COVID-19: How to stay mentally well during lockdown

Competition was high, but so was connection as the inaugural NZRL Wheelchair Rugby League Nationals took place over this weekend, a significant milestone for wheelchair rugby league in Aotearoa.  

Helping to create more opportunities for people to participate and enjoy our game, new and seasoned players alike from both across the country and through an invited Queensland team took to the courts, challenging each other in hard fought games.  

Day 1: Rounds

Day 1 saw teams going head-to-head, with Auckland, Wai-Coa-Bay, Whaanui, and Queensland Rolling Toads all looking to put their mark on the competition and vying for finals spots on the Sunday.

Auckland and Wai-Coa-Bay opened the tournament, Auckland able to edge out their competitors by only a few tries to claim the victory 22-12. Later in the day, they were also able to see out Whaanui 34-22 to go into Day 2 with 2 wins. However, it was the visiting Queensland side that stood top of the table on points difference, also 2 wins from 2. They saw out Whaanui in their first game 52-12 before taking to the court in back-to-back games to take the win against Wai-Coa-Bay in a much closer match, the final score 34-26.

Day 2: Finals

Sunday kicked off with the semi-finals, Auckland up against Whaanui and Wai-Coa-Bay pitted against Queensland.  

Auckland versus Whaanui proved a tight contest. After trading tries, Auckland led for the majority of the game, up 26-12 at one point. However, Whaanui weren’t going to let it slip way, fighting back hard all the way to the dying seconds. With the final score 26-24, Auckland secured their place in the final.  

In the other semi, Queensland proved too good for Wai-Coa-Bay. Despite being able to amass 20 points, Queensland’s speed and agility helped them run away with it, 60 points on the board for the visiting team in the end. This saw them through to the final against Auckland.  

3^rd vs 4^th

In a game with plenty of big hits, Whaanui and Wai-Coa-Bay both put it all out there from the opening whistle. Trading two tries each it was only one conversion that separated them at half time, Wai-Coa-Bay up 14-12.

In the second half Wai-Coa-Bay were first to get on the board, a kick chase recovered and passed through to see the team extend their lead. With one more try they had the ascendancy at 24-12.  

But again, Whaanui showed incredible spirit, fighting their way back into the game. After two tries, Whaanui were able to lock the score up at 24 all, the final hooter going off and the two teams sharing 3^rd place.  

Final

With the inaugural title, and bragging rights on the line, Auckland lined up against trans-Tasman rivals Queensland, hoping to keep the trophy in Aotearoa.  

However, Queensland showcased their skill in the first 10 mins, dotting over three times to take the lead to 12-0.  

But Auckland was determined to get back into it. Off a goal line drop out, Auckland were able to slice through the opposition, regather the kick and score at the other end to take it to 12-4.  

Unfortunately, Queensland were able to dot down another two times before half time, 22-4 seeing them with a lead that would be hard to pull back.  

Although Queensland were first to score in the second half, again Auckland fought back immediately with two tries of their own. 28-14 and Auckland needed to continue the momentum.  

It wasn’t to be though. Another 20 points on the board for Queensland putting the trophy all but in their hands. Despite one more try to Auckland, the buzzer goes off and Queensland are crowned the champions, the final score 48-20.  

Tournament MVP: Nikia Fa'atau

The countdown to the biggest and most competitive Rugby League World Cup is entering its final stages, with just one month to go until the heavyweight showdown between the Kangaroos and Kiwis kicks off the tournament at Allianz Stadium on October 15.

The blockbuster clash reignites one of the international game’s greatest rivalries as Australia, the 2025 Ashes Series winners, take on Pacific Cup champions New Zealand before what is set to be the biggest international rugby league crowd in Sydney for almost two decades.

More than 150,000 tickets have already been sold as anticipation builds for Rugby League World Cup 2026, which involves 26 teams representing 14 nations in three tournaments -Men's, Women's and Wheelchair.

Staged across nine cities in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, RLWC26 features 53 matches in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Port Moresby, Christchurch, Newcastle, Wollongong, Gold Coast and Townsville.

The Kangaroos-Kiwis clash is set to be the most attended international rugby league fixture in Sydney since 34,157 fans packed Allianz Stadium for the opening match of the 2008 World Cup between the trans-Tasman rivals.

The tournament culminates on November 15 at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium, where theMen's and Women's World Cup champions will be crowned after a month of intense competition.

Fans are encouraged to secure their seats now as RLWC26 features a number of must-see matches, including:

• England v Tonga at HBF Park on October 17
• Fiji v Cook Islands at McDonald Jones Stadium on October 18
• Tonga v Lebanon at CommBank Stadium on October 23
• Australia v Fiji at Suncorp Stadium on October 25
• England v Papua New Guinea at WIN Stadium on October 30
• New Zealand v Fiji at Cbus Super Stadium on October 31
• Australia v Cook Islands at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on October 31
• Samoa v Tonga at CommBank Stadium on November 1

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Rugby League World Cup 2026 will also showcase the best of the Women’s game, with the Jillaroos opening two matches against Samoa at CommBank Stadium on October 14 and England at HBF Stadium on October 26 to be played in prime time broadcast slots.

For the first time, Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair matches will be played alongside each other in Wollongong on October 30 – featuring all three England teams in back-to-back fixtures

Established in 1954, the Rugby League World Cup is the second oldest sporting World Cup and the 17th edition shapes as the most competitive and unpredictable yet.

The rise of Pacific nations has transformed the international game and traditional powerhouses Australia, New Zealand and England are no longer assured of dominating.

Led by Jason Taumalolo, Tonga ignited a rugby league revolution at RLWC2017 before Samoa became the first Pacific nation to reach a World Cup final in 2022 against Australia at Old Trafford.

Since then, New Zealand have won two Pacific Championships, inflicting a record 30-0defeat of Australia in the 2023 final.

Tonga qualified for the 2024 Pacific Cup final while Samoa has continued to establish themselves among the game's elite nations by reaching last year’s decider.

Papua New Guinea are also on the rise after winning the Pacific Bowl for the past three years and with the introduction of the Chiefs, while Fiji have been semi-finalists at three of the past four World Cups.

Cook Islands are set to field their strongest team yet while Lebanon and France will be dangerous and unpredictable opponents, and England have a point to prove.

With a unique tournament format featuring crossover matches and head-to-head results playing a crucial role in determining semi-final positions, every match is must-win.

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MEN

The 10-team Men's World Cup will feature one pool of four nations and two pools of three nations.

Group A: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands

Group B: England, Samoa, Lebanon

Group C: Tonga, Papua New Guinea, France

The Men's tournament begins on October 15 with Australia facing New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, while England's opening clash against Tonga at Perth's HBF Park on October 17 is set to be another highlight of the opening weekend.

The Group stage concludes with a showdown between Pacific rivals Tonga and Samoa at CommBank Stadium on November 1 that could determine which nation progresses to the semi-final stage.

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WOMEN

The Women's Rugby League World Cup promises to be the most competitive ever, with eight nations vying for international supremacy.

While the Jillaroos remain the benchmark, the ongoing growth of the NRLW competition and changing international eligibility rules have dramatically strengthened rival nations.

The Kiwi Ferns continue to build a formidable squad, while England, Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea are set to be bolstered by NRLW stars.

Group A: Australia, England, Samoa, Wales
Group B: New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, France, Fiji

The Women's tournament begins on October 16 when Australia faces Samoa as part of a double-header with the Men's clash between Samoa and France at CommBank Stadium.

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WHEELCHAIR

The Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup will once again highlight why rugby league is known as the greatest game for all.

Defending champions England are aiming to secure back-to-back World Cup titles, while France seeks redemption after their heartbreaking defeat in the 2022 final. Australia will be chasing history by winning a Wheelchair World Cup on home soil.

All Wheelchair World Cup matches will be staged at Wollongong's WIN Entertainment Centre, with the opening games on October 30 and the final to be played on November 13.

Group A: England, Ireland, Wales, USA
Group B: France, Australia, Scotland, New Zealand

One of the most unique days of RLWC2026 will occur on October 30 when England's Wheelchair team opens its campaign against Wales before the England Men's and Women's teams take the field at the adjoining WIN Stadium in a historic festival of international rugby league.

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Tickets and draw: rlwc2026.com

All matches will be broadcast live and exclusive in Australia on Seven and 7plus, onSky Sport in New Zealand and Digicel in Papua New Guinea.

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As seen on rlwc2026.com

The final day of the North Island tournament in Hastings and South Island tournament in Christchurch determined the National Sky Sport Women’s Premiership Grand Finalists and the National Men’s Premiership semi-finalists, set to take place in Auckland in two weeks’ time.

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National Men's Premiership semi-finals

Saturday 26 September | Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland

Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Otago Whalers

Canterbury Bulls vs Auckland Vulcans

Grand Final Sunday 27 September | Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland

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National Sky Sport Women's Premiership Grand Final

Sunday 27 September | Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland

Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Wellington Orcas

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National Men's Premiership wrap up

North Island

Day 2 of the North Island tournament delivered comebacks and upsets with the race for second spot going down to the final round. In Round 1, the Akarana Falcons fought back from 22-6 down at half-time to defeat the Auckland Vulcans and keep their semi-final hopes alive. Halfback Cassius Tia was instrumental in the comeback, putting on a masterclass with four try assists and four conversions. A Bay of Plenty default then cemented Counties Manukau’s position at the top of the standings, guaranteeing them a place in the semi-finals.

With Waikato, Auckland and Akarana all still in contention for second, the final round was crucial. Auckland put the pressure on with a dominant 36-6 victory over Waikato, led by a double from Tumua Soo-Choon and four conversions from Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo. With everything to play for, Akarana put up a valiant fight against Counties. Trailing just 10-0 at half-time, the Falcons crossed early in the second half, before Counties hit back to extend their lead to 16-4. Akarana responded with two more tries to close the gap, but with neither converted and the clock running down, the Falcons ultimately fell 16-12. The result saw the Vulcans claim second spot and secure the final semi-final spot on points differential.

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South Island

On Day 1 of the South Island Men’s Premiership tournament, the Canterbury Bulls went undefeated to secure the top spot and a place in Sunday’s placing final, as well as a guaranteed trip to the National Premiership semi-finals. It was far from an easy run, with the Bulls edging the Otago Whalers 34-32 before narrowly overcoming the Wellington Orcas 14-10. Otago finished second after a dominant 30-14 victory over Wellington, followed by a tight 22-20 win over the Southland Stags.

In Sunday’s placing final, the hosts delivered a classy performance in front of a strong home crowd, running out 42-8 winners to claim first place in the South Island competition. The result sets up a National Premiership semi-final against the North Island’s Auckland Vulcans, while the second-placed Whalers will face Counties Manukau in the other semi-final.

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National Sky Sport Women's Premiership wrap up

At the start of Day 2, Counties Manukau solidified their position at the top of the standings and locked in a Grand Final berth with a dominant 54-6 victory over Akarana.

With the second Grand Final spot still up for grabs between Akarana, Canterbury and Wellington, the final round was pivotal. Counties continued their strong form, defeating Canterbury 20-4, knocking the side out of contention and completing their undefeated tournament run. Although Auckland were already out of the title race with only one win, they had nothing to lose heading into their final game against fellow Aucklanders Akarana. They produced a strong performance to cause a 16-10 upset, with winger Jeyla Ropati scoring a double. That result left the door open for Wellington, who delivered a dominant 48-0 victory over Waikato to claim the second Grand Final spot ahead of Akarana on points differential. Siaiga Filipo and Manaia Maxwell-Puohotaua both crossed twice, while Maia Rickard contributed a 12-point haul to round out a convincing performance.

With the sun shining and supporters filling the stands and embankments, the 2026 National Championship Grand Finals got underway at Hastings’ Mitre 10 Sports Park yesterday.

After two days of hard-fought competition, the final two teams in each grade took to the field with national honours on the line. The Men’s and Women’s Championship finals delivered plenty of physicality, determination and attacking flair. For the Hawke’s Bay Unicorns, home-field advantage and strong local support provided extra motivation, while Coastline and reigning champions Northland arrived determined to cap off their campaigns with Championship titles.

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National Men's Championship Grand Final

Coastline 44 Hawke's Bay 20

The first half was a tight contest, with home side the Hawke’s Bay Unicorns hitting the ground running to open the scoring through fullback Meri Manase in the second minute. Coastline responded soon after, going on a three-try streak before the match settled into a try-for-try battle. Hawke’s Bay speedster Aminiasi Koroi broke down the right wing to score the final try of the half, putting the score at 24-16 to Coastline.

The Liners pulled away in the second half, adding three more tries to their tally, while the Unicorns managed just one more through winger Marky Ewart. Coastline’s Petelo Potter finished with a double, while halfback Connor Hohepa was reliable off the tee with five goals. Coastline were crowned the 2026 Men’s Championship winners, 44-20 the final score.

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National Women's Championship Grand Final

Northland 26 Hawke's Bay 0

Similarly to the men’s final, the opening half of the Women’s Grand Final was a physical battle, with both sides struggling to break through the other's tough defensive line. Both teams came close to opening the scoring, but it was the reigning champions Northland who eventually found a way through in the tenth minute. Their left edge proved a handful, with winger Lyric Taylor crossing twice to give Northland a 10-0 lead at halftime.

The Northland wāhine solidified their lead in the second half, returning to their dangerous left edge for Taylor to cross twice more and complete a four-try haul. Strong defence kept the Unicorns scoreless, before Dahlia Hill crossed late to put the finishing touches on a convincing victory and secure Northland’s second consecutive Women’s Championship title.

A fantastic day of footy unfolded across the grounds at Hastings Mitre 10 Sports Park, with whānau and supporters turning out in force to back the competing men and women in the National Championships and Premierships.

The Championship teams battled it out for a place in their respective Grand Finals set for tomorrow, while the Premiership sides fought for the top-two finishes that would earn them a shot at the Grand Final and national titles, to be contested in Auckland on Sunday 27 September.

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Sunday 13 September

Mitre 10 Sports Park, Hastings

Men's Championship final | Hawke's Bay v Coastline 2:20pm, live on Sky Sport

Women's Championship final | TBC 3:45pm, live on Sky Sport

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Men's Championship

Round 1 of the Men’s Championship saw the Hawke’s Bay Unicorns edge 2025 champions Te Tai Tokerau 36-24 in a high-scoring battle, with the host-team's standout Leighton Shaw finishing with 12 points through a try and four successful conversions. Coastline were too strong for Whangārei City Districts, running out 40-20 winners, although the Northland side produced a great second-half comeback after trailing 34-0 at the break.

Round 2 determined the finalists, with the Unicorns putting on a dominant display against Whangārei to win 58-14. Hooker Chaz Gillies crossed for a hat-trick, while Dayton Birch and Fraser Taurima-Hepi both grabbed doubles. Coastline also secured a convincing 44-10 win over Tai Tokerau, setting up a Hawke’s Bay versus Coastline showdown for the 2026 Men’s Championship title.

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Women's Championship

The Women’s Championship was a much closer affair, with reigning champions Northland finishing the day unbeaten following a tough 14-4 victory over the host Hawke's Bay team and a more convincing 30-6 win over Manawatū. The Unicorns finished the day second on the leaderboard after securing a 20-6 win over the Bay of Plenty Lakers, while Manawatū sit third following a 30-18 victory also over the Lakers, but with a lower points differential, their halfback Jheri-kah Hoet accounting for 10 of their points. The opening round of Day 2 will be crucial in determining the finalists, with Hawke’s Bay and Manawatū set to face off in a key clash while Bay of Plenty are out of title contention.

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Men's Premiership

Reigning champions the Counties Manukau Stingrays dominated Day 1, opening with a 54-12 win over Waikato before backing it up with a 26-4 victory over the Auckland Vulcans to finish the day undefeated and firmly at the top of the table. Three teams are locked on equal points, separated only by points differential. Waikato produced an outstanding comeback to upset the Akarana Falcons, overturning a 16-4 half-time deficit to secure a 28-22 win and finish the day in second. Akarana still remain in contention, sitting third on the table after a commanding 74-0 win over Bay of Plenty. Nearly half of Akarana’s points came from half-back Cassius Tia, who finished with a hat-trick and 11 successful conversions for a haul of 34 points. The Vulcans sit fourth, just 16 points behind Akarana on points differential, after also recording a 74-0 shutout against Bay of Plenty. Stand-off Leti Muller contributed 24 points, scoring a try and converting 10 goals.

The result sees Bay of Plenty drop out of contention while Waikato, Akarana and Auckland remain in the hunt. Day 2 will determine the finalists, with Akarana set to face both the Vulcans and Counties Manukau, while Waikato and the Vulcans will also go head-to-head. By the end of the day, national semi-finalists will be decided to play off against the top two South Island teams to earn a shot at the national title.

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Sky Sport Women's Premiership

Similarly to the Men’s Premiership, returning champions Counties Manukau Stingrays dominated Day 1, recording three wins from three, which saw high schooler Alaina Lauitiiti cross for a hat-trick in their 42-0 victory over Waikato. The Akarana Falcons women sit second on the table with the same number of points, but trail Counties by 68 points on differential. Canterbury are just two points behind after tough wins over Auckland and Waikato, while Wellington sit on two points following a victory over Auckland. Both Auckland and Waikato are out of contention after losing all three of their matches on Day 1.

A top-of-the-table clash between Counties and Akarana headlines Round 1 of Day 2, while Canterbury and Wellington will also go head-to-head. The top two finishers at the end of the day will advance directly to the National Grand Final on Sunday 27 September in Auckland.

The 2026 NZRL Taurahere representative matches kick off tomorrow Sunday 13 September at the Gold Coast Sports Precinct, featuring some of the best Kiwi youth in Australia.

Taurahere is the NZRL representative programme for selected emerging Kiwi youth residing in Australia, returning this year featuring an inaugural Under-19 Girls fixture alongside the traditional Under-19 Boys match.

The programme provides Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns-eligible players living in Australia with the opportunity to reconnect with Aotearoa and strengthen their cultural identity through rugby league. Whānau back in Aotearoa and across Australia can watch the matches live on Bar TV.

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Sunday 13 September

Gold Coast Sports Precinct, 296 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara

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Girls Wāhine TŪ (NSW) v Wāhine TOA (QLD) 11:00 AM AEST, 1:00 PM NZST

Watch live on Bar TV https://www.bartvsports.com.au/rugby-league/260913-video-international-rl-women-s-wahine-toa-v-wahine-tu/

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Boys TŪ (NSW) v TOA (QLD) 12.30 PM AEST, 2:30 PM NZST

Watch live on Bar TV https://www.bartvsports.com.au/rugby-league/260913-video-international-rl-men-s-toa-v-tu/

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NZRL U19 Taurahere Girls & Boys teams

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Wāhine Tū | New South Wales

Shafenior Lui

Shanthie Lui

Limilaiti Paea

Catea Duff

Jessamine Aloalii

Ella Ropata

Bailey Lana Ma-Chong

Alleya Scrivens

Saige Tautalafua

Monica Ben

Irae Savea

Te Raukura Leafe

Riley Fruean

Mia Vaotu’ua

Naioka Tuipulotu

Julliana Kolio

Paige Tauaneai

Giovanna Suani

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Wāhine Toa | Queensland

Nivea Te Hokowhitu-Wynne

Olivia Filikitonga

Rangitiare Graham

Ava Kinikinilau

Sualo Lafoga

Bailee Drossaerts Lake

Mercedez Lisone Siaea

Iris Skeen

Sophie Parker-Cornelius

Lauryn Martin

Elishama Suavai

Genesis Tupa'i

Kayshana Rapana

Mia Ualesi

Sinalei Tupu

Tarryn McLatchie

Tiaho Mai Rangi Te Waiarani Wharawhara-Muriwai

Shya Peri

Desiyah Waipari-Leef

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Boys Tū | New South Wales

Caleb Fesolai

Joshua Fesolai

Phillip Lavakeiaho

Te Paeroa Wineera

Lockyer-Azile Foliola

Isaac Fotu-Moala

Alize Clarke

Dean Tauaa

Matthew Kereti

Jack Dean-Potaka

Zaylen Ekepati

Makisi Paea

Rhymen Tuilagi-tusi

Azariah Toki-Mautairi

Osaiasi Manu

Jerome Cosgrave

Waka Hammond

Jeziah Tua’au

Fine Fale

Isaiah Savea

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Boys Toa | Queensland

Charlie Dickson

Marley Igasan

Ezra Leota

Fa’apale Feaunati

Adaquix-Jeramiah Watts-Luke

Duquan Talaepa

Siosaia Piese

Santino Pekepo-Tevaga

Torino Jackson

Viliami Fifita

Tyler Pereira

Sitiveni Afu

Payton Gifford

Devin Bates-Wellington

Noah Fien

Eneliko Savelio

Azaiah Maile

Ruben Webb

David Bryenton

Mordecai Ngawati

This weekend, the Southland, Otago, Canterbury, and Wellington premier men's teams will compete in the NZRL Men’s Premiership South Island tournament, held at Christchurch's Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub from September 12-13.

This tournament is the introduction of a revised National Premiership structure, with the tournament format replacing the previous weekly competition model. The Men’s Premiership will continue to operate across two (2) pools; North and South. The top two (2) teams from both the South Island and North Island tournaments will progress to the national semi-finals in Auckland on Saturday 26 September, before the Grand Final is played on Sunday 27 September.

Also taking place this weekend is the Men's Premiership North Island tournament and the Sky Sport National Women's Premiership tournament. The Women’s tournament will see all six Premiership teams compete, with the top two (2) finishing teams advancing directly to the National Grand Final in Auckland on Sunday 27 September, alongside the men’s final.

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Draw

Draw and results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-mens-premiership

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Parking

If you’re driving, access the main Ngā Puna Wai carpark by following the signs from Augustine Drive, off Halswell Road in Halswell.

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Food

Ngā Puna Wai has an on-site café, Catering in a Box, located in the Te Kōhanga o Ngā Puna Wai building behind the Field 1 grandstand, next to the hockey turf.

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Keep up with all the tournament action on NZRL’s grassroots social media platforms: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots

Our Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award celebrates and recognises heroes from our grassroots rugby league community across Aotearoa for their hard mahi, dedicated to our game. This award is given to volunteers who display the core values of The Kiwi Way: being family first, innovative, inclusive, respectful, and humble.

We are proud to announce our final winner for 2026, the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award for August goes to Zane Rau from the Portland Panthers Rugby League Club in Northland.

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Over the past year and prior, Zane has carried out great mahi in Northland, especially across the female and rangatahi spaces in clubs, schools, and representative teams.

This year Zane assisted in coaching the Portland Panthers 16s and 18s girls, the Hokianga 15s girls, the Northern Swords 14s girls and women's teams, and more ,including touch and rippa rugby teams.

As a coach, he actively organises and supports trainings, helps with team logistics, encourages players and other coaches, and is always keen to complete coaching courses to learn and develop so he can coach to the best of his ability.

Often working behind the scenes, Zane is also a reliable presence who helps motivate those around him and keep things moving. He contributes to kaupapa that create better opportunities for young people both on and off the field, as well as whakaaro to strengthen the wider community.

Zane has continuously committed his time and energy to growing opportunities for Northland, with a strong focus on discipline, development, and whanaungatanga. His mahi may not always be loud, but it is consistent, dependable, and grounded in a genuine desire to see better outcomes for rangatahi.

Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke shared, "Congratulations Zane on being named the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month. Zane’s dedication to rugby league and developing our rangatahi is truly inspiring. From coaching and mentoring multiple teams to creating extra opportunities for young players to grow, he consistently gives his time wherever it’s needed.

"His mahi may often happen behind the scenes, but the impact he has on players, whānau and the wider league community is huge. Congratulations Zane, and thank you for everything you do for our game and our communities!"

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Know a volunteer who does exceptional mahi? Help us celebrate these grassroots heroes by nominating them for the next Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award.

‍Each monthly winner will receive $200 worth of vouchers and have their story shared across our channels.

Make a nomination here: https://share.hsforms.com/2Lq4cbueQRVCRwqK8vsfK_Qsy1ug

Just three days remain until the NZRL Men’s Premiership North Pool, National Women’s Premiership, and National Men’s and Women’s Championship tournaments kick off in Hastings. The action gets underway this weekend, September 12-13, at Mitre 10 Sports Park, with the tournaments hosted in partnership with Rugby League Hawke’s Bay.

This weekend introduces a revised Premiership structure with the tournament format replacing the previous weekly competition model. The Men’s Premiership will continue to operate across two (2) pools; North and South. The top two (2) teams from both the North Island and South Island tournaments will progress to the national semi-finals in Auckland on Saturday 26 September, before the Grand Final is played on Sunday 27 September.

The Women’s Premiership tournament will see all six Premiership teams compete, with the top two (2) finishing teams advancing directly to the National Grand Final in Auckland on Sunday 27 September, alongside the men’s final.

In the National Championship, Northland, Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay, and Manawatū will compete for the women's title, while Te Tai Tokerau, Whangārei City Districts, Coastline, and Hawke's Bay will contend in the men's grade. Both Championship Grand Finals will take place on Sunday afternoon.

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Draws and Broadcast

All draws and results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-mens-premiership

All upcoming NZRL national tournaments will be exclusively broadcast on Sky Sport. Across both tournament days in Hastings, games on Field 1, including both Championship grand finals on Sunday, will be live broadcast.

For a $59.99 monthly Sky Sport Now pass, watch NZRL's National Men's and Women's Championships, National Men's Premiership, Sky Sport National Women's Premiership, and National Youth Tournament - as well as all the NRL and NRLW action, with NRL playoffs kicking off this week.

Broadcast replays will be uploaded to the NZRL YouTube channel in the following day/s.

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Parking

Main entry to the park and carparks is via Percival Road, see the Park Map here.

Games will be played across Sports Fields 1-5.

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Food

A number of delicious food vendors will be on site throughout the weekend for supporters, whānau, and players to enjoy, including Crunch Culture Chicken, Sea's Up kaimoana, TC's Fun 4 Kids, Bean Drinkin' coffee, and Boost Espresso.

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Keep up with all the tournament action on NZRL’s grassroots social media platforms: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots

New Zealand Rugby League and Canterbury Rugby League very sadly mourn the loss of eight-Test Kiwi and Canterbury great, Jim Fisher, Kiwi #423.

Jim was a talented hooker and prop who represented Canterbury and clubs Linwood, Addington, and Eastern Suburbs.

The 1955-56 Schoolboy Kiwi debuted for Canterbury at just 18-years-old in 1960 and scored three tries in six matches for the Kiwis in Australia in 1963 (non-Tests). He also featured in the South Island’s win over the 1963 South African tourists.

He earned his New Zealand Kiwis Test debut later in 1971, featuring at hooker throughout their historic tour of Britain and France. The oldest player in the Lory Blanchard-coached side, Fisher played all six Tests on tour as the Kiwis created history with a 2-1 series victory over Great Britain and a 2-0 series win against France.

He toured with the Kiwis in Australia again in 1972 and played both Tests, but ruled himself out of contention for the end-of-season World Cup by retiring from representative football, also making the last of his 42 appearances for Canterbury that year.

Fisher later served as a Canterbury selector in 1975 and coached the provincial team in 1976.

We offer our deepest condolences to Jim's whānau, friends, former teammates, and all who knew and loved Jim, during this difficult time. Moe mai rā, Jim.

Drinkware brand Hydro Flask has partnered with New Zealand Rugby League as a partner of the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns, and Wheel Kiwis for 2026.

Hydro Flask’s extensive range of durable, reusable drinkware is designed to keep beverages cold or hot for hours, bringing a shared commitment to performance and an active lifestyle to our partnership.

NZRL GM of Football and High Performance Motu Tony said,

“Hydro Flask’s focus on durability and creating products built to support active lifestyles makes them a great fit for rugby league and we’re excited to partner with them this year.

“From training and preparation through to performance and recovery, Hydro Flask will support our Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns, and Wheel Kiwis athletes as they compete on the world stage this year.”

Jonathan Lopes Da Silva, Co-CEO of Compendium Group, distributor of Hydro Flask in Australia and New Zealand, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to partner with New Zealand Rugby League and support the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis in 2026.

“For us, this partnership is about more than hydration. It’s about supporting incredible athletes as they train, travel and compete, and being a small part of their journey as they represent New Zealand on the world stage. We can’t wait to see Hydro Flask alongside the teams throughout what is set to be a huge year for New Zealand rugby league.”

Girls Championship

Grand Final | Auckland Girls' Grammar School 20 vs Rotorua Girls' High School 6

With a repeat title win on the line, Auckland Girls’ (AGGS) came out firing, crossing for two early tries through left-side centre Tylah Fa’alili. The remainder of the first half was a hard-fought arm wrestle, with both sides producing determined defence to keep each other scoreless. AGGS carried their momentum into the second half, extending their lead after Tania Savali gathered an expert chip and raced through to score. Another try to left edge player Casey Toese-Misa looked to have all but sealed the title for AGGS. The Rotorua side found a way across the tryline through a powerful charge by forward Amber Albrecht, with Kesia Ngaheu adding the conversion to put extra points on the board. The final score 20-6, AGGS successfully secured their second consecutive NZSS Girls Championship title.

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Bowl final (5th/6th) | Avondale College 12 vs Kelston Girls' High School 8

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16s Girls Tournament Team

1 Kimora-Lee Lisone | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

2 Leonie Bradbrooke | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

3 Tylah Fa'alili | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

4 Elisa Pasene | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

5 Alyssa-Mei Leauga | Avondale College

6 Fabianni Napara | Hamilton Girls' High School

7 Sofia Tovio-Smith | Hamilton Girls' High School

8 Stevie-Lea Peri | Te Wharekura o te Kaokaoroa o Pātetere

9 Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

10 Briarley McGee | Kelston Girls' College

11 Choicey Kuli | Kelston Girls' College

12 Jovana Paselio | Manurewa High School

13 Caitlyn Pohahau | McAuley High School

14 Keiti Tupou | McAuley High School

15 Piper Thompson | Rotorua Girls' High School

16 Presley McGarvey | Rotorua Girls' High School

17 Asaiah Kinghazel | Rotorua Girls' High School

18 Francella Nafoi-Seumalo | Tauranga Girls' College

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New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Girls Team

Casey Toese-Misa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Caszius Fatialofa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Jada-Breeze Gray | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Lala Vaea | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Sari Iefata | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Suraya Kingi | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Akeliana-Faith Leauga | Avondale College

Khaidyn-Bre Teau | Avondale College

Ava-Lea Maxwell-Ogilvy | Avonside Girls' High School

Metua Cranwell | Avonside Girls' High School

Tiahomoana Morgan | Avonside Girls' High School

Ryteous Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

Alaina Lauitiiti | McAuley High School

Kaiarihi Puku | Rotorua Girls' High School

Kianah-Jade Cullen-Te Kawa | Rotorua Girls' High School

Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School

Stevie Makiha | Rotorua Girls' High School

Shakira Lui | Southern Cross Campus

Selu Ika | Te Haikura a Kiwa

Maya Tebbutt | Tokoroa High School/St. Peter's Cambridge

Emerging Player of the Tournament

Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

Player of the Tournament

‍Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School

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Boys Premiership

In the early morning Premiership semi-finals, Kelston made light work of Southern Cross, finishing 54-0 winners to book their place in the Grand Final and earn the chance to defend their title.

The St. Paul’s and St. Thomas match-up was a much tighter battle, with plenty of support lining the sidelines as both teams fought for a spot in the decider. St. Paul’s opened the scoring before St. Thomas hit back with a try and successful conversion to take a 6-4 lead into half-time. St. Paul’s quickly responded after the break to reclaim the lead 10-6 setting up an intense back-and-forth contest. Both sides put their bodies on the line in a fierce defensive battle, repeatedly denying each other opportunities to break away. With the game in the balance, St. Thomas produced a dramatic finish on the hooter, with Hemiata Togia crossing for a miracle try near the sticks, successfully kicked by Pesamino Elia to seal the win and send St. Thomas through to the Grand Final.

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Grand Final | Kelston Boys' High School 30 vs St. Thomas of Canterbury College 6

Entering the Grand Final undefeated, Kelston were first on the scoreboard, with fullback Kaian Olsen crossing early to score what would be his first try of the day. The remainder of the first half was a hard-fought battle, with the Cantabrians finding their way across the line in the 15th minute courtesy of hooker Nikora Mata’afa. Kelston quickly responded with a try of their own before the break, Olsen grabbing his second to give the West Auckland school a 12-6 lead at half-time. Just five minutes into the second half Kelston extended their lead, sparking an onslaught of tries that saw the defending champions pull away and ultimately seal the Premiership title for a second consecutive year, 30-6. Noah Hollands was successful off the tee for the winners, kicking five from five.

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Bowl final (5th/6th) | De La Salle College 34 vs Manurewa High School 6

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Boys Championship

Grand Final | Shirley Boys' High School 18 vs New Plymouth Boys' High School 12

The Taranaki side took control early in the final, scoring two tries while keeping Shirley Boys’ scoreless to take an 8-0 lead into half-time. They continued their scoring momentum after the break, adding another try to extend their advantage to 12-0. But Christchurch's Shirley Boys’ were not going down without a fight, hitting back with their first try of the game before successfully converting to close the gap. The try sparked a remarkable comeback, with Shirley Boys’ finding their rhythm and crossing again before adding the conversion to level the scores at 12-all. With momentum firmly on their side, they completed the turnaround with another try to seal the win, Mahuru Watene finishing the match with a double.

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Plate final (17th/18th) | Te Kura o Manutūkē Tairawhiti 22 vs Hobsonville Point Secondary School (composite Lynfield) 0

Bowl final (9th/10th) | Tokoroa High School vs Tamaki College

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New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Boys Team

Frank Sio | De La Salle College

Jeremiah Lemana | Kelston Boys' High School

Kaian Olsen | Kelston Boys' High School

Maddax Bernard | Kelston Boys' High School

Noah Hollands | Kelston Boys' High School

Parekaahu Keepa | Kelston Boys' High School

Rico Finau | Kelston Boys' High School

Rilee Higgins | Kelston Boys' High School

Ronley Kolomalu | Kelston Boys' High School

Satali Asolelei-Fretton | Kelston Boys' High School

Mahuru Watene | Shirley Boys' High School

Mosese Tolutau | Southern Cross Campus

Daniel Kali | St. Paul's College

Giovanni Meisake | St. Paul's College

Memphys Luka | St. Paul's College

Siaosi Alatini | St. Paul's College

Siokatame Kali | St. Paul's College

Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Kenny Lafituanai | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Pesamino Elia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Emerging Player of the Tournament

Taimana Kaa-Mackie | Shirley Boys' High School

Player of the Tournament

‍Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

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See all results www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl

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