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Kiwi Fern’s Emotional Quest to Discover her Identity

Oct 15, 2023
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Written by Suzanne McFadden as seen here on newsroom Explosive Kiwi Ferns centre Shanice Parker never met her Kiwi dad until her teens. Now the Aussie-born multi-code star is embracing new whānau and giving her son what she missed out on. Each time Shanice Parker pulls on the Kiwi Ferns jersey, it’s as if she’s adding another layer to a journey of discovery – finding out who she is. “So, my story’s a little different,” 25-year-old Parker, one of the most exciting outside backs in rugby league, says. “I didn’t know my dad until a bit later in my life. For a big part of my teenage years, I had a bit of an identity crisis.” But now Parker, who’s spent all her life in Australia, is filling the gaps in her story – learning her whakapapa and connecting with her whānau in the Waikato. And becoming a true-blue Kiwi Fern. Born in the Perth suburb of Yangebup, the daughter of former Jillaroo league star Danielle Parker, Shanice always knew she was Māori. But she knew nothing of her New Zealand dad until she was 11, and didn’t meet him for the first time till she was 16. At first, she played footy for her country of birth – but in rugby, for both the Australian Sevens, then the Wallaroos 15s. But as she began to connect with her Kiwi whānau (she’s Tainui, Ngāti Korokī Kahukura) and switched codes to rugby league, Parker realised she wanted to play for the Māori All Stars, and then for New Zealand. To represent this other half of her life she was unearthing. Now she’s a mother, to 22-month-old Jakari, Parker says the journey is even more special. “It's really ignited a drive to give my son what I never had,” she says. A new language, a new culture, a new family. Sitting next to a pool in Townsville, where she’ll line up for the Kiwi Ferns in the Pacific Championship opener against the Jillaroos tonight, Parker is missing her little boy. When she made her debut for the Kiwi Ferns a year ago, at the World Cup in England, she was able to take Jakari – then 10 months old – with her. Along with fullback Apii Nicholls and her one-year-old, Felix, they were part of a ground-breaking policy introduced by coach Ricky Henry – encouraging young mums to keep their babies with them on tour. This past week, Jakari has been at home in Newcastle with Parker’s partner, former league player Kiah Cooper. But Cooper’s mum will fly to Townsville today with Jakari, so he can travel with Parker to Auckland, where the Kiwi Ferns play Tonga at Eden Park next Saturday. There's no shortage of “aunties” in the Kiwi Ferns offering to look after Kari. “In fact, he's going to spend the week with my dad going to the kohanga reo where my dad works,” Parker says. “My son is really lucky because he's got two of the best cultures in the world – he's Aboriginal on his dad's side, and Māori on mine. “That's why I really love immersing myself in these Kiwi Ferns camps because I'm on my own journey as well. It started once my dad came into my life. So being in these camps really just feels so cup-filling.” When she first met her dad, Robin White, and his wife, Holly, Parker was unsure whether they would begin a relationship. “It’s been kind of a weird feeling, because as soon as we connected, it was just like they’d always been there,” she says. “It just felt so natural and everything made sense in that moment. Now I have extended whānau everywhere I go. It's pretty cool.” The Newcastle Knights scoring star – who’s also a youth worker, studying for a health degree – feels blessed to have a support network in two countries now. “I know it takes a village to raise a child. The girls I play with are a big part of that, but also my partner and his family back home," she says. “Kiah has held it down for us and been so supportive for me to come back into the elite space after having Kari. I wouldn't be here without him, and all of them.” Parker hopes her son will one day look back and appreciate growing up on league sidelines around the world. “Obviously he won't remember going on all these trips, which are a luxury my mum never had in her playing career,” says Parker, who was two when her mum played for the Jillaroos at the 2000 World Cup in England, while she stayed in Perth with her mum’s family. “Mum had to pay her own way, and it would have been expensive to take a baby and a carer with her. “So it's really cool how the game has evolved in that sense of supporting women if they have kids, or whatever they do career-wise. I know we're very fortunate, and we really respect and honour the women who’ve come before us to create this pathway.” Being a kid watching her mother play moulded the multi-talented player Parker has become. “Mum obviously played a massive part in the player and the person that I am today. Six days a week, my siblings and I were at the footy fields – whether it was union, tag or league,” says Parker, who started playing league at five. “There were other people in my life – like my aunty and my nana on my mum's side – who were really important influences around my sport. My aunty [Melanie Wallis] played league for a Prime Minister’s squad, and even my Nana played. Well, not very well, but she jumped on the field with my aunty and mum.” Mum Danielle is still playing club league in Perth: “She tries, she hobbles along,” Parker laughs. It was her mum who encouraged her to leave home at 18 and move across the continent to take up a rugby union contract with the Australian Sevens – turning down a place in the Jillaroos training squad. Having taken up rugby at 15, she could see the professional opportunities sevens would give her. Multi-code legend Honey Hireme-Smiler remembers seeing the young Aussie bolter playing sevens (it turns out they're related by marriage). “Shanice seems so chill and shy off the field, but when she’s on it, she’s a real competitor,” say Hireme-Smiler, now a Kiwi Ferns selector. “She has a massive game face, and she’s right in there. She’s such a dynamic and powerful player – she’s got speed and height, and amazing skills to play anywhere. She's the full package.” Parker started playing league again in 2018, and the next year made her NRLW debut with the title-winning Sydney Roosters. This year she collected her third NRLW crown, but with the defending champions Newcastle Knights, scoring an early try in their 24-18 win over the Gold Coast Titans. “Back-to-back championship victories don't happen that often, so we're in a very privileged position,” she says. “It's just so good to be surrounded by elite players like [NRLW Player of the Year] Tamika Upton, and Jesse and Hannah Southwell. And I'm fortunate enough to have that here with the Kiwi Ferns as well.” Though some believe Parker is now playing some of her best football, she feels as though she’s just hitting her stride. “When I look back at where I've been, my confidence since having my son has just sprouted,” she says. “I feel like I'm paying good footy because I'm having fun and I'm loving what I do. But there's always little areas that I feel like I can tweak and improve on.” But at 25, she reckons she won’t have long to make any modifications. She calls herself an “old girl” now and see her retirement only a few years away. “When you become a mum, your priorities change. I love having my time away and keeping that little piece of yourself alive which is so important. So I'll play maybe another three to four years and then I'll be moving on,” she says. “Well, I say that now.” The next World Cup in 2026 stands as a beacon in her career after last year’s disappointment, when a serious knee injury in a “weird, ugly tackle” in the second game against the Cook Islands ruled her out for the rest of the tournament. Parker wouldn’t mind another shot at rugby – specifically with Chiefs Manawa in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition. “If I had the chance to play a season with the Chiefs, it'd be good for me to be around my Kiwi family,” she says. “But I love league, I love the space. We're all very supportive of each other and the sport has come from a long history of women getting nothing, to now being able to provide a bit more for our families and for ourselves.” In the meantime, she wants to make her mark as a Kiwi Fern starter and establish herself as a leader; she’s just been named in a support role for new co-captains Georgia Hale and Raecene McGregor. “Honestly, when Ricky asked me to be involved in the leadership group, I was a bit taken aback – but I guess I'm ready to step into that role now,” she says. “I've been a part of the game for a long time and I'm one of the older heads – and older bodies –in this very youthful side. So I’m really privileged to be part of the leadership squad.” There are 11 debutants in the Kiwi Ferns line-up for this series, including Annessa Biddle, the NRLW Rookie of the Year and Players Player of the Year, who'll combine with Parker in the centres tonight. “I watched all of our debutants – but Annessa in particular – through the whole NRLW campaign. She came over and started off so hard, like one of the strongest outside backs in the game. Hopefully we'll see a bit more of that on Saturday," Parker says. “We've got so much talent that's being unearthed. I'm excited for the future of the Kiwi Ferns. It’s like the beginning of a new era.” Away from the field, Parker has become a master of multi-tasking. On top of her league training, she works four days a week as a youth worker coordinating wellbeing programmes in schools. And she’s studying for a Bachelor of Health and Movement degree to eventually become a teacher. “It’s all self-inflicted stress really,” she laughs. “My day usually starts by dropping off my son to daycare, going to work from seven till three, then driving an hour to get straight into training. Everything's go go go – it's like I don’t really have time to breathe sometimes. “But being a parent is the hardest job of all. Sometimes I miss out on a lot of the cool things, as I get home from training like around 9pm and Kari's in bed.” But she hopes her son will one day understand. “Having Kari reignited a spark and gave me more purpose – not just in footy but in life,” Parker says. “I love what I'm doing and I hope one day he can look back at this and say ‘My mum was so cool’. It's cool to be able to be that female role model in his life.”

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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.

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Sunday 13 September

Mitre 10 Sports Park, Hastings

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

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

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Men's Championship

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

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

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Women's Championship

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

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Men's Premiership

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

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

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Sky Sport Women's Premiership

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

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

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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.

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Sunday 13 September

Gold Coast Sports Precinct, 296 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara

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

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

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

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

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NZRL U19 Taurahere Girls & Boys teams

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Wāhine Tū | New South Wales

Shafenior Lui

Shanthie Lui

Limilaiti Paea

Catea Duff

Jessamine Aloalii

Ella Ropata

Bailey Lana Ma-Chong

Alleya Scrivens

Saige Tautalafua

Monica Ben

Irae Savea

Te Raukura Leafe

Riley Fruean

Mia Vaotu’ua

Naioka Tuipulotu

Julliana Kolio

Paige Tauaneai

Giovanna Suani

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Wāhine Toa | Queensland

Nivea Te Hokowhitu-Wynne

Olivia Filikitonga

Rangitiare Graham

Ava Kinikinilau

Sualo Lafoga

Bailee Drossaerts Lake

Mercedez Lisone Siaea

Iris Skeen

Sophie Parker-Cornelius

Lauryn Martin

Elishama Suavai

Genesis Tupa'i

Kayshana Rapana

Mia Ualesi

Sinalei Tupu

Tarryn McLatchie

Tiaho Mai Rangi Te Waiarani Wharawhara-Muriwai

Shya Peri

Desiyah Waipari-Leef

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Boys Tū | New South Wales

Caleb Fesolai

Joshua Fesolai

Phillip Lavakeiaho

Te Paeroa Wineera

Lockyer-Azile Foliola

Isaac Fotu-Moala

Alize Clarke

Dean Tauaa

Matthew Kereti

Jack Dean-Potaka

Zaylen Ekepati

Makisi Paea

Rhymen Tuilagi-tusi

Azariah Toki-Mautairi

Osaiasi Manu

Jerome Cosgrave

Waka Hammond

Jeziah Tua’au

Fine Fale

Isaiah Savea

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Boys Toa | Queensland

Charlie Dickson

Marley Igasan

Ezra Leota

Fa’apale Feaunati

Adaquix-Jeramiah Watts-Luke

Duquan Talaepa

Siosaia Piese

Santino Pekepo-Tevaga

Torino Jackson

Viliami Fifita

Tyler Pereira

Sitiveni Afu

Payton Gifford

Devin Bates-Wellington

Noah Fien

Eneliko Savelio

Azaiah Maile

Ruben Webb

David Bryenton

Mordecai Ngawati

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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.

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Draw

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

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Parking

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

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Food

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

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

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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.

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Draws and Broadcast

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

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

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

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

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Parking

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

Games will be played across Sports Fields 1-5.

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Food

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

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

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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

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16s Girls Tournament Team

1 Kimora-Lee Lisone | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

2 Leonie Bradbrooke | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

3 Tylah Fa'alili | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

4 Elisa Pasene | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

5 Alyssa-Mei Leauga | Avondale College

6 Fabianni Napara | Hamilton Girls' High School

7 Sofia Tovio-Smith | Hamilton Girls' High School

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

9 Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

10 Briarley McGee | Kelston Girls' College

11 Choicey Kuli | Kelston Girls' College

12 Jovana Paselio | Manurewa High School

13 Caitlyn Pohahau | McAuley High School

14 Keiti Tupou | McAuley High School

15 Piper Thompson | Rotorua Girls' High School

16 Presley McGarvey | Rotorua Girls' High School

17 Asaiah Kinghazel | Rotorua Girls' High School

18 Francella Nafoi-Seumalo | Tauranga Girls' College

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New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Girls Team

Casey Toese-Misa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Caszius Fatialofa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Jada-Breeze Gray | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Lala Vaea | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Sari Iefata | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Suraya Kingi | Auckland Girls' Grammar School

Akeliana-Faith Leauga | Avondale College

Khaidyn-Bre Teau | Avondale College

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

Metua Cranwell | Avonside Girls' High School

Tiahomoana Morgan | Avonside Girls' High School

Ryteous Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

Alaina Lauitiiti | McAuley High School

Kaiarihi Puku | Rotorua Girls' High School

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

Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School

Stevie Makiha | Rotorua Girls' High School

Shakira Lui | Southern Cross Campus

Selu Ika | Te Haikura a Kiwa

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

Emerging Player of the Tournament

Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College

Player of the Tournament

‍Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School

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Boys Premiership

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

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

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

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

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

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Boys Championship

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

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

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

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

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New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Boys Team

Frank Sio | De La Salle College

Jeremiah Lemana | Kelston Boys' High School

Kaian Olsen | Kelston Boys' High School

Maddax Bernard | Kelston Boys' High School

Noah Hollands | Kelston Boys' High School

Parekaahu Keepa | Kelston Boys' High School

Rico Finau | Kelston Boys' High School

Rilee Higgins | Kelston Boys' High School

Ronley Kolomalu | Kelston Boys' High School

Satali Asolelei-Fretton | Kelston Boys' High School

Mahuru Watene | Shirley Boys' High School

Mosese Tolutau | Southern Cross Campus

Daniel Kali | St. Paul's College

Giovanni Meisake | St. Paul's College

Memphys Luka | St. Paul's College

Siaosi Alatini | St. Paul's College

Siokatame Kali | St. Paul's College

Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Kenny Lafituanai | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Pesamino Elia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Emerging Player of the Tournament

Taimana Kaa-Mackie | Shirley Boys' High School

Player of the Tournament

‍Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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