Fifty years on: Celebrating 1971 Kiwis' historic odyssey
06 September 2021
From an age when sporting tours were more akin to odysseys, the Kiwis’ 1971 trek to Britain and France was and always will be among the most remarkable in New Zealand sporting history.
Across 86 days the New Zealanders crammed in 26 matches – six of them Tests – and achieved the singular feat of winning the series against Great Britain 2-0 and backed it up with a 2-0 result in France.
In doing so the Lory Blanchard-coached, Roy Christian-led Kiwis completed an unprecedented sweep which had started with a stunning four-tries-to-one 24-3 upset of the world champion Kangaroos at Carlaw Park in late June.
While the All Golds had beaten the Northern Union 2-1 on their trailblazing 1906-08 tour, the 1971 Kiwis were the first official New Zealand team to win a series in the United Kingdom.
It all comes back into focus now in recalling this tour of all tours kicking off 50 years to the day – September 4, 1971 – in the Lancashire town of Rochdale at the foothills of the South Pennines.
The very mention of the tour is at once evocative, memories flooding back of all manner of deeds and details.
Among them is the vivid recollection as a 16-year-old schoolboy waking up in the early hours to listen to the excitable Murray King’s commentary on a trusty transistor under the pillow (no live television then, of course). And quite some time later there were BBC television replays aided - and perhaps abetted - by unique commentator Eddie Waring’s Yorkshire brogue.
However, marking the 50th anniversary of this story of such spectacular triumph against all odds is also clouded in so much sadness, for now but 13 of the 26 players who toured are still alive; only recently two more of this special crew passed away, standoff-halfback Gary Woollard last month and fellow halfback Shane Dowsett in June.
The first to pass away was goal-kicking front rower Henry Tatana (1998) followed by hooker Bill Burgoyne (1999), prop Doug Gailey (2007), winger Bob McGuinn (2012), loose forward Tony Kriletich (2016), winger Phil Orchard (2018), centre John O’Sullivan (2018), second rower Bill Deacon (2019), fullback Mike McClennan (2019), prop Robert Orchard (2020) and fullback John Whittaker (2020). Blanchard passed away in 2013.
If the win over Australia offered hope heading into the tour it was seemingly eroded by the Kiwis’ form in the opening matches.
In an era when the four-tackle rule was in force - and hometown referees were the norm - the Kiwis beat the Rochdale Hornets 23-8 to open their account but faced a frantic schedule with six matches in the space of 14 days leading into the first Test at The Willows in Salford; their only other win was over Widnes while losses to St Helens, Hull Kingston Rovers, Castleford and Warrington suggested the first Test would be beyond them.
And when coach Blanchard revealed his side for the opening Test there was more than a degree of incredulity with his choice of John Whittaker at fullback. He hadn’t played there in the lead-up matches but Blanchard had three exceptional wingers in Phil Orchard, Mocky Brereton and Whittaker and felt they all needed to play. What a masterstroke it would prove to be turning Whittaker into a fullback.
Another standout feature of the first Test side was the inclusion of the gifted Dennis Williams at standoff. Turning 18 just the day before his international debut, he was outstanding leaving his mark with a sizzling stepping run on his way to a brilliant first half try.
Despite that, the Kiwis were 12-13 down at halftime but had a 15-13 lead through the powerful Phil Orchard early in the second half. Nervously they clung to the advantage until another Orchard try – this time the equally potent Robert – powered over close to the posts. Tatana failed to convert from the handy angle but the Kiwis negotiated the final hectic minutes to secure a stunning 18-13 win.
WATCH FIRST TEST v GREAT BRITAIN
In their next four matches they beat Barrow, Whitehaven and Wigan while dropping a midweek clash against Swinton.
Great Britain made numerous changes for the second Test at Wheldon Road in Castleford – including recalling feisty halfback Alex Murphy – in a desperate effort to level the series. Also selected was former Welsh rugby union star David Watkins making his Great Britain Test debut.
The changes were working well when the home side led 8-0 and then ominously extended to 11-0 after Roger Millward ducked under high tackles and scooted to score wide out.
The Kiwis struck back with a sensational near length-of-the-field try sparked by a wonderful Dennis Williams break; he linked with speedster Phil Orchard on halfway, the winger burning off the cover for his first try of the contest. A Tatana penalty soon after left the Kiwis 5-11 behind at halftime.
Soon after the break they were in again, Phil Orchard stretching the defence with an electric carry. On the next tackle halfback Ken Stirling was at dummy half for a rehearsed play working a slick scissors move which had all the forwards in motion. Second rower John Greengrass crossed to the right, prop Doug Gailey headed wide to the left and the others moved up the middle, Stirling picking up a steaming Tatana who charged over to score.
At 10-11 the Kiwis were right back in it and soon after came one of two heroic defensive plays which would prove critical to the result.
WATCH SECOND TEST v GREAT BRITAIN
This one unfolded as winger Joe Walsh cut through and was in the process of putting the ball down only for a desperate Stirling to jolt the ball loose in a last-ditch try-saving tackle.
Not long after a shocking late and high shot from Murphy flattened the courageous Stirling, an act which was ignored by match officials but ended the Kiwi halfback’s involvement in the match.
A Tatana penalty edged the Kiwis ahead 12-11, Watkins missed a long-range penalty but then winger Clive Sullivan had Great Britain ahead 14-12.
There it stayed until the Kiwis attacked from depth again, shifting the ball across field to the right where centre Roy Christian released the destructive Orchard some 60 metres from the line. Orchard’s combination of speed, strength and balance was breathtaking as he diced with the touchline, stumbled after bumping off fullback Derek Edwards but then scrambled over for a try of exceptional quality and one of major moment.
Tatana converted splendidly from wide out to put the Kiwis 17-14 ahead facing a frenetic final stanza if they were to take out the match and clinch the series.
And now came the most astonishing and vital defensive act of the game. Great Britain attacked relentlessly, the Kiwis repelled them but then Mike Stephenson created space on the left edge for replacement winger Billy Benyon. He was airborne and set to score when out of nowhere loose forward Tony Kriletich launched to knock the ball out of Benyon’s grasp. Not just a match winner but a series clincher. History.
After such a climax the Kiwis lapsed with three straight losses, won three and then lost again in a scarcely believable schedule of seven matches in 14 days ahead of the third Test.
The New Zealanders couldn’t complete a clean sweep going down 3-12 to the Brits in Leeds before blitzing France 27-11 and 24-2 in the first two Tests (Orchard with five tries in total) and winding up the tour with a 3-3 draw in the third Test.
Among a long list of outstanding performers Phil Orchard was an absolute standout. He missed just seven matches on tour, scoring 27 tries in his 19 appearances including eight in five Tests.
Holding it all together was a wonderful leader in Roy Christian, a man held in such high esteem. History sadly shows no New Zealand rugby league player has ever been knighted; Christian would be highly deserving and, had he played another code, he surely would have been recognised years ago.
Barring continued Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, Christian and a group of the surviving members of the famed 1971 Kiwis will be saluted at the ex-Kiwis’ annual reunion traditionally held in October.
Theirs will always be a story and time in New Zealand sporting history to cherish.
Richard Becht
1971 KIWIS TO BRITAIN AND FRANCE | SQUAD
Fullbacks | John Whittaker (Wellington), Mike McClennan (Auckland)
Wingers | Phil Orchard (Bay of Plenty), Mocky Brereton (Canterbury), Bob McGuinn (Auckland)
Centres | Roy Christian (Auckland) captain, Bernie Lowther (Auckland), John O’Sullivan (Auckland), Dave Sorensen (Auckland)
Halves | Dennis Williams (Auckland), Gary Woollard (Auckland), Ken Stirling (Auckland), Graeme Cooksley (Canterbury), Shane Dowsett (Auckland)
Hookers | Jim Fisher (Canterbury), Bill Burgoyne (Auckland)
Props | Henry Tatana (Auckland), Doug Gailey (Auckland), Robert Orchard (Auckland), Don Mann (Auckland)
Second rowers | John Greengrass (Canterbury), Gary Smith (Wellington), Bill Deacon (Waikato), Ray Williams (Auckland)
Loose forwards | Tony Kriletich (Auckland), Murray Eade (Auckland)
1971 KIWIS TO BRITAIN AND FRANCE | RESULTS
September 4 v Rochdale Hornets, Athletic Grounds, Rochdale WON 23-8
September 6 v St Helens, Knowsley Road, St Helens LOST 8-18
September 8 v Hull Kingston Rovers, Craven Park, Hull LOST 10-12
September 12 v Widnes, Naughton Park, Widnes WON 18-15
September 15 v Castleford, Wheldon Road, Castleford LOST 8-25
September 18 v Warrington, Wilderspool, Warrington LOST 2-13
September 25 v Great Britain, The Willows, Salford WON 18-13
September 30 v Barrow, Craven Park, Barrow-in-Furness WON 25-15
October 2 v Whitehaven, Recreation Ground, Whitehaven WON 21-8
October 8 v Swinton, Station Road, Manchester LOST 15-26
October 10 v Wigan, Central Park, Wigan WON 24-10
October 16 v Great Britain, Wheldon Road, Castleford WON 17-14
October 17 v Huddersfield, Fartown, Huddersfield LOST 10-11
October 20 v Leigh, Hilton Park, Leigh LOST 5-10
October 22 v Salford, The Willows, Salford LOST 30-31
October 24 v Wakefield Trinity, Belle Vue, Wakefield WON 23-12
October 27 v Oldham, The Watersheddings, Oldham WON 24-13
October 30 v Bradford Northern, Odsal, Bradford WON 30-23
October 31 v York, Clarence Street, York LOST 5-11
November 6 v Great Britain, Headingley, Leeds LOST 3-12
November 11 v France, Stade Gilbert Brutus, Perpignan WON 27-11
November 14 v Littoral Province, Stade St Ruf, Avignon WON 14-9
November 18 v Combined XIII, Stade Municipal d’Albi, Albi WON 20-9
November 21 v France, Stade Albert Domec, Carcassonne WON 24-2
November 24 v Combined XIII, Stade Chaban-Delmas, Bordeaux WON 20-9
November 28 v France, Stade Municipal, Toulouse DREW 3-3
1971 KIWIS TO BRITAIN AND FRANCE | RIP
Henry Tatana (#455) aged 53 in 1998
Bill Burgoyne (#487) aged 52 in 1999
Doug Gailey (#476) aged 59 in 2007
Bob McGuinn (#481) aged 64 in 2012
Tony Kriletich (#459) aged 72 in 2016
Phil Orchard (#475) aged 70 in 2018
John O'Sullivan (#493) aged 68 in 2018
Bill Deacon (#445) aged 75 in 2019
Mike McClennan (#488) aged 75 in 2019
Robert Orchard (#443) aged 74 IN 2020
John Whittaker (#485) aged 70 in 2020
Shane Dowsett (#495) aged 74 in 2021
Gary Woollard (#420) aged 79 in 2021
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Two weeks to go: Inaugural NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals
Following continued growth and strong participation in the NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament, the U15 Boys grade has now grown into a standalone event, with the inaugural U15 Boys National Secondary Schools Tournament less than two weeks away.
From Tuesday 1 September to Thursday 3 September, Walter Massey Park in Māngere, Auckland, will host 15 teams of rangatahi representing their schools, whānau, and communities on the national stage.
Seven teams will travel to Auckland to compete, including new entrants Mahaukura, a composite entry of Te Kōpuku High and Ngā Taiātea Wharekura School from Waikato, and Wellington’s St. Patrick’s Silverstream College. Avondale College from West Auckland will also make their tournament debut.
David McMeeken, NZRL National Football Operations Manager shared, “The U15 grade has grown significantly, from three teams in 2022 to 13 teams in 2025. This year we're looking forward to welcoming 15 schools from across the North Island, from Tāmaki Makaurau, Waikato, Hauraki, Bay of Plenty, and Wellington. Following feedback from schools, we’ve made the U15 Boys Tournament a standalone event, giving it its own space ahead of the Senior Boys and Girls tournaments.
“The purpose of the U15 grade and tournament is to provide schools with an entry point into rugby league, creating opportunities for students to participate in rugby league, play alongside friends, represent their schools, and hopefully continue playing the game through their local club. It also allows students to play the game without having to compete in senior grades too early. We’ve seen schools start their rugby league journey by entering U15s, and are now attending nationals with both U15 and Senior Boys teams.”
Keep an eye out on our NZRL website and socials for further U15 Boys and National Secondary Schools Tournament information to come.
NZRL's Pirtek Volunteer of the Month June 2026: Stephanie Noa, Whangamatā Whai
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 fourth winner for 2026, the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award for July goes to Stephanie Noa from the Whangamatā Whai.
The Whangamatā Whai club was founded four years ago after a group of local U11 players represented Hauraki at an Aotearoa New Zealand Māori Rugby League tournament. With the tamariki having little experience or exposure to rugby league, the idea was sparked to establish a local club where tamariki and rangatahi could learn the game, get involved, and get the most out of rugby league.
Stephanie played an instrumental role in establishing Whangamatā Whai and has been at the heart of the club’s journey from day one, serving as President ever since. In addition to her responsibilities as President, Steph wears many hats around the club, from coaching and managing to administration, photography, social media, and whatever else needs to be done.
Under Steph’s leadership and through the hard work of the club’s volunteers and community support, Whai has grown from a humble 40 players to more than 200 in 2025, with 12 teams ranging from U5 through to senior men’s and women’s teams.
An achievement for the club was introducing U13 and U15 kōtiro girls’ teams. Steph is passionate about growing women’s rugby league, having played the game herself in Australia for the Burleigh Bears, where she learned from and played alongside some of the pioneers of the modern women’s game.
On top of all the mahi she puts into the club, Steph is also a mum, with three of her daughters playing for Whai. Balancing her work at the club while still being there on the sideline to support her girls can’t be easy, but Steph does it and makes it look effortless.
Her commitment, energy, and passion for the club have helped bring rugby league to life in Whangamatā, giving tamariki, rangatahi, and seniors the opportunity to play, grow, and thrive in the game.
The growth Whangamatā Whai has achieved in such a short time is outstanding, and Steph has been a huge part of that success. Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke shared:
"Congratulations, Stephanie, on being named the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month for July. The time, care, and commitment you put into your club and the people around you don't go unnoticed, and we're proud to recognise the positive difference you continue to make."
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
Tigers can't stop smiling as Raecene McGregor puts on a show
If anyone thought Wests Tigers Raecene McGregor was on fire in Magic Round, then they will be eagerly awaiting the star halfback lining up against her former club St George Illawarra on Sunday.
McGregor dazzled the Sharks in the 32-20 win in Wagga Wagga with two line breaks, two try assists, and a double herself along with four goals to give her a club record haul of 16 points.
"It’s so good having someone like Rae, who just runs with that ball,” Tigers fullback Caitlin Turnbull told NRL.com.
“She has people falling off her no matter which direction she takes. There’s always inside shoulders she finds or opening up plays on the outside as well.
“Having someone like her on the team is outstanding.
“Obviously I’m still learning fullback – it’s my first full year in the position – but I’m learning so much from Rae.
“I just stay off her hip and work with her – I am loving it.”
McGregor finished her 2025 season at the Dragons prematurely, when work and personal commitments caused some upheaval between her and the club.
“The year didn’t end the way I wanted it to at the Dragons,” she told NRL.com earlier this year.
But incoming Wests Tigers coach Craig Sandercock saw the value in the 2022 Dally M winner.
Skipper and fellow Dally M winner Kezie Apps has a close-up view of McGregor’s skills since they both work the Wests Tigers right edge.
“Rae showed her little magic (in Wagga Wagga) with her footwork, show-and-goes. She’s just an incredible player,” Apps said.
“Just her as a player and how hard she’s worked in the pre-season... her leadership has been amazing and directing us around the park.
“It’s definitely what we needed at the Wests Tigers – somebody like that.”
Turnbull is into her second NRLW season and played mainly on the wing last year before moving into the custodian role this year.
She felt the pain of 2025 when the Wests Tigers enjoyed just one win in 11 games. But she’s been a major part of the revival in 2026 with her kick return metres, tackle busts and her staunch defence.
After winning the opening two rounds, the Wests Tigers had back-to-back 40-point losses to the Broncos and Roosters before returning to the winners’ circle against the Sharks.
“It’s really pleasing. We had those two losses which were hefty but it’s so good to comeback and get a win against a good side like Cronulla,” Turnbull said.
“We’re on the rise here. We only won one match last year – we’re now up to three – but our principles mean the girls get around each other and everyone is working hard.
“It’s only up from here.”
As seen on nrl.com
Family ties inspiring Lauitiiti's personal journey to the big stage
Like father, like daughter.
If you wanted to know where Warriors Ivana Lauitiiti gets that energy from you only have to research her father Ali Lauitiiti, who played 394 first-grade games across 19 years.
Big Ali was a cult figure in his seven years with the Warriors before joining Leeds for eight years and finishing with four seasons at Wakefield Trinity.
He played for the Warriors in the 2002 NRL decider against the Roosters and won a premiership with Leeds in 2004 alongside 20 Tests for New Zealand and seven for Samoa (2000-2010).
Ivana says she’d like to have that kind of lengthy career.
And if you were thinking the NRLW Magic Round might be Ivana’s lucky charm, you’d be right.
She scored a try on her NRLW debut in the 2025 edition at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, and in 2026 she scored again at Wagga Wagga’s Geohex Park to mark her 20th birthday.
“I don’t really like celebrating my birthday but I wouldn’t want to do anything else than play the sport that I love with the teammates I love,” Lauitiiti told NRL.com.
The young prop said she never felt the pressure “too much” from being Ali Lauitiiti’s daughter.
“I feel like I use him as a lesson, well not really a lesson, but as doing something I want to do well too," she said.
“The only pressure I really feel is do better each game.
“Dad talks to me a lot about footy – and sometimes I don’t listen – but I am quietly very proud of him.”
Ivania was born in Leeds in 2006, while Ali was playing with the Rhinos, and since he didn’t retire until 2016 she remembers him playing.
“I loved watching him... it’s what inspired me to get into football – my dad and my cousins," she said.
She’s not only followed down the club path by being at the Warriors, Ivana has already pulled on the Kiwis Ferns jersey in last year’s Pacific Championships.
Perhaps nothing should really be a surprise in these father-daughter connections.
Lauitiiti also scored on his NRL debut against North Sydney in 1998, and while he won Dally M Second-Rower of the year in 2002 his daughter also has a Dally M honour.
She won the Youi ‘Tackle of the Year’ at the 2025 awards night for her tackle on Wests Tigers centre Emily Bass in the Round 11 win at Campbelltown Stadium last September.
“I do love the physical side of rugby league but also the bridges you build around it with your teammates in and out of footy,” she said.
“We give it our all every game and we hope to play finals this year.
“For me I need to execute all the coaches are teaching me.”
After two away games, the Warriors are sitting in third spot on the NRLW ladder and host the Knights at FMG Stadium Waikato, in Hamilton, this Saturday.
As seen on nrl.com
Player expression of interest: Australia-based U19 boys & girls
Expressions of interest are now open for players interested in selection for the NZRL Taurahere U19 boys and girls representative matches, for Kiwi youth residing in Australia.
Taurahere returns this year to the Gold Coast’s Runaway Bay from 11-13 September, featuring the inaugural girls fixture alongside the traditional boys match.
Two Under-19 boys' squads and two Under-19 girls' squads selected from players residing in NSW and QLD will be chosen to attend a short training camp before facing off in their respective representative fixtures.
Please complete the form below if you wish to express your interest in selection for the Taurahere teams, open to male and female players aged between 17 and 19 years of age who currently reside in Australia.
Expressions of interest will close Wednesday 5 August, complete the form here.
NZRL national tournaments calendar locked in
The countdown is on to our national tournament season, kicking off in just a few weeks across Aotearoa. With a tournament taking place every weekend throughout September and leading into October, another exciting representative season awaits.
This year's calendar features several exciting milestones, including the inaugural National U15 Boys Secondary Schools Tournament and Wheelchair Rugby League Nationals, while the National Secondary Schools Tournament is set to be its biggest yet.
The Taurahere programme returns in Australia, the New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s representative programme is back, and senior representative rugby league heads to Hawke's Bay for what promises to be a historic weekend for the region.
See the full tournament calendar below, with more information, key details, and updates to be released in the lead-up to each event.
National U15 Boys Secondary Schools Tournament
Tuesday 1 September – Thursday 3 September
Walter Massey Park, Māngere, Auckland
National Secondary Schools Tournament
Friday 4 September – Sunday 6 September
Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini, Auckland
National Men’s Premiership | North Island qualifiers
Sky Sport National Women’s Premiership
Men’s and Women’s Championships
Saturday 12 September – Sunday 13 September
Mitre 10 Park, Hastings, Hawke’s Bay
National Men’s Premiership | South Island qualifiers
Saturday 12 September – Sunday 13 September
Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub, Aidanfield, Christchurch
Taurahere Australia Resident U19 representative matches
Sunday 13 September
Runaway Bay, Gold Coast, Australia
Wheelchair Rugby League Nationals
Saturday 19 September – Sunday 20 September
Auckland
National Men’s Premiership semi-finals
Saturday 26 September
Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini, Auckland
National Men’s Premiership Grand Final
Sky Sport National Women’s Premiership Grand Final
Sunday 27 September
Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini, Auckland
National Youth Tournament
Sunday 27 September – Tuesday 29 September
Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini, Auckland
New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s representative matches
Monday 26 October
Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini, Auckland
Origin lessons driving Nikora's premiership quest with the Sharks
Cronulla forward Briton Nikora has vowed to draw on the experience of a maiden Origin series as he looks to lead the Sharks back to the NRL finals.
The back rower made his Queensland debut in the interstate contest and impressed for the Maroons despite their loss to NSW in a tense Suncorp Stadium decider.
Nikora was handed a rest by Cronulla coach Craig Fitzgibbon before returning for last week's tight win over the Knights. He will line up in the back-row for Sunday's clash with Manly at 4 Pines Park as the Sharks look to solidify their place in the top four.
Cronulla have progressed to the preliminary final in the past two seasons but have fallen short of a grand final berth and this season looms as the current squad's best chance to win a title before a host of players depart.
Having had a taste of the Origin furnace, Nikora is eager to draw on that experience throughout the upcoming finals series.
"It's exciting to be back with the Sharks after that experience," Nikora told NRL.com. "There's a lot there that I can draw upon leading into the finals. The atmosphere, the games, the intensity of the play.
"It's not just the physical side but mentally preparing myself for those games, it takes a lot to mentally prepare and there is a lot throughout the week leading into the game.
"I'll take those physical lessons and all the mental lessons with me if I play in those big games with the Sharks."
A mainstay in the Kiwis forward pack for the past few years, Nikora's Queensland debut came after eligibility rules were changed earlier this year to allow New Zealand and England players to contest State of Origin.
The forward was 10 when his family moved from New Zealand to the Gold Coast and playing for the Maroons quickly developed into a childhood goal.
After coming off the bench in Game One, the back-rower started in the second and third matches and was among the Maroons' best throughout the series.
While Queensland ultimately lost in the decider, Nikora said there were plenty of lessons learned from coach Billy Slater and his teammates that will hold him in good stead moving forward.
"It was a dream come true," Nikora said. "I never thought I'd see the day and I was so grateful for the opportunity that Billy gave me and the faith Billy and the coaching staff had in me to put that jersey on. I don't take it lightly and it was an honour to do it.
"I learned a lot off Billy and the coaching staff. The detail he shows with his coaching and the focus on the little effort areas. That's what I'm trying to bring back to the Sharks. I want to come back a better player than I was, I want to lift my game and do what I've got to do for the team."
Nikora was one of three Sharks to feature in the Origin series, with Blayke Brailey and Addin Fonua-Blake playing a key role in the Blues' victory.
Fonua-Blake has brushed off a pec concern to be named for this week's clash with the Sea Eagles, while Brailey has hit the ground running since returning from a broken arm midway through the campaign.
The trio are set to play a key role in Cronulla's run to the finals, with history suggesting Origin experience is a key indicator of premiership success.
It's an area the club has been lacking in recent years and coach Craig Fitzgibbon can already see the impact upon the group's return to the Shire.
"I really respect the way Addin, Blayke and Brit have come back and shown how much the club means to them, of wanting to play and play well," Fitzgibbon said.
As seen on nrl.com
Make the jersey your own: Dad's wise words driving Mackenzie Wiki
Kiwi Fern #183 Mackenzie Wiki has spent her rugby league journey carrying a famous surname, but on a milestone day for the Canberra Raiders centre, she proved the green jersey belongs to her.
Playing her 25th NRLW match for the Raiders, Wiki crossed for two tries as Canberra secured a 42-16 victory against the Warriors in her milestone game.
For Wiki, the occasion carried extra meaning. As the daughter of Raiders and New Zealand Kiwis great Ruben Wiki, she has grown up surrounded by the expectations that come with a legendary name.
But the 24-year-old said the advice from her father has always been simple... embrace the opportunity and make the jersey her own.
“It’s awesome wearing the same colours as my dad. But you know the message from him is to make your own name in the green jersey”, Wiki told NRL.com.
"I think we’ve both made a name for ourselves, and I’m just carrying on that tradition for the Wikis.”
Ruben Wiki played 224 games for the Green Machine from 1993 to 2004, including the Raiders' premiership-winning side in 1994, before finishing his illustrious career with four seasons at the Warriors.
"I’m very grateful to be in the same jersey and I hope I can make many more (memories) in the same jersey," Mackenzie said.
Born and raised in Queanbeyan, which borders the nation’s capital, Wiki has always called the ACT her second home.
“I’ve been here since the inaugural season so 25 games for the Raiders, it's just such a surreal thing," she said.
“I feel like we have such unity in the club and you know I just want to put my best out there for the club and what they’ve done for me over the four years.”
Raiders coach Darrin Borthwick praised not only Wiki’s performance but also her personal drive throughout her time at the club.
“To see her growth and development over the last three years, yeah really happy. I think she’s forged a name for herself now and I know that she will keep continuing to get better," Borthwick said.
“I’m glad she’s on our team and she’s doing a really good job at the moment with our back five and leading the charge with that, so I’m really happy for her.”
While Wiki’s dad has had a hand in shaping her playing career she wasn’t shy to mention the massive impact her mum has made as well.
"I think my mum has been the biggest influence in my career. She is a strong woman. I just want to continue the way she lives life and do that on the field as well.”
As seen on nrl.com
DJI joins NZRL as official technology partner
Leading global technology company DJI (Da-Jiang Innovations) have officially partnered with New Zealand Rugby League, coming on board as technology partners for 2026.
DJI are renowned for their wide range of creative camera products including camera drones, handheld vlogging cameras, stabilising and filmmaking gear, accessories, and more.
NZRL General Manager of Communications and Marketing Amy Thomason shared, “We are thrilled to partner with DJI and look forward to incorporating their leading and innovative products into our technology suite.
“DJI’s products will help enhance our content capture across our grassroots tournaments and competitions, through to the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns, and Wheel Kiwis World Cup campaigns.”
Deon Holgate, Field Sales Manager at Dicker Data New Zealand, distributor of DJI Consumer products in New Zealand, said on behalf of DJI:
"DJI is proud to partner with New Zealand Rugby League as the Official Technology Partner for 2026.
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and rugby league's speed, precision, and teamwork reflect the values that drive DJI. We're excited to support the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns, and Wheel Kiwis throughout their World Cup campaigns by providing industry-leading imaging technology that captures the game from new perspectives.
Together with NZRL, we look forward to bringing fans closer to the game, taking them behind the moments that matter, and sharing the passion, pride, and journey of New Zealand rugby league with audiences around the world."
Wheel Kiwis campaign comes to a close with strong performance on Day 3
After a strong Day 2, it was all on the line on Day 3 of the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship for the Wheel Kiwis as a win in Game 1 versus South East Queensland & Central Queensland would give them a chance of heading into the playoffs later in the day.
Game 1 vs South East Queensland & Central Queensland
It was a tight first few minutes with both teams testing and feeling each other out. Unfortunately for the Wheel Kiwis though it was SEQ that took early honours with two converted tries giving them the lead 12-0.
New Zealand was putting a lot of pressure on, looking close with a ball flicked right then back left putting them in a potential gap, only for it to go through the fingertips. SEQ were then able to capitalise almost instantly, kicking down court, recovering the ball to find open space ahead of them. Going under the goal posts, they were able to extend the lead to 18-0.
Some more pressure from New Zealand followed but the half time hooter went, the score still 18-0.
With the second half getting under way, the Wheel Kiwis came out firing. SEQ were able to break down the edge but desperate defence by Josh Hirini-Barclay meant the try was saved. However, SEQ were still able to capitalise straight after dotting down to take the lead to 24-0.
With heads still high, New Zealand was probing. Some good sets saw the pressure mount, and a pass out the back of the hand to Connor Gibbs saw him able to put the first points on the board for New Zealand. Unconverted it was 24-4.
That kickstarted the comeback, with Kauri Murray able to go over after some quick passing on the last tackle to give the Wheel Kiwis back-to-back tries and push their score to 24-10. Not long and it was three in a row, this time on the right edge with Nikia Fa’atau diving with everything he had to touch the ball down and get the team to 24-14.
With the clock ticking by, the team were strong but unable to put any more points on the board, the score ending 24-14 after a superb second half.
Unfortunately, that means the Wheel Kiwis don’t make the playoffs, but they put everything into the campaign and have plenty of positives to take into the World Cup at the end of the year.
A strong day for Wheel Kiwis at NRL Wheelchair Championships
Day 2 of the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship and the vibes were high as the team were looking to take the positives out of Day 1, build and hopefully put some wins on the board. And that they did, with some dominating performances that saw them rack up the points.
Game 1 vs Affiliated States (NT, SA & WA)
An early start to the day but the Wheel Kiwis came out firing against the Affiliated States team. Good speed, strong sets in the early possessions culminating in them getting the first try through Nikia Fa’atau, going over in the left corner to put them ahead 4-0.
The Wheel Kiwis didn't stop there, some slick hands seeing Hayden Delves cross the try line to extend the lead to 8-0. While Affiliated States had a few chances, solid defence shut them out of the half. The Wheel Kiwis were able to dot down once more before the half ended, Fa’atau evading defenders through some nimble work. The half ended 14-0, the Wheel Kiwis firing on all fronts.
It didn't take long in the second half for New Zealand to take the ascendancy again, Fa’atau sending Connor Gibbs through on the right side. Gibbs converted his own try to put them 20-0 ahead.
Once again, any attempt by Affiliated States was repelled by New Zealand, the pressure mounting but the Wheel Kiwis holding, hustling on defence, adamant they weren't letting the opposition over their line. With a much tighter middle period, Kauri Murray was able to pry the defence open, finding the gap before racing down court and dotting down. With the conversion over, the Wheel Kiwis finished the game 26-0.
Edie George, Wheel Kiwis Head Coach, happy with the performance, “Our first win of the tournament but won’t be our last. The energy was good, comms were good. A few things to work on but we’ll get there.”
Game 2 vs Victoria
The team were clearly high on confidence as they started the game against Victoria right where they left off. With a near try in the first minute, it was only a few passes later that Jack Brown was able to put first points on the board.
Showing their defence was just as good as their attack once again, they stopped any attempt from Victoria before piling on the points. Hayden Delves was once again on the scoreboard after a breakaway try, as was Kauri Murray who dotted down twice to put the Wheel Kiwis ahead 20-0 going into the break.
Getting straight into it, Gibbs opened the scoring in the second half for New Zealand after good hands saw him take the ball out wide. It wasn’t long till Delves got another, then Fa’atau, taking the lead out to 38-0.
Jamie Tapp was probing all game on the left edge, some strong carries setting the team up nicely. Josh Hirini-Barclay was next to put 4 points next to his name, with Fa’atau’s speed too good in the last minute, getting the final points for the team to finish up 50-0.
Game 3 vs ACT
Facing off in the final game of the day against the reigning champs, the Wheel Kiwis needed a win to secure their place in the playoffs.
A bit of a slower start compared to the two earlier games, and unfortunately it was ACT that was able to get the first points, diving in the corner to take them to 6-0. From there the game got really tight, both teams probing but unable to make inroads.
Giggs proved the differentiator, once again in the action diving under the goal posts to add 4 points before converting his own try to level it up 6-6. But ACT came back strongly, their line speed helping them secure good metres on the carries before they were able to take back the lead 10-6 as they went into half time.
The second half was tight once again with the first 8 mins still locked at the half time score. Again though ACT went on to score, extending their lead to 16-6. Despite best efforts from New Zealand that’s where the scoring ended, the full time score remaining at 16-6.
The Wheel Kiwis will be facing off against South East Queensland & Central Queensland in the morning, a win likely to put them into the playoffs.
Wheel Kiwis show heart as they kick off 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship campaign
The 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship has kicked off on the Gold Coast of Australia with the Wheel Kiwis squad taking to the court twice in the day. First up they faced off against New South Wales before heading back out later in the day to battle it out with North Queensland.
With numerous new faces to the team, as well as it being the first hit out in a while for many, the team were looking to build those on-court connections early on and lay the foundations for some strong performances from there.
Game 1 vs New South Wales
It was a tough first up opponent in New South Wales, the squad featuring numerous Australian Wheelaroos representatives. But New Zealand went into the match up with high spirits and a strong determination.
Despite a first up try by NSW, the Wheel Kiwis were coming up strong in defence, led by co-captain Kauri Murray especially. With some quick line speed, NSW were able to challenge the Wheel Kiwis, crossing the line another two times to take the lead 16-0.
New Zealand had their chances, getting some good territory and challenging the NSW line. An intercept try by NSW didn't help the cause however, with the team going into half time 22-0.
At half time Head Coach Edie George spoke of the team slowly building confidence with the message heading into the second half to play their natural style and stick to the game plan.
Three minutes into the second half NSW were able to score again to put them ahead by 28 by New Zealand were building, piling on some pressure and putting good phases together. After a solid set, Nikia Fa’atau was able to find the gap, reaching through to secure New Zealand’s first try. With the conversion going through the middle, it was 28-6.
Despite two more tries, the final score 38-6, George was happy to see the team build in the second half.
“Definitely positive about how the team finished the game.
“Our completion rate went from 50 percent in the first half to 75 percent in the second half, and definitely better defensively as well. There was a lot more comms, more energy.
“We need to start every game the same way we finished the second half of the first game.”
Game 2 vs North Queensland
The Wheel Kiwis faced off against arguably the tournament favourites North Queensland in Game 2. Featuring the Wheel Kiwis inaugural captain, Jayson Hooker, North Queensland came out strong, the first few tries of the game going their way.
With both teams finding it hard to penetrate the defence during the middle of the half, the game featured plenty of end-to-end kick chases, some of which coming nail bitingly close to being tries.
Midway through the half, New Zealand’s Connor Gibbs saw the gap on the kick, weighting it perfectly. Nikia Fa’atau was able to scoop it up on the chase, evade the last remaining defenders and cross over for the Wheel Kiwis. With Gibbs converting, it was 18-6.
With the Wheel Kiwis holding out North Queensland with seconds to go, it was only a field goal that was added to the tally as both teams went into the break, the score at 19-6.
Both teams came into the second half with renewed energy, Fa’atau throwing everything into trying to unsuccessfully save a try in the corner. With plenty more long kicks, North Queensland were able to take advantage and exert their dominance on the score board, scoring multiple tries to end the game 46-6.
With a lot of heart shown, the Wheel Kiwis will go into Day 2 with even more energy, giving it everything as they face off against Affiliated States (NT, SA & WA), ACT and Victoria.