Old Boys resurrect premier NZ rugby league programme at De La Salle

If you ever needed proof that sport is the ultimate form of reality TV or can produce moments straight out of a Hollywood script, look no further than the stunning NRL debut of Kiwi Te Hurinui Apanui Twidle.

Better known as “Apa” after his uncle, Twidle came off the extended bench for the Parramatta Eels midway through the second half of their Easter Monday clash with the Wests Tigers and scored two tries from his first three touches.

In the space of three minutes, the 21-year-old dragged the Eels back into the contest with his brace. They would ultimately fall 22-20 in golden point, but the result felt secondary to the occasion.

Watching it all from the stands was his mum, Pura Hope, who had booked a last-minute flight from New Zealand, against her son’s advice to be there to witness the moment.

Twidle, from Ngāruawāhia, had called home earlier in the week after being named in the extended squad, telling his mum not to travel as he was unlikely to play.

Hope had long envisioned this moment. She had been saving for the day she got the call, and after initially deciding to stay home, she changed her mind, reasoning that even if he didn’t play, it would still be special to see him and spend time with family.

So, while attending her daughter’s netball tournament in Whangārei on Sunday afternoon, she booked a flight to Sydney for the following morning and landed just hours before kickoff.

As fate would have it, Twidle benefited from one of the NRL’s latest rule changes, which allows teams to name six players on the bench but only use four.

Although the Eels had already used their allocation, a spate of injuries – compounded by a dislocated ankle to fellow Kiwi Bailey Simonsson – opened the door for him to enter the game.

And he made the most of it. In a matter of minutes, he went from an unknown name to one fans will be watching closely in the future.

“I would have been sitting at home kicking myself and crying if I didn’t go,” Hope told the Herald.

“I was looking down and we saw him warming up, and we started getting excited and messaging the family back home. When he got that first try, we were jumping up and down, screaming and hugging each other.

Twidle had already accepted his debut might not come. But after being cleared to take the field as 18th man, he admitted he was a bundle of nerves.

Once he got his hands on the ball, though, everything felt natural. His first touch produced a spectacular finish in the corner, the kind that would earn admiration from even the NRL’s elite wingers.

He wasn’t even sure he had scored, with the try only confirmed after a video review.

Speaking to the Herald, Twidle said the experience has left him hungry for more.

“The last 24 hours have been hectic. I woke up on game day just preparing as if I was playing,” he said. “Once they used the four players, I thought maybe next week, maybe it’s not my day.

“But then one of the staff told me to get up and warm up. I said, ‘you can’t use me’, and he told me I could play. My heart was racing – but once I touched the ball, I settled into it.

“I landed on my shoulder and head, so I was a bit dazed ... the boys were asking, ‘did you get it?’ and I honestly didn’t know. Then we watched the replay and I was like, ‘oh – I got it’.

“I only played 20 minutes, but that’s just the beginning. I want a long career in this game. This was a dream come true – but I want to do it for a long time.”

Eels coach Jason Ryles praised his performance post-match, saying his efforts were outstanding and that he is one to watch for the future, but conceded there are some improvements needed to make him a consistent NRL player.

Remarkably, Twidle was playing out on the wing, a position he’s never played before, having primarily featured at fullback and in the halves.

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Elation turns into emotion

After the match, family and friends performed a haka in Twidle’s honour – a moment Hope said she was incredibly proud to be part of.

There was also an emotional embrace between mother and son, capturing years of sacrifice made in pursuit of this dream.

“It’s not easy for kids from a small town to move away from family,” Hope said.

“He’s been really lucky – when he was in Brisbane, there were some amazing people who looked after him. Not every kid finds that.

“It’s special for everyone who’s been part of his journey. Back home, they’re all so proud.”

Twidle grew up playing for Turangawaewae Rugby League Sports & Cultural Club – which shares the Eels’ blue and gold colours – starting in the under-5s before moving to Brisbane as a teenager, where he attended Marsden State High School, a well-known hotbed for rugby league talent.

After two years there, he joined the Eels system, progressing through the ranks from S.G Ball Cup (under-19s) to Jersey Flegg (under-21s) and reserve grade, earning a fulltime train-and-trial contract for the remainder of the season.

Twidle said his mum has been central to his journey.

“I know everything my mum’s done for me, she’s a big reason why I’ve made it,” Twidle said.

“I moved to Brisbane when I was 16 and that was tough. I’d always be calling my mum and brothers when I was homesick and wanted to come home, but I knew I had to stick it out.

“It was all worth it. That’s why we were so emotional after the game, because of those sacrifices.”

Twidle’s seven-month daughter was also in the stands, and he had her name written on one wrist.

On the other was a tribute to Paul Brown, a mentor of Twidle’s who tragically passed away with cancer the week his daughter was born.

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‘Always stood out’

The Ngāruawāhia community was vocal on social media following the match, praising Twidle’s journey to the NRL.

Turangawaewae Rugby League Club chairman Paki Rawiri said Twidle’s work ethic always set him apart.

“Apa always stood out in every team he played in, but what we still talk about is his work ethic and determination,” Rawiri said.

“If he wasn’t playing, he’d be at the club training by himself.

“It was clear he was focused on his dream and prepared to make the sacrifices needed to get there.”

Even as a young teenager his talent was evident, earning him a spot in the 2020 New Zealand Resident 16s squad.

Rawiri said he and his wife were on their feet at home as his debut moment unfolded.

Twidle is the second player from the club to debut in the NRL in the past 12 months, following Aublix Tawha, who debuted for the Dolphins last year before joining the Brisbane Broncos.

Rawiri said their journeys are inspiring the next generation.

“It is tough seeing our talent leave the region, but as a club, we will always encourage our rangatahi to go chase their dreams.

“Their journeys will inspire our junior players because they can see that boys from their own fields, from their own whānau and community can reach the highest level of the game we all love.”

The Eels held a special jersey presentation for Twidle on Wednesday morning, which Hope stayed in Sydney to attend.

He may have to wait for his next opportunity, however, after sustaining a shoulder injury while scoring his opening try.

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As seen on www.nzherald.co.nz

Penrith centre Casey McLean admits he was tempted to play State of Origin with the NSW Blues but the tug to honour his New Zealand heritage was stronger.

The change in eligibility rules announced by the NRL in February, means the door for McLean has re-opened and he’s allowing himself to dream of what pulling on a Sky Blues jersey might feel like.

“If the phone call arose I wouldn’t turn it down but I’m focusing on my job at Penrith and taking it week by week and not thinking too far ahead,” he said following the Panthers’ overwhelming 50-10 win against four-time premiership winners Melbourne Storm on Good Friday.

“The thought had crossed my mind (turning down Origin initially) that I can’t represent the junior clubs in Penrith. But at the end of the day the decision wasn’t too hard because I wanted to represent my family and where I came from.

“I wanted to put on the black jersey and represent where my parents come from as a way of giving back to them.”

Despite his red-hot form over five rounds of 2026, McLean said he was so far yet to hear from NSW coach Laurie Daley or anyone else senior in the Blues coaching ranks - not even for a ‘touching base’ kind of conversation.

“No, I haven’t had that phone call… representing New Zealand is my first option,” he said.

“I’d hope (I’d be ready to go) if that phone call came but it just comes down what’s right for the Blues. I guess if the opportunity came I would take it with both hands.”

McLean can play either left or right centre, and with the shoulder injury to Bulldogs skipper and incumbent NSW centre Stephen Crichton, the calls will get louder to promote him.

He partnered brother Jesse in the centres for the winning NSW Under 19s side in 2024.

“Coach (Ivan Cleary) is really big on not limiting yourself, or being one-dimensional, and learning to attack and defend on both sides – it’s kind of a good skill to have," McLean said.

Not everyone is in the ‘McLean to Blues’ camp. His Penrith co-captain and reigning NSW halfback Nathan Cleary feels the calls are premature.

“I think that’s still a long way away, but what Casey is doing at the moment is quite incredible. He’s looking more and more dangerous each week and he’s starting to feel that confidence,” Cleary said.

“The fact he’s 19 is mind-blowing.” McLean will turn 20 later this month (April 24).

“It’s a testament to the work he’s putting in,” Cleary said. “He comes to training each week trying to get better.

“The combination they’ve got on that left edge with Blaize (Talagi, five-eighth), Isaiah (Papali’i, second rower), Casey and Milk (winger Tom Jenkins) is very fun to be a part of – the sky is the limit for them.”

The Penrith left edge is completely different from the foursome that won the 2024 NRL premiership just 18 months ago – five-eighth Jarome Luai, back rower Scott Sorensen, centre Paul Alamoti, and winger Sunia Turuva.

Ivan Cleary said after last Friday’s huge win that Talagi, McLean and Jenkins weren’t firing as much as the Panthers coaching staff had hoped in 2025.

“There was a time there last year where we were not winning games… and I remember thinking, ‘it’s probably asking a lot for these guys,” he said.

“But we decided that even while we were losing, we would keep them in and try to ride them through it. I added Isaiah out there this year.”

The left edge foursome has now scored 17 tries in five games, courtesy of Jenkins’ record haul of 12 – the first NRL player to score that many over the opening five rounds.

“I think last year was a really good learning for them, especially when we went well at the end of the year” Cleary said.

“They came through that and now they’re connecting well, and it should be noted their defending well too.”

As seen on nrl.com

Long-standing partner, Pirtek, have extended their partnership with New Zealand Rugby League signing on for another four years. This sees them continue as Principal Partner of the Kiwis and New Zealand Rugby League.

A market leader in fluid transfer solutions, Pirtek has been a loyal and dedicated partner of NZRL for nearly 20 years, since 2008.

Pirtek has stood alongside the Kiwis through many historic moments, including their last World Cup victory in 2008, Tri-Nations triumphs in 2010 and 2014, and their most recent Pacific Championship wins in 2023 and 2025.  

This extension will see Pirtek back the Kiwis through a fifth World Cup later this year, through to the end of 2029.

Pirtek’s support extends into the grassroots space, serving as the primary jersey sponsor of all national junior representative teams. Off the field, the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month initiative recognises and gives back to the volunteers who are the backbone and heroes of our grassroots game.

NZRL CEO Greg Peters says the extension marks a significant milestone in the partnership.

“Pirtek along with their wider franchise network, have been loyal and trusted partners for nearly two decades.

“This is an incredibly exciting period for rugby league in Aotearoa, with the game reaching new heights. We’re proud to have Pirtek remain an important part of our NZRL whānau as we continue to build on this momentum, and we thank them for their ongoing support and commitment to NZRL, the Kiwis, and the growth of the game across Aotearoa.”

Chris Bourke, CEO of Pirtek New Zealand shared, “Our partnership continues to celebrate the dedication, success, and community spirit that defines rugby league in New Zealand.”

“We are very excited at the prospect of continuing our long-standing partnership with NZRL, especially as we enter into a Rugby League World Cup year. Pirtek has been associated with NZRL since 2008, and throughout that time we have seen such a dramatic positive shift for support and participation in rugby league in New Zealand.

“This sport is reaching greater heights thanks to the team at NZRL and the fans that commit to supporting their local and national teams. At Pirtek we hope that our continued support can in some way help to grow rugby league in New Zealand.

“We smile every time we see the Pirtek brand front of jersey, but the partnership extends beyond that with support across grassroots, junior national teams, and importantly the people behind the scenes that are involved in rugby league throughout New Zealand.

“The team at NZRL have been incredible to work with over this extended partnership term, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to the game.

“The Pirtek brand is firmly grounded as a long-term partner with NZRL and this is something we are extremely proud of.”

Finals day kicked off at Puketawhero Park as teams battled for a place in the Grand Finals. Auckland looked dangerous across the grades, qualifying for all four deciders as they aimed to defend their Boys 16s and Girls 18s titles from 2025. Day One's sunshine gave way to cloudy skies and sporadic showers, but conditions didn't slow the action as another day of fast-paced 9s footy took place in Rotorua.

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16s Girls

In the first round of semi-finals for the day, Auckland edged Northland to win 12-6, while Waikato upset hosts Bay of Plenty 12-8 to secure their Grand Final spots.

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Grand Final: Auckland 22 vs Waikato 4

The Auckland side drew first blood shortly after kickoff, capitalising on a Waikato error for Selu Ika to score her first and convert her own try. She crossed again before halftime to give Auckland a 10-0 lead at the break. Waikato responded through a Haven Tihi try, but Auckland proved too strong, adding two more unanswered tries to seal the victory and claim the 16s Girls title for 2026.

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16s Girls Tournament MVP: Maya Tebbutt (Bay of Plenty)

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16s Boys

Auckland and BoP controlled their semi-finals against Taranaki and Manawatū respectively, setting up a Grand Final clash with Auckland looking to defend their 2025 title.

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Grand Final: Auckland 18 vs Bay of Plenty 8

Auckland came out firing to score in the opening minute through Tamatoa Rangi. The hosts responded quickly, with Kailahi Blake crossing to level the contest. Auckland regained the lead before halftime to go into the break ahead 10-4. BoP weren’t able to keep the Aucklanders at bay in the second half, as they extended their lead with back-to-back tries to secure an 18-8 win and the 16s Boys title once again.

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16s Boys Tournament MVP: Devan Hansen (Bay of Plenty)

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18s Girls

‍Auckland and Bay of Plenty continued their strong form from Day 1, defeating Northland and Manawatū in their semi-finals to book Grand Final spots.

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Grand Final: Auckland 14 vs Bay of Plenty 8

The Grand Final would come down to the wire, with Auckland opening the scoring through two tries to take an early lead. BoP responded with one of their own to put points on the board, 8-4 the score at the break. Auckland struck again early in the second half, but BoP stayed within reach with a 17th minute try, narrowing the margin to just six points. BoP would get a final chance at the line in the dying seconds of the game but were unable to convert, crowning Auckland 18s Girls champions for a second consecutive year.

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18s Girls Tournament MVP: Maraea Makiha (Bay of Plenty)

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18s Boys

Southland, considered underdogs, impressed in their semi-final rematch against Northland, claiming a 20-8 win to reach their first-ever National 9s Grand Final in just their second year. Auckland dominated Waikato 30-0 to set up the decider.

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Grand Final: Auckland 12 vs Southland 4

The North Island side came out hard and fast, dotting down two early tries to take control. Southland showed resilience in defence and had a few try-scoring opportunities, but trailed 8-0 at halftime. They broke through in the second half with a try to Nixon Service, but Auckland responded to secure a 12-4 victory. The win completed a clean sweep, with Auckland crowned champions across all four grades in 2026.

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18s Boys Tournament MVP: Justin Peterson (Northland)

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Catch all the tournament action including live-stream replays, highlight reels, and more National District 9s content on our NZRL grassroots platforms here: https://beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots

The 2026 National 9s Tournament kicked off today, opening with a mihi whakatau from Bay of Plenty mana whenua to warmly welcome visiting players, supporters, and staff to Rotorua’s Puketawhero Park for an exciting weekend of footy. Conditions were perfect for 9s, with the sun shining and just enough cloud cover to keep temperatures comfortable for players and spectators. Day 1 delivered thrilling match-ups, with impressive talent on display across both the boys and girls 18s grades, setting the stage for an exciting Day 2 tomorrow.

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18s Girls

The 18s girls showed plenty of speed and tough contact in their opening round of the day. Bay of Plenty defeated Northland 18-8, while Auckland edged Manawatū in a tight contest ending 18-14. In the second round, the host side BoP continued their strong form to dominate Manawatū 34-0, Kaiarihi Puku starring with two tries and ten points to her name. Auckland also secured their second win, narrowly overcoming Northland 8-4. The final round of the day saw a gritty match between front-runners Auckland and BoP. A final-minute try to Betsy Fifita converted by Lavinia Siloata, put the Aucklanders ahead 14-8 to secure top of the table and put BoP in second. Manawatū beat Northland by a try 10-4, to finish third on the table. Day 2 semi-finals at 10:20 am will see Auckland vs Northland and BoP vs Manawatū, to determine which teams will advance to the Grand Finals.

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18s Boys

By the opening round of the 18s boys grade, the sun was beaming and a strong crowd of supporters had gathered on the sidelines. An early sin bin for Taranaki reduced them to eight players for much of the first half, allowing Waikato to build momentum and secure a 14-4 win. Northland claimed a 22-14 victory over Manawatū, while Auckland impressed with a 20-0 win against Southland. The second round brought more excitement, with Northland and Southland producing a high-scoring contest, Northland snatching victory with a last-minute try and conversion to win 24-2. Manawatū held off Taranaki 14-10, while Auckland continued their unbeaten run, defeating Waikato 18-8. In the third and final round for Day 1, teams battled for placings and semi-final spots. Auckland produced a comfortable 26-4 win over Manawatū to finish as section leaders, while Northland beat Waikato 18-8 to finish second on the table, and Southland impressed against Taranaki to win 22-4 and claim the final top four spot. Semi-finals will take place tomorrow at 11:00 am, Auckland vs Waikato and a Northland vs Southland re-match.

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Draw & results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-9s-tournament

Catch all Field 1 games live-streamed tomorrow here: https://pages.nzrl.co.nz/watch-national-district-9s-2026

Keep up with all the tournament action on our NZRL grassroots platforms which can be found here: https://beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots

The 2026 National 9s Tournament kicked off today, opening with a mihi whakatau from Bay of Plenty mana whenua to warmly welcome visiting players, supporters, and staff to Rotorua’s Puketawhero Park for an exciting weekend of footy. Conditions were perfect for 9s, with the sun shining and just enough cloud cover to keep temperatures comfortable for players and spectators. Day 1 delivered thrilling match-ups, with impressive talent on display across both the boys and girls 16s grades, setting the stage for an exciting Day 2 tomorrow.

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16s Girls

The six-team 16s girls grade opened the tournament in the first round of the day, with hosts Bay of Plenty beat Waikato 12-4, led by a double from Maya Tebbutt. Auckland beat Northland 14-4, while Coastline kept Tairāwhiti scoreless in a 12-0 win. Round two at midday saw dominant performances from BoP and Auckland, with the Lakers overpowering Coastline 32-0 and Auckland defeating Tairāwhiti 42-4. Waikato and Northland battled through a tight 18-minute contest, finishing in a 4-4 draw. In the final round of the day, Auckland and BoP both finished top of the table with equal points, after a tough match-up ended in a 14-all stalemate. Waikato comfortably beat Tairāwhiti 24-6 to finish third on the table, and Northland edged Coastline 18-14 to put them in fourth. Semi-finals tomorrow at 9:00 am will see Auckland take on Northland and BoP battle Waikato, to determine the 2026 Grand Finalists.

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16s Boys

The opening round of the 16s boys grade saw Manawatū and Northland play out a hard-fought 10-10 draw. The boys from the BoP defeated Southland 18-8, while Auckland racked up 28 points to Taranaki’s 14, highlighted by a hat-trick from Pharron Maletino and a double to Titan Hill. In round 2, Taranaki secured their first win of the tournament with a convincing 22-6 victory over Southland. BoP and Auckland continued their strong form, recording wins over Manawatū and Northland respectively. Round 3 saw hosts BoP produce a comfortable 26-10 win over Auckland, securing top of the table as both teams booked a semi-final spot. Taranaki narrowly beat Manawātu by a kick 12 points to 10, and a gritty Northland vs Southland match-up ended in favour of the Northlanders 12-8. Day 2 semi-finals are set for BoP vs Manawatu and Auckland vs Taranaki at 9:40 am.

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Draw & results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-9s-tournament

Catch all Field 1 games live-streamed tomorrow, here: https://pages.nzrl.co.nz/watch-national-district-9s-2026

Keep up with all the tournament action on our NZRL grassroots platforms which can be found here: https://beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots

The NZRL National District 9s Tournament will kick off this Saturday 4 April, running through to Sunday 5 April. Here’s all the essential information you need if you're coming down to Puketawhero Park in Rotorua to support, or if you want to catch all the action on the live streams.

Draw and Live-streams

Fields 1 & 2 will be live-streamed on Saturday, and only Field 1 games will be live-streamed on Sunday.

Tournament draw & results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-9s-tournament

Live-streams: https://pages.nzrl.co.nz/watch-national-district-9s-2026

Fields & Parking

The National 9s is heading to Rotorua’s Puketawhero Park for the first time, with games taking place across three fields. Limited carparks are available at the park; the main carpark is accessible by Vaughan Road, plus an overflow carpark on Te Ngae Road. Additional on-street parking is also available on Vaughan Road.

Food Vendors

A variety of delicious food and beverage vendors will be on-site for all whānau and supporters to enjoy. The local Kai Caff Aye will be serving their signature hot meals, including burgers, hangi, hangi pies, and kai moana, including creamy pāua, seafood chowder, and raw fish. Sushi Panda will bring their tasty sushi from Mount Maunganui, and BoP Donuts will have American hot dogs, cold drinks, and mini donuts available. Smashed Strawbs will satisfy your sweet tooth with their real fruit ice cream and smashed strawberries, and D’vine Grindz and Cafe2u have your coffee fix sorted.

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Whether you're supporting from the sidelines or tuning in to the live-streams, we’re set for an exciting weekend of rugby league, showcasing the talents of our rangatahi from across the motu.

Keep up with all the tournament action on our NZRL grassroots platforms that you can find here https://beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots.

The birth of son Charnze-Pati has given Shannon Mato a deeper connection with New Zealand and led the star prop to put her hand up to play for the Kiwi Ferns at IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026.

Mato, who is regarded as one of the best forwards in the game, was born in Whangarei and lived in Upper Hutt before moving to Australia at the age of 13.

Until now she has chosen to play for the Jillaroos, making 10 Test appearances since 2022.

However, the IRL Board’s decision to scrap the tiering for Women’s nations has opened the door for Mato to represent New Zealand and since giving birth to Charnze-Pati last October she has felt the ties to her homeland pulling tighter.

“When I first came over here I didn’t know what rugby league was like so, for myself, Australia was the pinnacle,” Mato said.

“I always said I wanted to be the best, I wanted to be the best in the game in my position and I wanted to make Australia, because to be selected in that they pick from the best. Then when I made Australia I wanted to be consistent and keep playing for Australia.

“But ever since my bub was born, I have said to my brother, ‘I wonder what it would be like to wear the black-and-white jersey?’.”

The 27-year-old, who has signed with the Broncos after missing the 2025 NRLW season while pregnant, was previously unable to represent her native New Zealand after making her international debut for Australia at the last World Cup in England in 2022.

The decision to remove tiering from the Women’s game enables players from Australia, New Zealand and England, who are eligible for another of the three Tier 1 nations, to represent their heritage – or in Mato’s case, her homeland.

The move, which is set to ensure a competitive World Cup as dual eligible stars like Mato switch from the Jillaroos to the Kiwi Ferns or England, means players can now represent any nation for which they qualify through birth or if a parent or grandparent was born in that country.

The only restriction is that they cannot represent more than one country in a calendar year.

“I get a bit emotional because my son is half-Samoan, half-Māori and Kiwi, so I want him to represent both of those if he was to grow up and follow that pathway,” Mato said.

"That is why I want to showcase to him growing up - doing the haka and being part of the environment and knowing that I can do that.

“I have spoken about it with my brother, and I do feel that missing connection. I know that I do play All Stars but when I get there I am like ‘what’s next’. I feel like that is a missing piece to me, especially since my son was born. I think that has been a big purpose for myself.”

Mato has also spoken to Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner about her decision.

The 2024 Nellie Doherty Medal as State of Origin player of the series is among a group of big-name stars who represent their Māori heritage in All Stars but play for Australia, including Olivia Kernick, Kennedy Cherrington, Corban Baxter, Zahara Temera and Rima Butler.

Recent State of Origin eligibility changes also enable them to play for NSW or Queensland, if they qualify, while being able to represent New Zealand.

Mato believes the time is right and the change to the tiering system provide an opportunity to represent her Kiwi culture.

“I would like to represent the Kiwi Ferns in the World Cup this year if that was to arise,” she said.

“If I was given the opportunity I would take it in a heartbeat and I think that is because I am in a different part of my life now.

“I have loved my time in the Jillaroos jersey. It’s a high performance environment and the team is in very good hands under Jess Skinner.

"This decision has come from my heart though, and it is a feeling I can’t ignore.”

Mato said the decision to scrap the tiering was reflective of the many people with mixed backgrounds and would also lead to more competitive women’s matches at international level.

“I love Australia for what it has done for me and my family, but back then there wasn’t really a pathway to play for the Kiwi Ferns so that wasn’t really an option for me growing up here in Australia,” she said.

“Now that it has opened up, I think everyone is on their journey to feel a connection back to home.

“It’s also good for the footy, knowing that I could return home in a different way. I definitely would take the opportunity if that was on the table for myself.”

As seen on nrl.com

Newcastle Knights and Queensland Maroons fullback and five-eighth Kalyn Ponga, has officially pledged his international allegiance to New Zealand, after unanimous approval by the IRL Board.  

This follows the recent modernisation of State of Origin eligibility rules, which now allow Ponga to change allegiance from Australia to New Zealand, both Tier 1 nations, while still remaining eligible to represent Queensland.

A proud Māori who has represented the Māori All Stars on three occasions, Ponga was born in Australia but spent years of his childhood in Palmerston North, before moving back across the Tasman.  

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"While I was born in Australia, my connection to New Zealand runs deep through every generation of my family. My father, Andre Ponga, was born in Palmerston North, and my mother, Adine Ponga, was born in Wellington. All four of my grandparents were also born in New Zealand. My roots, my whakapapa, and my identity are firmly grounded in this country and its people," Ponga wrote in his application to the IRL.  

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"I am immensely proud of my Māori heritage, and that pride has only grown stronger with each passing year. I have had the privilege of representing the Māori All Stars on three occasions, and those experiences have only deepened my connection to New Zealand rugby league and to the broader Māori community.”

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New Zealand Rugby League GM of Football and High Performance Motu Tony commented, “Kalyn is very proud of his Māori heritage and connection to New Zealand. This decision reflects his strong desire to represent his whānau and whakapapa on the international stage.  

“Kalyn is a highly talented player and a great addition to our existing player pool, and we’re thrilled he’s chosen to align his international future with the Kiwis.  

“Like all players he’ll go through the usual selection process, but we’re excited to potentially see him in the Kiwis jersey as we build towards the World Cup.”

We’re less than one month out from the return of the NZRL National District 9s for 2026, marking the fifth year of this exciting and fast-paced tournament.

This year, the National 9s heads to Rotorua for the first time, taking place at Puketawhero Park over the Easter weekend, from Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 April.

Close to 30 teams across the four grades (16s Boys, 16s Girls, 18s Boys, and 18s Girls) will go head-to-head over two days to crown the best rangatahi 9s teams in the country.

Nine Districts from across Aotearoa will be represented, including Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Coastline, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne Tairāwhiti, Taranaki, Manawatū, and Southland.  

In 2025, Manawatū took out the 16s Girls title, while Bay of Plenty were crowned champions in the 18s Boys grade. Auckland will look to defend their titles in the 16s Boys and 18s Girls grades.

Several National 9s alumni have gone on to make successful NRL debuts and careers, including the Warriors’ Leka Halasima, who represented Auckland, and teammate Tanner Stowers-Smith, who featured for Canterbury.

Similarly, in the NRLW, Wellington sisters Alexis and Trinity Tauaneai both won Tournament MVP awards in 2022 and 2023, with Alexis now a Kiwi Fern and Bulldogs mainstay, and Trinity playing for the Dragons.

Fields 1 and 2 are set to be live-streamed on Saturday 4, and all major games on Field 1 will be live-streamed on Sunday 5.

Keep an eye on our NZRL Grassroots social media channels for more tournament information and details to be released in the coming weeks.  

The NZRL Board announces that Greg Peters has informed the board of his intention to step down from his position as CEO, concluding an eight-year tenure marked by transformation and impact.

Since his appointment in 2018, Greg has led the organisation through some initially very turbulent times into a period of significant growth overseeing a 30% increase in revenue; investment into the grassroots game – doubling player numbers from 22,000 to 45,000. Greg has also overseen the reestablishment of the international game with regular test matches for both the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns in New Zealand – both teams have equivalent programmes and pay equity for Kiwi Fern athletes.

NZRL Chair, Justin Leydesdorff, says Greg was instrumental in establishing the Pacific Championship competition as well as constitutional changes which saw Aotearoa New Zealand Māori Rugby League becoming a voting member of NZRL, with a permanent Board seat.

“On behalf of the board and our members, I want to acknowledge and thank Greg for his outstanding contribution to the game,” says Justin.

“We have been extremely fortunate to have had one of the country’s top sports administrators lead the sport over eight years. Greg successfully combined his love for the grassroots game with the commercial complexities of running an NSO and leaves the code significantly better off than when he took over,” he says.

Reflecting on his tenure, Greg Peters says it has been an honour and privilege to lead NZRL.

“I’m incredibly proud of what my small and very committed team has achieved over the past few years. And I am in awe of, and want to pay tribute to, the thousands of people who toil at the grassroots of the game and drive the growth and development week in week out with very scarce resources” says Greg.

“NZ Rugby League will always have a big place in my heart and I look forward to watching the game reach new heights in future years,” he says.

The Board is in the early stages of commencing a process to recruit a successor and NZRL remains firmly focused on delivering its strategic priorities and serving its community and stakeholders. Greg has agreed to continue support the Board during this period of transition.

The NRL is oozing with talent across the board and many of them hail from New Zealand, from small settlements in the Far North to metropolitan cities such as Auckland.

We know many of the established names, but with the trials complete, we got the chance to see many youngsters who are on the cusp of making their NRL debuts.

The Herald looks at 17 New Zealand-born or raised players who impressed during pre-season and could make the step up to the NRL.

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1. Mason Barber – North Queensland Cowboys

Age: 19. School: Keebra Park State High School (Qld).

After missing all of 2025, the kid from Hokianga is primed to stamp his mark by showcasing electric footwork and blistering speed, with the ability to cover all back five positions. As the Cowboys are not flush with depth in the backs it might not be long before he’s given an opportunity. He scored the game-clinching try against the Bulldogs in the pre-season, which highlighted his incredible footwork.

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2. Siale Faeamani – Gold Coast Titans

Age: 21. School: St Peter’s College.

The 21-year-old has emerged as a bolter after arriving on the Gold Coast via the Warriors and most recently the Panthers. Since then, he’s impressed new coach Josh Hannay, who has overhauled the squad, and Faeamani is destined to start in their season opener against the Sharks.

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3. Caelys-Paul Putoko – New Zealand Warriors

Age: 19. School: Hamilton Boys’ High School.

A player who was chased by numerous Super Rugby franchises before settling back home at the Warriors after a stint with the Titans. Putoko was part of the Cook Islands squad that qualified for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Still room for improvement, but he does already look like a star of the future.

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4. Dean Tauaa – South Sydney Rabbitohs

Age: 18. School: Mabel Park State High School (Qld).

If you ever wanted to see a centre with the speed of a wing and the ability to carry like a middle forward then Tauaa is your man. He’s been dominating the SG Ball (Under-19s) for the Rabbitohs, who have locked him down long term. While he won’t join the NRL squad for a couple more years, if he keeps up his current vein of form, that debut could come sooner rather than later.

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5. Setu Tu – St George Illawarra Dragons

Age: 27. School: Ōtāhuhu College.

On the back of multiple impressive seasons with the Warriors’ reserves, where he managed 44 tries in 67 appearances, Tu made the move to Sydney and had an immediate impact. Initially signed to a development contract, coach Shane Flannagan said he had been impressed with Tu’s energy and evasiveness. Tu has been named to make his long-awaited debut in Las Vegas this weekend.

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6. Jett Cleary – New Zealand Warriors

Age: 20. School: St Dominic’s College (NSW).

It would be silly not to include the brother of Panthers star Nathan Cleary and the son of former Warriors player and coach Ivan Cleary. Andrew Webster has stressed there is no need to rush the youngest Cleary, but with plenty of potential changes on the horizon, that debut could happen sooner rather than later. While it’s unlikely he will play for the Kiwis, he was born in Auckland, so New Zealand might as well claim him while we can.

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7. David Bryenton – Canterbury Bulldogs

Age: 18. School: Keebra Park State High School (Qld).

The Auckland teen has one of the cooler stories in making it to the Bulldogs after a social media message led to him joining the illustrious Keebra Park State High School before being chased by several NRL clubs, eventually landing with the Doggies. While fullback is his natural position, he has been wearing the No 7 jersey for the SG Ball (Under-19s) side through the opening rounds. An NRL debut is a long shot in 2026, but he’s already highly regarded. Last year he was the recipient of the Peter Sterling Medal, which is awarded to the best schoolboy player in Australia and has been won by the likes of Payne Hass and Tom Dearden.

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8. Salesi Ataata – South Sydney Rabbitohs

Age: 23. School: Pakūranga College.

A big, powerful front rower with great footwork and a strong leg drive. After limited chances in New Zealand, he made the move to Sydney, where he began in the Cronulla Sharks’ system before finding a home with the Bunnies. His breakout form for the reserves side has led to him being added to the Rabbitohs’ supplementary list for the 2026 season.

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9. John Fineanganofo – Dolphins

Age: 20. School: Auckland Grammar.

A player that has emerged as an early season bolter is the 20-year-old from Auckland Grammar, being he’s the only specialist fit hooker at the Dolphins on the eve of the NRL season. The Dolphins do have players capable of filling the void, but Fineanganofo’s undergone a steady apprenticeship in the Queensland Cup and early indications say he’s ready to go. He is the younger brother of Hurricanes winger Fehi Fineanganofo.

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10. Elijah Rasmussen – Dolphins

Age: 21. School: Westlake Boys’ High School.

The only non-New Zealand-born player to feature on this list, as he spent his early years in England while his dad, Dale Rasmussen, played professional rugby. A tall, powerful middle forward, he attended Westlake Boys’ and was later scouted after playing in a Māori tournament in Rotorua. Was previously part of the Blues’ Under-18s squad.

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11. Mason Kira – North Queensland Cowboys

Age: 20. School: Mountain Creek State High School (Qld).

New Zealand-born but raised in Queensland, Kira has been on the cusp of a debut for the past couple of years but has been held back by injuries. Has already represented the Queensland U19s team and can play in the middle or second-row.

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12. Francis Manuleleua – Newcastle Knights

Age: 21. School: King’s College.

The former King’s College First XV captain has earned a promotion to the Knights’ top 30 squad after a standout New South Wales Cup campaign, where he received the players’ player award. Has been labelled as a powerful ball runner with a good offload. With plenty of youth in the club’s forward pack, expect that opportunity to eventuate in 2026.

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13. Alekolasimi Jones – Canterbury Bulldogs

Age: 21. School: St Paul’s College.

A strong, powerful forward who has worked his way through the ranks of the Bulldogs and now sits on the cusp of a debut. Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould has labelled him as the next breakout forward at the club, which says something about the talent and potential he possesses. He is part of the Doggies’ extended squad in Las Vegas.

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14. Makaia Tafua – New Zealand Warriors

Age: 21. School: Shirley Boys’ High School.

It has been some time since the Warriors have had a New Zealand-born hooker leading the side, but the 21-year-old could be that person. Has plenty of speed coming out of the ruck and a strong kicking game to boot. He is part of a promising South Island core at the Warriors, including Jason Salalilo and Bishop Neal.

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15. Toby Crosby – Panthers

Age: 22. School: St Patrick’s College Silverstream.

If there was a player who is on a massive upward trajectory, then don’t look past Toby Crosby, a player the Warriors might regret letting go. A player with a union background, the 22-year-old took to league like water off a duck’s back with his work ethic and defence being big highlights.

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16. Zac Garton – Dolphins

Age: 19. School: Caloundra State High School (Qld).

Has worked his way through the ranks at the Dolphins, starting with the Under-6s at Redcliffe. Was born in Kaitāia but relocated to Australia at a young age. Another player who featured for the Queensland U19 team and the Australian Schoolboys. An edge back-rower who brings plenty of size and footwork.

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17. Kayliss Fatialofa – New Zealand Warriors

Age: 21. School: De La Salle College.

The 21-year-old looks destined to be the next graduate from the Warriors’ pathways system on the back of an impressive NSW Cup, where he was named in the team of the year. Across the season, he averaged 89m and 27 tackles per game, which are impressive numbers for an edge forward. Nearly made the move to the Panthers but backflipped during the 10-day cooling period, but has the skills to become a regular in first grade.

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As seen on nzherald.co.nz