastian Kris
6  Dylan Brown
7  Kieran Foran
8  James Fisher-Harris (C)
9  Phoenix Crossland
10  Moses Leota
11  Briton Nikora
12  Isaiah Papali’i
13  Joseph Tapine
14  Te Maire Martin
15  Naufahu Whyte
16  Erin Clark
17  Xavier Willison
18  Nelson Asofa-Solomona
19  Scott Sorensen
20  Keano Kini
21  Zach Dockar-Clay

Coach: Stacey Jones

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The trans-Tasman rivalry is reignited this Sunday, when the Kiwi Ferns take on the Jillaroos at Eden Park.

Looking to claim a win over the current Pacific Champions, Kiwi Ferns head coach Ricky Henry has named another strong side, with an abundance of continuity maintained from the gritty lineup that faced Fetu Samoa.

The only changes come in the form of Raiders centre Leianne Tufuga and Knights prop Tiana Davison, who are injected into the starting lineup. Bulldogs second rower, Shaniece Monschau, will run out in black for her debut off the bench, and multi-code international Tyla King slots in as the 18th man.

“It will be an occasion on Sunday, and we look forward to having Shaniece join our honour roll of Kiwi Ferns,” said Henry.

“This match is always a big one for us, and the Jillaroos are the ultimate challenge, but we have a lot of belief in this group, so we haven’t reinvented the wheel this week.

“We have a lot of belief and we have the opportunity to show this when we play.”

The Kiwi Ferns are particularly motivated, having last got the upper hand over the green and gold team two years ago, in 2023. True arch rivals, Australia remain the only team that has ever defeated the Kiwi Ferns in their 30-year history, so it is sure to be a grudge match this weekend.

Kiwi Ferns team to face Australia:

1. Apii Nicholls
2. Shanice Parker
3. Abigail Roache
4. Mele Hufanga
5. Leianne Tufuga
6. Patricia Maliepo
7. Raecene McGregor
8. Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa
9. Brooke Anderson
10. Tiana Davison
11. Annessa Biddle
12. Otesa Pule
13. Georgia Hale
14. Ashleigh Quinlan
15. Shaniece Monschau*
16. Alexis Tauaneai
17. Ivana Lauitiiti
18. Tyla King

The Kiwi Ferns will kick off at Eden Park at 3.35pm, followed by the Kiwis clash with Tonga at 6.05pm. Fans will be kept entertained throughout the evening with performances from renowned artists Savage and Josh Tatofi.

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18-year-old St. George Illawarra Dragons middle Trinity Tauaneai is closing out a whirlwind season, joining the Kiwi Ferns after making her NRLW debut just 4 months ago.

Tauaneai is elevated from the wider squad following the two-game stand down of Brianna Clark for a grade 2 infringement in the team’s previous match against Fetu Samoa.

Kiwi Ferns head coach Ricky Henry said: “Trinity is a phenomenal young talent who’s already making waves in the NRLW. She’s incredibly mobile, skilful, and has a tough edge to her game. She’s an exciting prospect and definitely one to watch for the future.”

Tauaneai has been a standout throughout the age-grade competitions, representing the Wellington Orcas at the NZRL National Youth Tournament in 2022, where she was selected in the first NZRL Aotearoa Whaanui 16s representative team. In 2023, the Orcas 16s Girls team won the NZRL National District 9s, and Tauaneai was awarded Tournament MVP.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Kiwi Ferns,” said Tauaneai. “It’s always been my dream, but I had it more in my five-year plan. To be there in my first NRLW season is crazy, but I’m so keen to get stuck in and make the most of the experience.”

Stepping into the squad will be made smoother for Trinity with her older sister, Kiwi Ferns back rower Alexis Tauaneai, also part of the star-studded side. Having played in opposition NRLW clubs this year, they are looking forward to being back on the same team.

The Kiwi Ferns squad are now assembled in Auckland ahead of their clash with Australia’s Jillaroos at Eden Park this Sunday 2 November.

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Utility players Te Maire Martin and Zach Dockar-Clay have been brought into the New Zealand Kiwis’ squad for the rest of the Pacific Championships campaign.

They replace Dolphins hooker Jeremy Marshall-King (thumb) and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks winger Ronaldo Mulitalo (knee) who have both been ruled out after leaving the field with injuries in Sunday’s series-opening 24-18 win over Toa Sāmoa at Go Media Stadium.

Returning for his third Test and first since the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, Marshall-King (Kiwi #830) picked up his injury early in the contest but played on gamely until halftime when he was replaced by Phoenix Crossland.

Mulitalo (Kiwi #824), playing his ninth Test, was forced off the field six minutes from fulltime in the epic contest.

Versatile One New Zealand Warriors veteran Martin (Kiwi #802) played the last of his four Tests against England in Denver in 2018. The 30-year-old, with 110 NRL games to his name, can fill the halves, hooker, centres and loose forward as he did at various stages for the Warriors this year.

Hooker-halfback Dockar-Clay (30), yet to make his Test debut, has made 36 NRL appearances for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Sydney Roosters since 2022 while he has clocked up 125 New South Wales Cup games for seven different clubs since 2015.

Like Martin he has represented the Māori All Stars while he and Martin were in the halves when the Junior Kiwis beat the Junior Kangaroos 15-14 in 2014.
Martin and Dockar-Clay will join the Kiwis in camp on Monday when they reassemble ahead of the November 2 showdown with Tonga at Eden Park.

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As seen on nrl.com

The Kiwis stood tall on home soil in Auckland on Sunday as the 2025 Pacific Championships dished up an epic contest

The Kiwis also had to come from behind against Toa Samoa, who led 12-6 after 29 minutes when Blaize Talagi scored.

By half-time the Kiwis had fought back to lead 16-12 and they went on to win 24-18 thanks to a double to Casey McLean and a superb display from Dylan Brown, who clearly revelled in donning the black jumper again as he had 18 runs for 146 metres, two try assists and the match-sealing try.

Casey McLean has played just 120 minutes of Test footy for the Kiwis and already has six tries to his name. The teenager was a constant threat on the left edge and came up with three line breaks and five tackle breaks to go with his try double.

The Kiwis prevailed 24-18 in a thrilling contest with halves Kieran Foran and Dylan Brown combining for the match-winning play. Naufahu Whyte and Joseph Tapine were strong in the middle for the Kiwis and Matt Timoko and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad combined for 351 run metres.

After missing the Pacific Cup final last year the Kiwis are hell bent on avenging that disappointment and taking down Samoa and Tonga to claim the crown.

With the first half of that mission complete they now turn their attention a week three contest against Tonga in Auckland. Tickets from Ticketek.

Read more on nrl.com

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Despite a slow start to the opening round of the Pacific Cup, the Kiwi Ferns have maintained their unbeaten run over Fetu Samoa with a dominant second-half onslaught.

Fetu Samoa owned the first half 20-0, but three consecutive tries after the break from Shanice Parker, Ashleigh Quinlan and Alexis Tauaneai pulled the New Zealanders back into contention.

A blinding 90m run by Mele Hufunga to the try line and a conversion by debutant Patricia Maliepo sealed the deal in the eleventh hour.

Fetu Samoa didn’t have any answers for the Kiwi Ferns’ commanding second half, and the match concluded 22-20 to the home side.

Debutants Maliepo and Tysha Ikenasio demonstrated their class, becoming dual international players. Fellow rookies Ivana Lauiti’iti and Shakira Baker also held their own in the black jersey, showing their skills and strength in the physical contest.

The Kiwi Ferns now head into a bye week, before reassembling in Auckland to face the Jillaroos at Eden Park on 2 November. Tickets from Ticketek.

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Six players from the New Zealand Kiwis’ 2023 title-winning side return for the opening match of the Pacific Championships against Toa Sāmoa at Go Media Stadium on Sunday (6.05pm kick-off).

Head coach Stacey Jones has today recalled the experienced Ronaldo Mulitalo, Dylan Brown, Kieran Foran, Moses Leota, Briton Nikora and Nelson Asofa-Solomona to kickstart the eagerly-awaited third edition of the Pacific series.

All six were key contributors in the Kiwis’ record 30-0 win over the Kangaroos in the 2023 final in Hamilton but were unavailable for last year’s campaign.

Cronulla Sutherland’s Mulitalo comes back on the left wing with Newcastle-bound Brown and retiring 35-year-old Gold Coast veteran Foran paired in the halves; Foran in a more familiar role after starting at hooker in the 2023 final.

Penrith prop Leota is reunited in the front row with his long-time former clubmate and Kiwi captain James Fisher-Harris while Nikora (Sharks) returns in the second row with Melbourne’s Asofa-Solomona on the interchange.

Making a Test comeback is hooker Jeremy Marshall-King, three years after making his only international appearances against Lebanon and Jamaica at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup.

The remaining 10 players included in the starting lineup and on the interchange were all used the Kiwis’ last match when they beat Papua New Guinea 54-12 in Sydney last November.

One New Zealand Warriors fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad was in the halves on that occasion but is back in the #1jersey on Sunday while Penrith’s Casey McLean comes into the centres after bagging four tries on the wing in his Test debut against the Kumuls.

Sunday’s encounter will be the sixth between the two nations with the Kiwis winning the previous five, the last a 50-0 victory in their opening game of the 2023 tournament at Eden Park.

JERSEY NO.NAMEHERITAGE NUMBER1Charnze NICOLL-KLOKSTAD8202Jamayne ISAAKO8083Matthew TIMOKO8324Casey McLEAN8415Ronaldo MULITALO8246Dylan BROWN8267Kieran FORAN7578James FISHER-HARRIS (C)8019Jeremy MARSHALL-KING83010Moses LEOTA82711Briton NIKORA81812Isaiah PAPALI’I81713Joseph TAPINE80014Phoenix CROSSLAND83815Naufahu WHYTE83916Erin CLARK84217Nelson ASOFA-SOLOMONA80418Xavier WILLISON*Debutant19Keano KINI83620Scott SORENSEN83121Sebastian KRIS828COACHStacey JONES665*denotes debutant

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