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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Remembering Pat Spellman
New Zealand Rugby League very sadly mourns the passing of sports stalwart Pat Spellman (Ngāti Maruwharanui, Mangaia), a renowned local sports journalist, broadcaster, administrator, and supporter.
Pat was a beloved and well-known member of the wider sports community in Aotearoa, and was an admired emcee of several NZRL national tournaments from 2017-2019.
He held a number of roles within media, including at Moana Radio, while being a major advocate for the sport of touch, working closely with Touch New Zealand and Māori Touch New Zealand for years. Pat co-founded the Pacific Cup Sports Trust with the purpose of growing Pasifika participation in touch, and worked for CLM Leisure Management.
Pat has left a lasting legacy in Aotearoa and beyond that will be remembered for years to come. We offer our sincerest condolences to Pat's whānau, friends, community, and all who knew and loved him. Moe mai rā e te rangatira.
JD Sports announces first national team sponsorship with NZRL
Global sports fashion retailer JD Sports has partnered with New Zealand Rugby League, marking JD Sports' first sponsorship of a national team, coming on board as Major Partner & Official Sneaker Supplier of the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis.
The partnership brings together two brands with a shared passion for sport, culture and style, with JD Sports set to put its mark on New Zealand's national rugby league teams as the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis prepare to represent Aotearoa on the world stage.
As Major Partner & Official Sneaker Supplier, JD will fit out all players in exclusive Only at JD Sports product throughout the tournament and will be present at moments that matter during the World Cup, giving fans a different look at what the NZRL teams are getting up to.
NZRL General Manager of Communications and Marketing, Amy Thomason, said:
"JD Sports is a brand that understands the role sport plays in culture, particularly with younger audiences, and that makes this a really exciting partnership for us.
"We're looking forward to JD bringing great energy to the Rugby League World Cup, and together putting the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis firmly in the spotlight not only on, but off the field."
Michael Weatherston, JD Sports APAC Marketing Director said:
"We're incredibly proud to partner with New Zealand Rugby League as our first ever national team sponsorship. Having the iconic JD roundel on the NZRL national jersey, and a presence at a World Cup is a special moment for us. We're continuing to strengthen our connection with fans through our sports partnerships we’ve built over the past nine years, meeting our audience in cultural moments that matter most.
"As we expand our store base in New Zealand, we want to continue to show up for New Zealanders with the right partnerships that drive passion and engagement with our core audience. Leveraging each team off pitch through our range of exclusive sports lifestyle products gives us a unique and credible access point within the Rugby League World Cup, and we’re excited to partner with the NZRL to build some amazing moments throughout the tournament. Expect to see us show up in a way that only JD can - driving highly engaging content and providing athletes with the best products that you can find only at JD.”
New Zealand Kiwis announce blockbuster squad for Rugby League World Cup
New Zealand Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones has named a formidable 23-man squad for the Rugby League World Cup, with their campaign kicking off in a week across New Zealand and Australia.
The squad combines a strong core of players from the 2025 Pacific Championships-winning side, alongside equally impressive new talent in line to make their Kiwis debuts.
Captain James Fisher-Harris will lead the side once again after a standout NRL season that saw him named Dally M Captain of the Year and Prop of the Year. Fellow Prop of the Year Naufahu Whyte returns fresh from an NRL premiership victory with the Sydney Roosters on Sunday, while two-time Lock of the Year Erin Clark will again add strength to the forward pack.
“We’re very excited for this World Cup campaign. We’ve been building towards this over the past few years, and winning the Pacific Championships last year was a big step in that journey,” said Jones.
“I’m confident in this squad. We’ve got a good mix of experienced players who have been part of the team for a long time, and some new blood who all bring great talent.”
The 2026 NRL Top Point Scorer, Jamayne Isaako, retains his place alongside Dolphins teammates Jeremy Marshall-King and Kodi Nikorima, who returns after last featuring for the Kiwis in 2024.
Melbourne Storm star Jahrome Hughes also makes his return to the Kiwis after an international hiatus due to injury. Last representing the Kiwis in their 2023 Pacific Championships Grand Final victory over Australia, Hughes will bolster the New Zealand spine.
Headlining the four potential debutants is Kalyn Ponga, the 2023 Dally M Medallist and Queensland Maroons representative, who pledged his allegiance to New Zealand earlier this year following changes to State of Origin and international eligibility rules. Ponga's Newcastle Knights and Māori All Stars teammate Dane Gagai also joins the squad for the first time, with the IRL Board recently approving his switch to New Zealand after he last represented Australia eight years ago.
New Zealand Warriors duo Jacob Laban and Tanner Stowers-Smith are also in line to make their Kiwis debuts, having both featured for the last Kiwis A side in 2023. Christchurch’s Stowers-Smith will also carry on a proud family legacy as the great-grandson of former Kiwis captain and great Pat Smith.
The Kiwis will open their World Cup campaign against Australia in Sydney in the RLWC competition opening match before returning to home soil to face the Cook Islands at Ōtautahi Christchurch’s One NZ Stadium. They will then travel to the Gold Coast for their final Pool match against Fiji.
The Rugby League World Cup Grand Finals will be played at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday, 15 November.
New Zealand Kiwis 2026 Rugby League World Cup squad
Name, Heritage Number, NRLW club
- Erin CLARK #842, New Zealand Warriors
- James FISHER-HARRIS #801, New Zealand Warriors
- Dane GAGAI, Newcastle Knights*
- Jahrome HUGHES #819, Melbourne Storm
- Jamayne ISAAKO #808, The Dolphins
- Keano KINI #836, Gold Coast Titans
- Jacob LABAN, New Zealand Warriors*
- Moses LEOTA #827, Penrith Panthers
- Jeremy MARSHALL-KING #830, The Dolphins
- Te Maire MARTIN #802, New Zealand Warriors
- Casey McLEAN #841, Penrith Panthers
- Ronaldo MULITALO #824, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
- Charnze NICOLL-KLOKSTAD #820, New Zealand Warriors
- Briton NIKORA #818, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
- Kodi NIKORIMA #793, The Dolphins
- Isaiah PAPALI'I #817, Penrith Panthers
- Kalyn PONGA, Newcastle Knights*
- Scott SORENSEN #831, Penrith Panthers
- Tanner STOWERS-SMITH, New Zealand Warriors*
- Joseph TAPINE #800, Canberra Raiders
- Leo THOMPSON #833, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
- Naufahu WHYTE #839, Sydney Roosters
- Xavier WILLISON #843, Brisbane Broncos
*denotes potential debutant
Kiwis Rugby League World Cup Fixtures:
Thursday 15 October 2026
Kiwis v Australia
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia
Sunday 25 October 2026
Kiwis v Cook Islands
One NZ Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand
Saturday 31 October 2026
Kiwis v Fiji
Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast, Australia
Star-studded Kiwi Ferns squad announced for Rugby League World Cup
New Zealand Rugby League today announced a star-studded Kiwi Ferns squad to hunt their fourth Rugby League World Cup title in the Australasia-based tournament this October.
Head Coach Ricky Henry’s strong 23 boasts a range of talent and experience with players delivering virtuosic performances across their respective NRLW seasons.
Co-Captain Raecene McGregor led from the front throughout her season, earning her runner-up for the Dally M Medal (just two points behind Australia’s Tamika Upton), as well as being named Dally M Halfback of the Year, and the Wests Tigers Player of the Year.
McGregor, Alexis Tauaneai, Leianne Tufuga, and newcomers Kaiyah Atai and Tenika Willison all took out their respective clubs’ top honours for their impressive, consistent NRLW performances.
“We are really excited for this campaign. The depth of Kiwi talent we had to select from made this a tough decision, but we have absolute faith in these women we have named to pull on the jersey this year,” said Henry.
“The way our last World Cup ended has lit the fire and hunger to go one better this time, and I believe we have the team to do that.”
Named as part of the 2025 wider squad, Willison’s outstanding season earns her a certified place this year, where she is reunited with fellow cross-code star and former Black Fern Sevens teammate Stacey Waaka. The talented duo won an Olympic gold medal together at the Tokyo 2020 Games, and, showing their strong athletic ability, both made their successful switch to league following the last Sevens Olympics campaign.
Returning to their roots, Chantay Kiria-Ratu and Kaiyah Atai join the squad after switching their allegiance from the Cook Islands, as do Shannon Mato and Zahara Temara, who have previously represented Australia. After joining last year’s squad as a late replacement, Trinity Tauaneai, younger sister of Alexis, has earned her place in the 23 and returns with an opportunity to make her debut.
The Kiwi Ferns assemble this weekend in Newcastle to kick off their Rugby League World Cup campaign against Fiji. They will then face France in Christchurch, and Papua New Guinea on the Gold Coast to fight for their place in the playoffs.
Kiwi Ferns 2026 Rugby League World Cup Squad:
Name, Heritage Number, NRLW club
- Brooke Anderson #172, St. George Illawarra Dragons
- Kaiyah Atai, New Zealand Warriors*
- Annessa Biddle #169, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
- Brianna Clark #164, Brisbane Broncos
- Georgia Hale #122, Gold Coast Titans
- Mele Hufanga #166, New Zealand Warriors
- Chantay Kiria-Ratu, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks*
- Ivana Lauitiiti #188, New Zealand Warriors
- Shannon Mato, Brisbane Broncos*
- Raecene McGregor #140, Wests Tigers
- Shaniece Monschau #189, Wests Tigers
- Apii Nicholls #134, New Zealand Warriors
- Shanice Parker #163, Newcastle Knights
- Otesa Pule #165, Sydney Roosters
- Ashleigh Quinlan #171, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
- Abigail Roache #168, North Queensland Cowboys
- Alexis Tauaneai #182, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
- Trinity Tauaneai, St. George Illawarra Dragons*
- Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa #173, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
- Zahara Temara, Canberra Raiders*
- Leianne Tufuga #170, Canberra Raiders
- Stacey Waaka, New Zealand Warriors*
- Tenika Willison, Newcastle Knights*
*denotes potential debutant
Kiwi Ferns Rugby League World Cup Fixtures:
Sunday 18 October 2026
Kiwi Ferns v Fiji
McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, Australia
Sunday 25 October 2026
Kiwi Ferns v France
One NZ Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand
Saturday 31 October 2026
Kiwi Ferns v Papua New Guinea
Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast, Australia
New Zealand Wheel Kiwis squad named for historic Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup debut
History awaits as the New Zealand Wheel Kiwis squad is named to represent Aotearoa, in what will be their first-ever Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup campaign in Wollongong, Australia.
The milestone competition will be held from 30 October, with the Wheel Kiwis set to face Australia, France, and Scotland in Pool B.
Preparation for the World Cup has been building since early 2026, with a wider squad following a dedicated training programme and competing in the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships and the recent inaugural NZRL Wheelchair Nationals.
The selected Wheel Kiwis 10-man squad combines experience, strength, and emerging talent, with five returning members from the first-ever Test side that faced Australia in 2024.
Among those returning are Nikia Fa’atau, Kauri Murray, and Wheel Kiwi #1 Jayson Hooker, who will captain the team throughout their World Cup campaign.
The squad also features five debutants in Jack Brown, Hayden Delves, Joshua Hirini-Barclay, Pele Sulusi, and Mitch Stone. While yet to earn Test caps, all five have experience in the national programme, representing the New Zealand Resident Wheel Kiwis sides that competed in the 2025 and 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships.
Head Coach Edie George will also return to lead the team, having been instrumental in the Wheel Kiwis programme since their maiden 2024 campaign. George has continued to develop the side through the 2025 and 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships and the NZRL Wheelchair Nationals.
The team will continue their preparations in the coming weeks, with the squad set to come together in Auckland for a connection and training camp before travelling to Australia for the World Cup.
The competition will mark another significant milestone in the growth of wheelchair rugby league in Aotearoa, as the Wheel Kiwis take their place on the international stage at their first World Cup campaign.
New Zealand Wheel Kiwis squad
1. Jack Brown*
2. Ryan Charles | Wheel Kiwi #6
3. Hayden Delves*
4. Nikia Fa’atau | Wheel Kiwi #2
5. Joshua Hirini-Barclay*
6. Jayson Hooker (Captain) | Wheel Kiwi #1
7. Kauri Murray (Vice-Captain) | Wheel Kiwi #4
8. Pele Sulusi*
9. Mitch Stone*
10. Jamie Tapp | Wheel Kiwi #7
*Denotes debutant
New Zealand Wheel Kiwis Staff
Head Coach: Edie George
Assistant Coach: Robert Graham (Wheel Kiwi #3)
Head Trainer: Lincoln Jefferson
Team Manager: Korral Heremaia
Physio: Megan Blair
Wellbeing Manager: Kylie Leuluai
Media Manager: Jeremy Siulepa
Analyst: Joseph Pouniu
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New Zealand Rugby League welcomes Geely as first official automotive partner
- Geely becomes NZRL’s first ever official vehicle partner in a three-year deal, supporting New Zealand Rugby League, the Kiwis and, from 2027, the Kiwi Ferns
- A twelve-car fleet of Geely Starray EM-i’s will hit the road across NZRL head office and regional associations, backing the people growing the game from grassroots to senior level
- Community connection sits at the centre of the partnership, helping NZRL reach and support rugby league communities across the country.
Geely, part of NordEast Vehicle Distributors Ltd, has been named the first ever official vehicle partner of New Zealand Rugby League and the Kiwis in a three-year partnership, with the Kiwi Ferns to be included from 2027. The partnership brings together two organisations focused on innovation, connection and growing rugby league across Aotearoa.
Coming off the back of a record sale’s month in September for Geely, the brands partnership will see twelve new Geely’s on the road to help grow the game throughout New Zealand communities. The fleet will serve NZRL's head office and regional associations, from the CEO through to the regional representatives driving growth in the amateur game, supporting everyone from kids picking up a ball for the first time, through to senior club teams.
The fleet is made up of the Geely Starray EM-i, with Geely's Electric Hybrid technology helping NZRL's associations extend their reach into communities throughout New Zealand. The cars will be wrapped in a new design created to align with the team uniform, turning every vehicle into a moving flag for NZRL wherever it travels.
Geely's commitment goes all the way to the top of the game. The brand will feature on the Kiwis’ jersey when they compete on the world stage at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, putting Geely in front of the massive, passionate audience that follows one of the country's biggest sports, and underscoring its belief in New Zealand's national sides.
NZRL CEO Andrea Nelson shared, "We're very excited to welcome Geely to the NZRL whānau and look forward to working together, with a shared focus on innovation and performance. We're proud to partner with a company that understands the importance of helping people go further, as we continue to grow our game across Aotearoa."
Geely combines world-class safety through its associated factory brands – such as Volvo – and global automotive expertise and advanced in-car technology to deliver moments of Everyday Magic for New Zealand drivers.
NordEast Group General Manager, Dane Fisher says, "The values that sit behind rugby league in New Zealand, community, resilience and opportunity, closely mirror what we're building with Geely. We're proud to stand alongside NZRL and support the people growing the game across the country. Whether it’s helping regional associations get further into their communities or backing the Kiwis on the world stage, this partnership is about creating positive impact and helping people go further.”
It is an exciting time for New Zealand Rugby League, with momentum building across the game and the Kiwis preparing to represent Aotearoa on the world stage. Geely's support strengthens that momentum, and with three years ahead, both organisations are looking forward to growing the partnership as it evolves, giving NZRL a partner aligned with its ambition to grow the sport, deepen community connection and improve access to the game nationwide.
National Youth Tournament: Counties take out three grades, Akarana win 18s boys
16s Boys
Grand Final | Counties Manukau 32 vs South Island 18
Counties opened the scoring with two early tries inside the first 10 minutes, but the South Islanders were undeterred, hitting back with two tries of their own. Counties scored the final try of the half to take a 16-8 lead over the Scorpions into the break.
They carried their scoring momentum into the second half, crossing for two more tries to extend their advantage. Although the Scorpions remained in the fight and responded with two tries, Counties lead was too great. They ran out 32-18 winners to claim the title, with back-rower Karcin Puna scoring a double and Kairoa Hynes adding eight points from the kicking tee.
New Zealand Residents 16s Boys team
Rome Faanana | Akarana
Te Kiriwera Hurae | Bay of Plenty
Devan Hansen | Bay of Plenty
Leonjay Salevao | Canterbury
Michael Fidow | Canterbury
Pharron Maletino | Counties Manukau
Tyler-James Finlay | Counties Manukau
Desmond Kingi | Counties Manukau
Reuben Ned Matautia | Counties Manukau
Siope To'ofohe | Counties Manukau
Dayton Edwards | Counties Manukau
Cordē King | Hawke's Bay
Arama McGlade | Hawke's Bay
Matai Jones | Northland
Boston Davis | South Island
Lian Knoetze | South Island
Jackson Robinson | South Island
Khan Te Paea | Taranaki
Finals MVP
Karcin Puna | Counties Manukau
Emerging Player
Jak Lawn | Taranaki
MVP of the Tournament
Jackson Robinson | South Island Scorpions
16s Girls
Grand Final | Counties Manukau 24 vs Auckland 10
The 16s Girls Grand Final was an intense battle from the outset, with both sides trading tries in the opening ten minutes before Counties edged ahead. Centre Madison Kaumavae crossed twice to help give her side a 14-4 lead at the break.
Auckland came out firing in the second half, capitalising on a Counties error to score and narrow the margin to just 14-10. With the score unchanged and only seven minutes remaining on the clock, an incident saw two Vulcans players and one Counties player shown cards and sent from the field for the remainder of the match. With the extra player advantage, Counties scored twice in quick succession to seal the 16s Girls title for a fifth consecutive year.
New Zealand Residents 16s Girls team
Tania Savali | Akarana
Lynneera Tutaia | Akarana
Sasha Toailoa | Akarana
Tupou Grace Havea Pahulu | Auckland
Braxton Brown | Counties Manukau
Kimora-Lee Lisone | Counties Manukau
Presley McGarvey | Counties Manukau
Tamara Lam | Counties Manukau
Jovana Paselio | Counties Manukau
Caitlyn Pohahau | Counties Manukau
Tylah Fa'alili | Counties Manukau
Pewhairangi Ashby | Manawatū
Keighley-Rein Araia | Manawatū
Nahla Mackie | Northland
Kaea Jay Abraham | Northland
Hazel Lang | Waikato
Fabianni Napara | Waikato
Tahlia Timoteo | Wellington
Finals MVP
Presley McGarvey | Counties Manukau
Emerging Player
Ocean Burns | Akarana
MVP of the Tournament
Keighley-Rein Araia | Manawatū
18s Boys
Grand Final | Akarana 18 vs Counties Manukau 6
The 18s Boys Grand Final was an intense 50-minute battle, with both teams engaging in a physical contest and leaving everything on the field. Counties opened the scoring through second-rower Lyonidas Samuel, but Akarana responded with two tries before halftime, both through winger Israel Halalupe, to take a narrow 12-6 lead into the break.
Akarana added another try in the second stanza to extend their advantage, while tough defence kept Counties from crossing the line despite several close attempts. Akarana held on to secure an 18-6 victory and claim the 2026 title.
New Zealand Clubs 18s Boys team
Zak Schramm | Akarana
Kahmarley Andrews | Akarana
Solomon Westerlund | Akarana
Bailey Butler-Maruariki | Akarana
Isa Oto'oto | Akarana
Victor Kenese | Akarana
Uli Toki-Fisiifetau |Akarana
Jarno Andrewes | Auckland
Samas Kafoa | Auckland
Robert Pange | Auckland
Savelio-Anthony Pelenato | Auckland
Xavier Tavita-Saumanaia | Canterbury
Mason Cole | Canterbury
Kaci Heath | Canterbury
Ezra McCarthy | Counties Manukau
Ashton Ulaula-Ieremia | Counties Manukau
Siaosi Talakai-Alele | Counties Manukau
James Tulikaki | Counties Manukau
Tristan Ford-Walter | Counties Manukau
Tusi Liam Fanolua | Counties Manukau
Finals MVP
Ashton Ulaula-Ieremia | Counties Manukau
Emerging Player
Makarios Vaihola | Wellington
MVP of the Tournament
Ashton Ulaula-Ieremia | Counties Manukau
18s Girls
Grand Final | Counties Manukau 32 vs Auckland 6
The Counties wāhine took an early lead, scoring three tries. Despite being scoreless at halftime, Auckland remained in the hunt, creating several close opportunities and keeping the deficit to just 12-0, with Counties unable to add any conversions.
The Aucklanders started the second half strongly, scoring an early try to get their first points on the board. However, Counties responded with a try of their own to regain momentum, going on to dominate the remainder of the match and secure a 32-6 victory, centre Armeliah Isara finishing with a double.
New Zealand Clubs 18s Girls team
Jaelynn Marsh | Akarana
Chrisena Nathan | Auckland
Tylah Waddington | Auckland
Aliyah Peka Tanoai | Auckland
Stella Leef | Auckland
Maraea Makiha | Bay of Plenty
Makayla Graham | Bay of Plenty
Lily Clarke | Bay of Plenty
Shanthie Lui | Counties Manukau
Armeliah Isara | Counties Manukau
Tayla Peters | Counties Manukau
Betsy Fifita | Counties Manukau
Jayralee Tonga | Counties Manukau
Moonlight Moala | Counties Manukau
Ella Leauga | Manawatū
Maddison Renae Seumanutafa | Manawatū
Gabriella Wright | Manawatū
Te Ami Amairi Te Hei | Manawatū
Taliah Mapakaitolo | Wellington
Casey Sio | Wellington
Finals MVP
Armeliah Isara | Counties Manukau
Emerging Player
Karamea Driscoll Maruariki | Akarana
MVP of the Tournament
Shanthie Lui | Counties Manukau
Referees Awards
Young Referee of the Tournament | Cody Docherty
Referee's Choice of the Tournament | Aleigha Macdonald-Cope
Referee of the Tournament | Luke Whittaker
National Youth Tournament: Counties, Auckland & South Island secure finals spots
On Day 2 of the National Youth Tournament, Bruce Pulman Park remained windy with sporadic showers continuing throughout the day - but the weather did little to deter the participating rangatahi and supporters who still turned out in force.
The 16s boys’ and girls’ grades went straight into quarter-finals before battling through semis to lock in their Grand Finalists. The 18s girls also contested their quarter-finals and semi-finals, while the 18s boys completed pool play before moving into quarters, with semi-finals locked in for tomorrow morning.
Grand Finals kick off from 10:00 am on Field 1, all broadcast live on Sky Sport.
16s Boys
With the top eight seeded teams heading straight into quarter-finals in the opening round of the day, Counties dominated Bay of Plenty, South Island edged Hawke's Bay by two points, Taranaki narrowly defeated Wellington by a try, and a strong Canterbury side defeated the 2025 champions Akarana, 24-12.
In semi-final 1, Counties eliminated the Cantabrians from title contention with a 14-0 win, and the South Island Scorpions dominated Taranaki 34-6 in the second semi-final to book a Grand Final spot against Counties.
16s Boys Grand Final | Counties Manukau vs South Island 10:00 am
16s Girls
Over in the 16s girls quarters, Counties convincingly beat Northland, Auckland edged out Waikato by just four points, Wellington also bested Manawatū by a try in a high-scoring contest, and Akarana proved too strong for Bay of Plenty.
Four-time defending champions Counties then defeated Akarana 14-4 in the first semi-final, while Auckland overcame Wellington 18-4 to secure their place in the big dance. This sets up a Counties vs Auckland Grand Final, a rematch of the 2025 decider.
16s Girls Grand Final | Counties Manukau vs Auckland 11:10 am
18s Boys
In Pool A of the 18s Boys, Auckland completed an undefeated run to top the table, while 2025 champions Canterbury finished second with just one loss to Auckland. Similarly in Pool B, Akarana finished Day 2 unbeaten, with Counties securing second place after only losing to the frontrunners.
The semi-finals kick off at 9:00 am tomorrow, with Auckland facing Counties and Akarana taking on Canterbury. Both match-ups are set to be intense contests as the teams battle for a place in the Grand Final.
18s Boys Grand Final | TBC 12:20 pm
18s Girls
In the 18s Girls grade, teams completed the final round of pool play in the morning, before the top two teams from each pool crossed over in the afternoon semi-finals.
Counties finished unbeaten 3-0 to top Pool A, with Auckland finishing second. In Pool B, Bay of Plenty claimed the top spot after an upset victory over Akarana, who still advanced in second.
Counties proved too strong for Akarana in their semi-final, cruising to a 40-0 victory. In the other semi-final, the Auckland Vulcans defeated Bay of Plenty 20-10. The Bay side made a valiant second-half comeback, but the Vulcans held on to secure their place in the Grand Final.
18s Girls Grand Final | Counties Manukau vs Auckland 1:40 pm
See all results & draws here: sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-youth-competition
Keep up with all the action on the NZRL grassroots social pages: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots
National Youth Tournament Day 1 results
42 teams from 13 different Zones and Districts from across Aotearoa descended on Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park, ready to make their mark at the 2026 NZRL National Youth Tournament. Despite the rain showers and strong winds, the fields were buzzing with young players, team staff, and supporters, as round-robin action got underway across all four boys’ and girls’ grades.
Day 2 tomorrow will see round-robin games continue, before semi-finals and grand finals take place on Tuesday.
All Field 1 games are broadcast live on Sky Sport.
16s Girls
Counties, Auckland, Manawatū and Bay of Plenty lead the pack of 11 teams at the end of Day 1, all undefeated. Counties recorded the biggest win of the day, 52-0 over Canterbury, while Waikato edged Akarana in a 14-12 upset in Round 1. Manawatū and Northland also had an intense clash, a last-minute Manawatū try securing them an 18-16 win.
18s Girls
In Pool A of the 18s Girls grade, Counties took an early lead, finishing as the only undefeated team of the day after winning two from two against Waikato and Auckland. Similarly in Pool B, the wāhine from the Bay of Plenty put the pool on notice after securing two wins over Wellington and Akarana. The top two teams from each pool at the end of Day 2 will advance to semi-finals.
16s Boys
In the largest grade of the tournament with 13 competing teams, Counties Manukau, South Island and Taranaki finished the day in the top three, all recording two wins from two. Counties showed their strength with a 22-4 win over Northland and 54-0 defeat of Manawatū.
18s Boys
Over in the 18s grade, Canterbury and Auckland claim the top two spots of Pool A, while Akarana and Counties lead Pool B - all undefeated. Akarana had the biggest win of the day, keeping Waikato scoreless 40-0. In Pool B, Bay of Plenty and South Island played a thriller, BoP emerging winners by a kick. As in the 18s Girls, the top two teams from each pool at the end of Day 2 will advance to semi-finals.
See all results & draws here: sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-youth-competition
Keep up with all the action on the NZRL grassroots social pages: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots
National Premierships: Auckland men get the upset & Counties women go back-to-back
The National Men’s Premiership and Sky Sport Women’s Premiership Grand Finals got underway at Bruce Pulman Park, with supporters braving blistering winds and showers to get behind their teams.
The men’s Grand Final delivered a thrilling contest that went down to the wire, culminating in an upset victory, while the women’s Grand Final saw a dominant performance as the champions asserted their control from the outset.
National Men's Premiership
Auckland 22 Counties Manukau 18
The Men’s Premiership Grand Final went down to the wire, with defending champions Counties Manukau and Auckland putting their bodies on the line in a tough, physical battle for the national title. Counties struck first through veteran forward Albert Vete, before centre Antony Naitoko crossed to extend their lead. The Vulcans hit back through the elusive Andre Kahui-Singh, keeping themselves in the competition with the score at 12-6 heading into the break.
Auckland came out firing in the second half, with halfback Tama Darlington crossing and converting his own try to level the scores and swing the momentum firmly in their favour. Auckland would go on to cross for two more tries to take the lead, with a late response by Counties as Naitoko crossed for his second of the afternoon with just two minutes remaining. Auckland held firm to complete the upset and claim the national title with a 22-18 victory. Darlington played a key role in the Vulcans' comeback, finishing with 10 points from a try and three conversions, and teammate Kahui-Singh winning Finals MVP.
Sky Sport National Women's Premiership
Counties Manukau 36 Wellington 10
Counties set the tone from the opening whistle, with veteran captain and powerhouse forward Onjeurlina Hunt making an unstoppable line break in the opening minute of the game to open the scoring. Wellington hit back with a try of their own, with a swinging attack play to their left edge for winger Hinemaia Uruamo-Taiaki to score from dummy half and put their first points on the board. Despite the Orcas' try, Counties were not deterred and showed their strength in the middle of the park, crossing for three more tries before the break to take control of the contest 24-4.
The Stingrays carried that scoring momentum into the second half, while Wellington managed just one more try as Counties continued to build their lead. At full-time, Counties had secured a 36-10 victory and retained their national title for another year. Halfback Tiana Thomson was instrumental in guiding her side around the park and proved equally vital with the boot landing four conversions, her standout performance earning her Finals MVP honours.
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Counties and Auckland confirm National Men’s Premiership finals spots
The Counties Manukau Stingrays and Auckland Vulcans have secured their spots in the National Men’s Premiership Grand Final after defeating South Island sides Canterbury and Otago respectively in their semi-finals at Bruce Pulman Park today.
Canterbury and Otago will meet in the third-place play-off, with all Men's and Women's Premiership finals set for Bruce Pulman tomorrow in conjunction with Day 1 of the NZRL National Youth Tournament.
The Counties women will face Wellington in the Sky Sport National Women’s Premiership Grand Final, as decided at the Napier qualifying tournament two weeks ago. Having met earlier in the tournament, the two strong sides are familiar with each other, setting the stage for an intense rematch tomorrow afternoon.
National Premiership Finals | Sunday 27 September, Bruce Pulman Park Auckland
National Men's Premiership third place final | Canterbury vs Otago 11:00 am
National Men's Premiership Grand Final | Counties vs Auckland 1:00 pm
Sky Sport National Women's Premiership Grand Final | Counties Manukau vs Wellington 2:00 pm
Auckland 24 Canterbury 10
The South Islanders came out firing, taking an early lead through tries to loose forward Cyris Timo-Latu and Amby Palega, both converted successfully. Not out of the fight, the Aucklanders hit back with two tries in quick succession to bring the score to 12-10 at half-time, with Canterbury holding a narrow two-point lead.
The second half saw an intense back-and-forth battle for the opening 15 minutes, before Auckland broke the deadlock with another try to take the lead for the first time. The momentum shifted firmly in their favour from there, with the Cantabrians unable to find a way through for points or keep the Aucklanders at bay. Auckland crossed twice more to seal a 24-12 victory and secure their place in the Grand Final.
Counties Manukau 42 Otago 0
Led around the park by skilful halfback William Fakatoumafi, Counties proved too strong for the Otago side. The score sat at just 16-0 at half-time, with Otago defending strongly and doing well to foil multiple Counties try-scoring opportunities. But Counties lifted the intensity after the break, putting their foot down in the second half. Fakatoumafi and winger Jerry Poutu both finished with doubles, while centre Antony Naitoko crossed for a hat-trick. Standoff Tyrone Waipouri also contributed 12 points, scoring a try and landing five conversions as Counties ran out 42-0 winners.
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National Youth Tournament & National Premiership finals this weekend
The National Men's Premiership semi-finals, Grand Finals, and Sky Sport Women's Premiership Grand Finals are locked in for this Saturday and Sunday at Auckland's Bruce Pulman Park, following the thrilling qualifying tournaments in Napier and Christchurch.
The 2026 National Youth Tournament also kicks off at Bruce Pulman on Sunday, running through to Tuesday 29 September, with the boys’ and girls’ tournaments taking place together across the three days.
The tournament will see 42 District representative teams compete for national honours - a 16% increase from 2025 - across the 16s boys, 16s girls, 18s boys, and 18s girls grades, with 13 Districts from across Aotearoa being represented at the tournament.
Hawke’s Bay will enter the 16s boys and girls grades, adding another District to this year’s growing line-up. In the 16s boys, Coastline and Taranaki make their return to the grade. Over in the 18s, Northland return to the boys tournament, while Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Manawatū also re-enter the girls grade, adding further depth to the tournament.
National Men's Premiership semi-finals | Saturday 26 September
Canterbury Bulls vs Auckland Vulcans 12:00 pm
Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Otago Whalers 2:00 pm
National Men's Premiership Finals | Sunday 27 September
Third place final 11:00 am
Grand Final 1:00 pm
Sky Sport Women's Premiership Grand Final | Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Wellington Orcas 2:00 pm
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. All Premiership finals will be live broadcast, as well as all National Youth Tournament Field 1 games including Grand Finals on Tuesday.
For a $59.99 monthly Sky Sport Now pass, watch NZRL's National Men's Premiership, Sky Sport National Women's Premiership, National Youth Tournament, and the NZ Resident youth representative matches - as well as all the NRL and NRLW action, with playoffs continuing this weekend.
Broadcast replays will be uploaded to the NZRL YouTube channel in the following day/s.
Parking
Best spectator parking is available through Gate A (Walters Road) and Gate C (Kuaka Drive). Parking via Gate B (Walters Road) is reserved for allocated teams and staff, spectators will only be permitted entry to the carpark area closest to the road.
Food
A number of delicious food vendors will be on site throughout the weekend for supporters, whānau, and players to enjoy, including Sweet Azz Hawaiian BBQ, Karaage Boy, Hey Presto, Donut Waka, Mia's Real Fruit Ice Cream & Coffee, Addicted Coffee and Coffee Guy.
Keep up with all the tournament action on NZRL’s grassroots social media platforms: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots