Champions crowned at the 2025 National District 9s
Boys 18s
After taking out Waikato in the semis, Wellington cemented their place in the final in a bid to go back-to-back. With Bay of Plenty taking out a tough semi against Auckland Blue 8-4 with a late try, it was going to be a tough final.GRAND FINAL: Wellington Orcas vs Bay of Plenty Lakers
Final score: Bay of Plenty Lakers 10-6 In the final showdown of the weekend, Bay of Plenty took it to the Orcas immediately. They took the kick off, gained good metres to get across the line and take the lead right from the off. But Wellington didn’t lay down, with some good possession near the Lakers’ line seeing them get the 4 points. A great conversion in the wind giving them the 2-point buffer. Bay of Plenty fought back. Off the kick off, on the last they managed to out sprint the Wellington defenders to recover their own kick and take back the lead. Another conversion and the Lakers were in front 10-6. A tight second half saw both teams not able to take their opportunities. Bay of Plenty nearly had two tries on the left wing, one over the sideline just before dotting down. Wellington on the other hand, on what was to be the last play of the game, busted through to sprint 50-odd metres. Unable to connect the pass, the whistle blew and Bay of Plenty were crowned 2025 champions.Girls 18s
With Auckland defeated last year by Canterbury, they were looking to go one better this year. In their way in the semis were Waikato, who they dispatched 18-8. On the other side of the draw Manawatu took out the Northern Swords 20-12 to set up the final clash.GRAND FINAL: Auckland Blue vs Manawatu Mustangs
Final score: Auckland Blue 18-0 Manawatu looked to set the tone in the final, immediately busting through after the kick off. Once near the line, the final pass by the Mustangs went along the floor, unfortunately the overlap coming to nothing. Manawatu went close again near the left corner later in the game, only for Auckland to steal the pass, leaving the game scoreless. After another steal by Auckland, an over-the-top pass set their winger off for a 70m sprint to the line. With no one able to catch her, Auckland were able to grab the lead, which they held onto as they went into half time. In the second half, Auckland started off strong from the kick off, muscling their way up to score immediately and extend the lead. A messy kick off next and Auckland were able to get good field position. Unfortunately for them, they coughed up the ball as they crossed the line – a lifeline to Manawatu. Manawatu were then able to make their way up the field, but 10 metres out with numbers on the right, the pass didn’t connect meaning another opportunity lost. Auckland punished the mistake making their way up the field before slicing through the defence to score again. With one more try to Auckland before the hooter, they were just too good. Auckland grab the title with a 18-0 win.Boys 16s
It was an Auckland versus Auckland showdown in the semis, guaranteeing another Auckland team in the final the same as last year. But it was the White team that came out the victors, 18-6. Meanwhile, Wellington kept Bay of Plenty scoreless 22-0 to emphatically march into the finals.GRAND FINAL: Auckland White vs Wellington Orcas
Final score: Auckland White 12-6 It was end-to-end footy to open the Boys 16s clash, but with a couple of back-to-back penalties against Wellington, Auckland were able to grab some good territory. It wasn’t long before another penalty near the posts saw Auckland able to bust over – but they were held up. Eventually the Auckland half stepped the defence to open the scoring and give Auckland the lead, the only points in the first half. It was all on in the second half with a nice step from a Wellington player sending him through the line. On the next play a hand off on the right wing saw Wellington go over to level up. And with the conversion going over, the lead was theirs, 6-4. But Auckland caught Wellington napping off the next kick off. With easy metres down the right edge, they crossed over the line to take the lead back immediately. And with a Wellington knock on from the next kick off, Auckland struck back with a second try in just as many minutes, taking the wind out of Wellington. With only a converted try in it, Wellington had a last-ditch effort on the left wing, a pop pass putting the winger in space but eventually Wellington was tumbled over the side line. Auckland was able to hold on for the 12-6 win, giving Auckland back-to-back titles.Girls 16s
Both last year’s finalists, Waikato and Wellington were on the hunt to make it to the finals again. However, whilst Waikato fell agonisingly short to Manawatu, 12-10, Wellington beat Bay of Plenty by the same scoreline to keep their hopes alive.GRAND FINAL: Manawatu Mustangs vs Wellington Orcas
Final score: Manawatu Mustangs 18-0 After a close encounter yesterday between the two teams, with Manawatu coming out on top 18-16, Wellington was looking to take it to the Mustangs. But two early fumbles of the ball gave Manawatu too much field position, and the Mustangs struck first down the left edge. Not long after they had the ball back again, making good metres down the right wing before swinging to the other side for another try. Wellington did have their chance at the end of the first half but couldn’t convert, down 8-0 at the half. With everything to do in the second for Wellington, a knock on by Manawatu off the kick off gave Wellington good impetus. As thy got closer, a dive over the line resulted in a knock on and it was another chance for Wellington gone begging. Later, Wellington got close again down the right edge but two more tries by Manawatu, one an end-to-end try by the winger, and the gap was far too big. Wellington will rue their chances – a second year in a row as runner’s up – but Manawatu secure the title with an emphatic 18-0 win. For all draws and results, visit Sporty.All the NEWS. All the VIEWS.
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Coastline men & Northland women National Championship winners
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.
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.
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.
North Island Senior tournaments: Men's Championship finalists locked in
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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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.
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.”
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
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.
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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.
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:
- Kelston Boys' High School
- St. Thomas of Canterbury College
- De La Salle College
- Dilworth School
- Mt. Albert Grammar School
Pool B standings:
- Manurewa High School
- St. Paul's College
- Southern Cross Campus
- Whangārei Boys’ High School
- 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:
- Auckland Girls' Grammar School
- Rotorua Girls High School
- McAuley High School
- Avonside Girls' School
- 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:
- Shirley Boys' High School
- New Plymouth Boys' High School
- Whangaparāoa College
- Westlake Boys High School
- 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.
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