2025 National Secondary Schools Champions Crowned

Grassroots
Aug 29, 2025
 • 
Grassroots
31 August 2025 Finals day at the 2025 National Secondary Schools Tournament was full of excitement, despite the wet and windy Auckland weather. With pride, placings, and national titles at stake, schools left it all on the field in todays high-stakes showdowns.

Senior Boys Premiership

GRAND FINAL: St Paul's College v Kelston Boys' High School Final score: Kelston Boys' High School 20 - 12 The first ten minutes of the Boys Premiership grand final were a close back-and-forth contest. Both sides showed strength through the middle of the park, with St Paul's coming close to scoring in the seventh minute, but they were let down by an error. Kelston were first to put points on the board after a powerful run by #11 Rilee Huggins was scooped up and taken from dummy half and over the try line by Rico Finau. Hinkley Ioka then successfully added the extras. St Paul's quickly fired back minutes later when Bronson Fisiiahi similarly darted from dummy half to score, with Siokatame Kali successfully converting. To end the half, Kelston expertly executed a short kick-off to regather the ball and regain possession. Their skillful halfback, Ioka, then threaded a grubber through, which sat up perfectly for Jeremiah Lemana to score. 10-6 the halftime score to Kelston. Moments after second-half kick-off, St Paul's fumbled the ball, which was quickly picked up by Kelston and spread through the hands of the left edge for a diving finish by winger Blake Bruce. In the minutes following, St Paul's mounted several close charges at the line but were held up and kept out by Kelston's excellent try line defence. Ioka continued to show his prowess, kicking a 40/20. St Paul's finally turned their efforts into points when centre William Fotu used excellent footwork to beat defenders, falling just short of the line. Christian Faifua was then able to complete the job, scoring from dummy half on the next play. A pinpoint conversion in strong wind by Fisiiahi brought the score to 14-12, with St Paul's trailing closely and seven minutes remaining. In the final three minutes, Kelston cemented their victory with a try by left centre Parekaahu Keepa, successfully converted by Dylan Brown. Kelston Boys' High School are the 2025 Senior Boys Premiership champions, reclaiming the national title after eight years, having last won in 2017. 3rd place: Manurewa High School 14 v Mt. Albert Grammar School 12

Senior Boys Tournament Awards

Senior Boys Tournament

Manager of the Tournament

Gaye Scott - Gisborne Boys High School

Senior Boys Tournament

Trainer of the Tournament

Rawiri Waaka - Okea Ururoatia

Senior Boys Tournament

Coach of the Tournament

Danny Bernard - Kelston Boys' High School

Senior Boys Tournament

Emerging Talent

Junior Tavalu - Tauranga Boys' College

Boys Premiership

Tournament MVP

Gordon Afoa - St Paul's College

Boys Premiership

Finals MVP

Hinkley Ioka - Kelston Boys' High School

NZ Secondary Schools Boys Team

1 Jeremiah Lemana - Kelston Boys' High School
2 Kaian Olsen - Kelston Boys' High School
3 Parekaahu Keepa - Kelston Boys' High School
4 Ezekiel Davidson Faaiuaso - St Paul's College
5 Tane Keereweer-Taia - St Paul's College
6 Siokatame Kali - St Paul's College
7 Ashton Denton-Woodhouse - Manurewa High School
8 Vunivalu Niupalau - Kelston Boys' High School
9 Rico Finau - Kelston Boys' High School
10 Gordon Afoa - St Paul's College
11 Lesarol Gumaka Anafatuso Tagavaimotu - Manurewa High School
12 Satali Asolelei-Fretton - Kelston Boys' High School
13 Albert Balchin - St Paul's College
14 Hinkley Ioka - Kelston Boys' High School
15 Romana Whitiora - St Paul's College
16 Finn McDrury - Mount Albert Grammar School
17 Steven Live Luatua - Dilworth School
18 Solomon Westerlund - Dilworth School
19 Rhayn Taikato - Tauranga Boys' College

Senior Girls Championship

GRAND FINAL: Auckland Girls' Grammar School v Rotorua Girls' High School Final score: Auckland Girls' Grammar School 8 - 0 Auckland Girls' entered their fourth consecutive national grand final, while their opponents Rotorua, were aiming to deny them another title, in their first NZSST grand final. The Aucklanders had a few close chances in the early minutes, guided the park by nifty half Jada-Breeze Gray, but Rotorua's defence held firm, keeping them out. AGGS fullback Lala Vaea broke the deadlock with a strong run down the right edge to open scoring at the ten-minute mark. Both sides displayed outstanding go-forward on attack, and equally forceful defence, keeping each other scoreless for the remainder of the half. The halftime score stood at 4-0 in favour of AGGS. At the start of the second half, Rotorua earned back-to-back attacking opportunities through multiple repeat sets, including two forced line dropouts, but they were unable to find a gap in AGGS' strong defensive line. When AGGS finally regained possession and attacking momentum, their powerful forwards charged downfield, before shifting the ball to the left centre Faith Tavita, who used her speed and strength to shrug off defenders and score their second try. Rotorua stayed in the fight and came close again after forcing another line dropout, but were once more denied by AGGS' unrelenting defence. The tough match-up ended 8-0 in favour of AGGS. Auckland Girls' Grammar School are the 2025 Senior Girls Championship winners, reclaiming the title after last holding it in 2023. 3rd place: Southern Cross Campus 18 v Manurewa High School 0

Senior Girls Championship Awards

Manager of the Tournament

Michelle Mahuika - Okea Ururoatia

Trainer of the Tournament

Mary-Ann Collins - Sacred Heart College

Coach of the Tournament

Dave Rewi - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

Emerging Talent

Kimora-Lee Lisone - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

Tournament MVP

Ryteous Tutaia - Kelston Girls’ High School

Finals MVP

Faith Tavita - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

NZ Secondary Schools Girls Team

1

Lala Vaea - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

2

Mason-Marie Playle - Rotorua Girls' High School

3

Betsy Fifita - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

4

Faith Tavita - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

5

Shakira Lui - Southern Cross Campus

6

Jada-Breeze Gray - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

7

Reve Ngaheu - Rotorua Girls' High School

8

Ryteous Tutaia - Kelston Girls' High School

9

Maraea Makiha - Rotorua Girls' High School

10

Jayne Fateia Langsiu - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

11

Alaina Lauitiiti - McAuley High School

12

Te Raukura Leafe - St Mary's College

13

Neveah Harris - Rotorua Girls' High School

14

Khaidyn-Bre Teau - Avondale College

15

Malia Sio-Namulau'ulu - Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

16

Brylee Adams - Rotorua Girls' High School

17

Kaiarihi Puku - Rotorua Girls' High School

18

Shanthie Lui - Southern Cross Campus

19

Lavinia Liufau - Manurewa High School

Senior Boys Championship

GRAND FINAL: Dilworth School v Tauranga Boys' College Final score: Dilworth 26 - 6 The boys from the Bay of Plenty opened the match with a stirring haka, just before the heavy Auckland rain returned just in time for kick-off. Dilworth were the first to score, with their forwards rumbling down the middle before shifting the ball through the hands on the left edge for the winger to cross. They struck again just a few minutes later through skilful hooker George Mann. After a few more close attempts that were thwarted by the wet and windy conditions, Steven Luatua darted from dummy half to cross for Dilworth's third try. A Tauranga penalty 20 metres out from their own try line gave Dilworth the opportunity to kick for 2, the last points of the half, to mark the score 18-0 at the break. The rain cleared for the start of the second half, and Tauranga stayed in the fight, showing reinvigorated defence to keep Dilworth at bay. After back-and-forth efforts from both sides, a Dilworth line break down the left edge in the 33rd minute saw Steven Luatua cross for his second, scoring the first points of the half. With the game already out of reach, Tauranga finally found some joy through Lucas Taula, who scored under the posts and was sucessfully converted by Benjamin Atoa. Dilworth would have the last say, with George Mann scoring his second try. In their first-ever rugby league campaign and appearance at NZSST, Dilworth School are the Senior Boys Championship winners for 2025. 3rd place: James Cook High School 18 v New Plymouth Boy's High School 6

Senior Boys Championship Tournament Awards

Tournament MVP

Steven Luatua - Dilworth School

Finals MVP

George Mann - Dilworth School

U15 Boys Carnival

GRAND FINAL: Kelston Boys' High School v Manurewa High School Final score: Kelston Boys' High School 26-8 The West Aucklanders from Kelston came out firing, scoring in the first minute of the game through Viliami Otutaha. Manurewa responded with a try of their own in the 10th minute, but Kelston's formidable forward pack continued to power through the middle, laying an impressive platform for the backs to finish. Boaz-League Maiu'u scored a double to put Kelston ahead 16-4 at the the half. Kelston kept their foot on the gas, scoring two more tries within the first ten minutes of the second half, including one to Filimone Tuinauvai, who already had four points to his name from first-half kicking duties. Manurewa were able to find joy once more, scoring the final try of the game, but they were ultimately no match for Kelston, who emerged victorious, 26-8. Kelston Boys' High School are the 2025 U15 Boys Carnival grade champions for the first time. This marks a double victory for the school, who also claimed the Senior Boys Premiership title. 3rd place: Southern Cross 14 v Tipene 12

U15 Boys Carnival Awards

Manager of the Tournament

Leilani Fou - James Cook High School

Trainer of the Tournament

Tom Taiaroa - Tipene St Stephen’s

Coach of the Tournament

Lonnie Papani - Manurewa High School

Emerging Talent

Dayton Drollet - Southern Cross Campus

Tournament MVP

Rome Fa’anana - Kelston Boys’ High School

Finals MVP

Joshua Poutu - Kelston Boys’ High School

For all results and final standings visit sporty.co.nz

All the NEWS. All the VIEWS.
All the ACTION.

Article Link

Taurahere teams confirmed: NZRL Australia-based U19 rep matches

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.

Sunday 13 September

Gold Coast Sports Precinct, 296 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara

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/

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/

NZRL U19 Taurahere Girls & Boys teams

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

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

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

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

Article Link

Essential info: National Men's Premiership South Island tournament

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.

Draw

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

Parking

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

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.

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

Article Link

Essential info: National Men's & Women's Tournaments in Hastings this weekend

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Article Link

Remembering Jim Fisher, Kiwi #423

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.

Article Link

NZRL partners with Hydro Flask for 2026

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.”

Article Link

NZSS Finals: AGGS & Kelston Boys' go back-to-back & Shirley Boys' win their first

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Watch all Grand Finals & Field 1 match replays across all three days on YouTube

Keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages

Article Link

NZSS Girls & Championship Grand Finals locked in, Premiership semis confirmed

Boys Premiership

Kelston continued their dominance on Day 2, finishing Pool A play undefeated to secure the first semi-final spot. The second spot was decided in the final round of the day, with St. Thomas and De La Salle going head-to-head for a place in the final four. The Cantabrians ultimately prevailed after a tough 40 minutes, with Pesamino Elia kicking the match-winning two-points to secure a victory for St. Thomas.

Over in Pool B, St. Paul’s topped the standings after losing to Rotorua Boys’ in the opening round, before bouncing back to put 50 unanswered points on Manurewa to finish the day strongly. Southern Cross secured second place after also recording three wins from four games, with today's victories over Manurewa and Whangārei helping them book their place in the semi-finals.

Semi-finals will take place tomorrow morning to determine who will advance to the 2026 Boys Premiership Grand Finals.

Semi-Final 1 9:00 am | Kelston Boys' High School vs Southern Cross Campus

Semi-Final 2 9:00 am | St. Paul's College vs St. Thomas of Canterbury College

3rd/4th final 1:00 pm

Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 2:20 pm

Girls Championship

Heading straight into quarter-finals from the start of the day, the eight remaining girls title contenders battled for a place in the semi-finals, with Auckland Girls’, Rotorua Girls’, Southern Cross, and Avonside Girls’ all securing wins in their respective match-ups. In the first semi-final, reigning champions Auckland Girls’ continued their unbeaten run with a convincing 32-10 victory over Christchurch’s Avonside, securing a place in the Grand Final for the fourth consecutive year. In the second semi-final, 2025 grand finalists Rotorua Girls’ also booked their return to the decider, comfortably overcoming Southern Cross 36-6.

3rd/4th final 1:00 pm | Southern Cross Campus vs Avonside Girls' High School

Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 1:10 pm | Auckland Girl's Grammar School vs Rotorua Girls High School

Boys Championship

Similarly in the Boys Championship, the top eight teams after Day 1 from the 20-team grade advanced directly to the quarter-finals, with Christchurch’s Shirley Boys’, New Plymouth Boys’, Botany Downs, and King’s all securing wins in their quarters. In the first semi-final, Shirley Boys’ proved too strong for King’s, running out 28-14 winners. The second semi-final delivered a tense battle between New Plymouth Boys’ and Botany Downs, with New Plymouth edging ahead 12-6 after Jermaine Mattock crossed for the match-winning try.

3rd/4th final 12:00 pm | King's College vs Botany Downs Secondary College

Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 12:00 pm | Shirley Boys' High School vs New Plymouth Boy's High School

See all results & draws: www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl

Watch all Grand Finals & Field 1 matches live on Sky Sport and keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages.

Article Link

Remebering Kiwi Fern #75, Fuarosa 'Fozzy' Time

We are deeply saddened to mourn the passing of Kiwi Fern #75, Fuarosa ‘Fozzy’ Time.

Hailing from Wellington’s Randwick Kingfishers, Fuarosa was a talented rugby league, rugby union and touch player who represented a number of teams and clubs across Aotearoa and later Australia.

Fuarosa will be forever remembered as a trailblazer who made history on her Kiwi Ferns debut at the 2003 Rugby League World Cup. She scored six tries against Tokelau in that match, a record that still stands today as the most tries scored n a women’s Rugby League World Cup match, as well as the most by a debutant.

We extend our deepest condolences to Fozzy’s whānau and friends, and to all those who had the privilege of playing alongside her and knowing her.

Moe mai rā, Fozzy.

Article Link

Day one delivers as NZSS 2026 gets underway

The 2026 NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament (NZSS) got underway at Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park today, with 43 teams from schools across the motu coming together for three days of competition. Staff, whānau and supporters were also out in force to back the competing rangatahi, who took to the field twice throughout the day to represent their schools. Fine but windy conditions greeted teams in the morning before showers rolled in during the afternoon, adding another challenge as the tournament got underway.

Boys Premiership

The 2026 Boys Premiership grade welcomed Dilworth School, the champions of the 2025 Boys Championship, and Whangārei Boys’ High School, recent winners of the Rugby League Northland Adam Blair High School Competition.

In Pool A, reigning champions Kelston Boys’ High School opened their campaign with convincing wins over De La Salle College and Mt. Albert Grammar School to finish the day at the top of the table. 2023-2024 winners St. Thomas of Canterbury College also went unbeaten, overcoming Mt. Albert and newcomers Dilworth, while De La Salle rounded out the top three.

Over in Pool B, Manurewa High School dominated their opening matches against Whangārei Boys’ and Rotorua Boys’ High School to lead the section. Auckland champions St. Paul’s College follow in second by points differential, also undefeated, and in third is Southern Cross Campus who recorded a win and a loss.

Pool A standings:

  1. Kelston Boys' High School
  2. St. Thomas of Canterbury College
  3. De La Salle College
  4. Dilworth School
  5. Mt. Albert Grammar School

Pool B standings:

  1. Manurewa High School
  2. St. Paul's College
  3. Southern Cross Campus
  4. Whangārei Boys’ High School
  5. Rotorua Boy's High School

Girls Championship

In the biggest-ever girls’ grade in NZSS history, the 13 competing teams gave spectators a showcase of physical, fast-paced and exciting footy, as teams put on strong displays throughout the day. At the end of Day 1, four teams remained undefeated, with reigning champions Auckland Girls’ Grammar School sitting ahead of the pack. They finished the day with 62 points for and just six against after dominant performances against Kelston Girls’ High School and Tokoroa High School. 2025 Grand Finalists Rotorua Girls’ High School followed closely in second, also undefeated but trailing by just eight points (F/A), while South Auckland’s McAuley High School rounded out the top three.  

Top 5 standings:

  1. Auckland Girls' Grammar School
  2. Rotorua Girls High School
  3. McAuley High School
  4. Avonside Girls' School
  5. Manurewa High School

Boys Championship

The biggest tournament grade, the 20-team Championship proved highly competitive, with seven teams finishing the day with two wins from two, leaving points differential to determine the standings. Leading the way are Christchurch’s Shirley Boys’ who recorded back-to-back 40-0 victories over Papakura High School and Te Kōpuku High School to sit top of the table without conceding a single point. Following closely behind are New Plymouth Boys’ High School, Whangaparāoa College, Westlake Boys’ High School and new entrants King’s College, all also finishing the day unbeaten.

Top 5 standings:

  1. Shirley Boys' High School
  2. New Plymouth Boys' High School
  3. Whangaparāoa College
  4. Westlake Boys High School
  5. King's College (Auckland)

The morning of Day 2 will see the remaining pool matches in the Boys’ Premiership while the Boys and Girls Championships head straight into quarter-finals, before semi-finals take place across all three grades in the afternoon to determine Sunday’s Grand Finalists.

See all results & draws: www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl

Watch Field 1 live on Sky Sport and keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages.

Article Link

Tipene crowned inaugural winners of the U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals

The three-day tournament proved a successful first chapter for the NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals. Emerging players showcased their skills and players newer to the game gained valuable game time. Rangatahi had the opportunity to represent their schools, build connections with their teammates, and enjoy the game alongside their schoolmates.

Grand Final: Tipene St. Stephen's School 16 vs Manurewa High School 14

Manurewa took an early lead, with a double from Czezar Panapa and a try to Marley Roache putting them 14-0 ahead. Not out of the fight, Tipene hit back early in the second half, scoring two tries through Tapu Teepa and Strickland Cecil-Mahani to close the gap. However, a third try to Jah Sean Albrett, combined with determined defence to keep Manurewa at bay, secured Tipene the victory and the 2026 Cup.

In the remaining placings, St. Paul’s bested Kelston to claim third, while Tokoroa finished fifth to round out the top five.

Final standings:

1. Tipene St. Stephen's School - Auckland

2. Manurewa High School - Auckland

3. St. Paul's College - Auckland

4. Kelston Boys' High School - Auckland

5. Tokoroa High School - Tokoroa, Waikato

6. Southern Cross Campus - Auckland

7. Te Haikura a Kiwa (James Cook) - Auckland

8. Hamilton Boys' High School - Hamilton, Waikato

9. Trident High School - Whakatāne, Bay of Plenty

10. Tamaki College - Auckland

11. Te Kopuku High School (Mahaukura) - Hamilton, Waikato

12. St. Patrick's College Silverstream - Upper Hutt, Wellington

13. Papakura High School - Auckland

Article Link

Christchurch World Cup double-header nearing a sell-out

Limited tickets remain for the Rugby League World Cup 2026 Men’s and Women’s double-header at OneNZ Stadium Christchurch on October 25.

The doubleheader at the recently opened indoor stadium is the only World Cup fixture staged in New Zealand, and fans will be able to see both national teams, the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns, in action.

The Kiwi Ferns play France, and the Kiwis take on the Cook Islands in Round 2 of Rugby League World Cup 2026.

More than 140,000 World Cup tickets have been sold so far across the tournament, with other fixtures in high demand including the opening match between the Kangaroos and Kiwis at Allianz Stadium on October 15 and the final at Suncorp Stadium on November 15.

There is also strong interest in both semi-finals at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on November 7 and Allianz Stadium on November 8, as well as the Kangaroos v Fiji match at Suncorp Stadium on October 25 and the clash of Pacific powerhouses Samoa and Tonga at CommBank Stadium on November 1.

The Kiwis open their World Cup campaign with a mouthwatering match against Australia at Allianz Stadium on October 15 and also play Fiji at Cbus Super Stadium on October 30.

The Kiwi Ferns meet Fiji first up at McDonald Jones Stadium on October 18 and finish the group stage against Papua New Guinea at Cbus Super Stadium on October 30 as part of a triple header that also includes Fiji Bulikula playing France.

Tickets to Rugby League World Cup 2026 matches start from just $19 and fans are urged to take advantage of the affordable pricing before games sell out.

For information about tickets, the draw and World Cup news, visit rlwc2026.com

Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.

Article Link

U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals: Finalists decided

On Day 2 of the inaugural NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals, the 13 competing schools took to the field for quarter-final and semi-final match-ups, with Grand Final berths on the line.

Manurewa secured the first spot in the 2026 Grand Final after defeating Hamilton Boys’ 38-4 in the opening round, before producing another impressive performance to overcome defending champions Kelston Boys’ 20-0 in the semi-finals.

St. Paul’s College advanced to the semi-finals with a 32-4 victory over Te Haikura a Kiwa, while Tipene defeated Southern Cross 30-4 to book their place in the final four. Tipene then continued their unbeaten run, defeating St. Paul’s College 20-10 to secure the second Grand Final spot and set up a showdown with Manurewa.

Te Kōpuku recorded their first victory of the tournament with a win over Papakura High School, after falling to Trident who also secured a win over St. Patrick’s.

2026 NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals finals

Cup Final 1st/2nd 12:00 pm -  Manurewa High School vs Tipene St. Stephen's

3rd/4th place final 11:00 am - Kelston Boys' High School vs St. Paul's College

See all results & the full finals day draw: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-secondary-schools-tournament-1

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW...

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.