STALWART SMALLRIDGE WHISTLES HUMBLE TUNE AFTER 25 YEARS
December 15, 2021
as seen on canterburyrugbyleague.co.nz
Amid the myriad gongs handed out for excellence in the current calendar year at the recent 2021 Canterbury Rugby League awards, one unassuming individual received special recognition for quarter of a century of high standards and commitment to our game.
Gary Smallridge cut his teeth in the CRL premier refereeing ranks 25 years ago, dedicating close to half of his life to one of the most demanding and important (and often maligned and thankless) jobs in rugby league.
“I was somewhat surprised by the award as I have been plodding along all these years and nothing’s been said,” Smallridge says of his CRL Special Acknowledgement Award.
“I try and keep under the radar by not going to these types of things – the only other awards night I’ve attended was in Canterbury Rugby League’s centenary year. I would love to see others recognised as well, as 10 years is a milestone – and the average career length – while Keith Bull recently sneaked away after being involved in the game for 50 years.”
The 59-year-old got his start in refereeing in one of Australia’s rugby league heartlands. Smallridge takes up the story of how he first picked up the whistle:
“I was playing lower grades in Brisbane when a guy I worked with talked to me about trying out when he found out I refereed touch football. I went along and they had over 100 referees turn up on a Tuesday training.
“I had to pass a written exam and then-current premiership referee Eddie Ward asked me five oral questions and I got my ticket. I was refereeing 13- and 14-year-old grades and touch judging premier football in the weekends. I did a couple of seasons and then returned to NZ in 1995 and decided to continue.
“I believe that couple of seasons in Brisbane gave me a good grounding. When I turned up in Christchurch they saw some potential in me, and I was fast-tracked doing my first premier grade in ‘96. Looking back, I think I’d have struggled to make premiers in Brisbane due to the numbers.”
When asked how he has maintained the motivation to continue refereeing at this level for so long, Smallridge provides an answer straight out of the rugby league cliché handbook, echoing countless others whose craving for a Saturday afternoon footy fix bubbles to the surface as each winter rolls around.
“You’re a long time retired,” he says.
“I still love the game and having the best seat in the house helps. Unfortunately, there can be a bit of politics involved around appointments and rankings, and I nearly gave it away when it started affecting family and friends.
“But I’ve tried to take the attitude of just getting on with the job I’ve been given. That has helped, but at semi-final time you always get the urge to go all the way.
“Watching teams and individuals develop over the years has been one of the best parts of refereeing in this competition for so long. I loved watching the likes of Riccarton, Kaiapoi and Papanui winning their premierships over the regular big guns, while also seeing the careers of local players like Lewis Brown and Corey Lawrie develop.
“The challenging part is always going to come back to how you deal with individuals questioning your integrity. I’ve always been able to put it down to my passion for the game at the time; unfortunately there are some who can take (criticism) a step too far, but it’s also a great feeling when a spectator acknowledges that you handled a hard game well.”
Smallridge has been something of a refereeing bridesmaid during his Canterbury Rugby League tenure, but he has controlled three premier Grand Finals – the first back in 2002, which saw Riccarton Knights claim their maiden title with a 54-14 rout of Linwood Keas.
Underlining his consistency and reliability over a long period, Smallridge’s most recent appointment to the biggest game on the CRL calendar came just four months ago, handed the duties for the 2021 Grand Final at Ngā Puna Wai. His cool-headed temperament in a pressure-cooker environment contributed to a match fought on a knife’s edge between archrivals Hornby Panthers and Linwood Keas being one of the great modern deciders.
“I’ve always started a season with the goal of a Grand Final and to do three is a highlight, however my record for Gore Cup finals – usually the second-best ref – will probably never be broken.
“I believe my style of reffing has led to me being a consistent local referee, but I didn’t have that edge required to go the extra step up. In saying that, I have had a few trips around the country and games that stand out would be Russia playing Canterbury (in 2004) and Canterbury versus Wellington for the 100-year anniversary.
“Another was Shirley and Woolston in the nineties when it was Black Power versus Mongrel Mob played out at Eaton Field at Paparua Prison, while for a different reason a Kaiapoi versus Sydenham match where I sent all 26 players off was particularly memorable.”
Recruiting and retaining referees remains one of the greatest challenges in grassroots rugby league. For every Gary Smallridge, there are dozens who walk away from the whistle for one reason or another.
But the commitment and passion of a dedicated few ensures the refereeing vocation – and consequently the game – continues to subsist, if only barely.
“The game in Canterbury has been so lucky to have the likes of the Arneson brothers and Lightfoot family who kept the Referees Association going without too much bother,” Smallridge explains.
“There have always been the same issues in rugby league, but it should be about how we make the game better – not about what people can get out of the game. The referees have lost so much experience over the last few years with retirements and people walking away, feeling aggrieved in some way.
“We are now struggling to provide coverage for every game even though there is now a clear pathway to higher honours. Instead of having elections we are now pleading for someone to step up into the leadership roles.”
Smallridge has a simple yet poignant message for anyone contemplating getting involved in refereeing:
“Go down to a kid’s game and tell me if they deserve an adult to put in the time to support them while they are enjoying themselves.
“If you want to stay or become involved in sport then being a match official is certainly a good place to start. I never went anywhere in my own league career but have now been involved in Grand Finals and representative games through refereeing.”
Former NRL stars such as Henry Perenara and Luke Patten have made the shift to the match official ranks at the elite level in recent times.
Meanwhile, Halswell premiership-winning player and coach Darrell Coad is one of the latest additions to the CRL refereeing ranks – a trend Smallridge believes could be an invaluable stream for grassroots footy to tap into.
“It’s the best thing that can happen in our game,” Smallridge asserts.
“Knowledge about what players are thinking or going through during matches allows a better feel for the game. A sin-bin or send-off can cost a team dearly but a quiet word in the ear of a player on the edge from someone who has been there can have a calming effect.
“(The late) Darryl Hawker is one who is missed in the referee ranks – and the game in general – as he had performed of every role that the game had to offer and would share that knowledge to everyone involved.”
New Zealand Rugby League and its affiliates have increasingly put measures in place to make the game a safer and more hospitable environment for match officials.
The message that referees are human and make errors and analyse their own performance to the extent any player does cannot be understated.
“If a referee can finish a game and they are not talking about him then he’s done a good job,” Smallridge says.
“I’ve probably been lucky in my career that I can’t think of any incidents where I have been intimidated or threatened to the extent that I have thought about giving it away, but unfortunately too many volunteer referees have.
“If a referee is out there trying his best, then our mistakes shouldn’t cost a team a game. I’ve lost count of the times when I checked the 10 metres outside me and missed the knock-on in the play-the-ball. It’s not a nice feeling but it’s a common mistake.
“It is good to see that we are trying to look after match officials in all sports but again we need to look at ourselves as a society when it comes to violence and intimidation for perceived mistakes during a game.
“Twenty-five years has flown by and I have enjoyed every minute, but I don’t think I’ve ever had the perfect game. No one is harder on a referee than himself and so it is always good to get assessed or graded by someone who knows the game. Some of my best gradings though were with people who know the game – Chris Baxter, ‘Jigsy’ (Brent Ringdahl), Frank Endacott – over a beer in the clubrooms after a game. Knowing what players and coaches go through certainly helped my game but they, and spectators, probably need to know what we go through as well.”
So how much longer can we expect to see Smallridge blowing time on, marshalling the 10 metres and pointing to the spot after a tryscoring movement at Leslie Park, Murphy Park, Linwood Park and Ngā Puna Wai?
“I know I’m on my last legs – well, knees actually – and have had a retirement plan in action for a while now, but I’m still enjoying it.
“I’ve been saying ‘one last year’ for the last 10 but wanted to lose my spot to someone coming up the ranks, so they must fight for it – unfortunately they keep retiring before me! I retired from representative football years ago and although I want to see others develop there is nothing better than being asked to control a representative fixture still, so I keep doing them as well if appointed.
“I’m 60 in September next year, so if the goal is to do premiers at 60 then that means two more seasons – but is that good for the game?”
Reflecting on the past 25 years, Smallridge takes the opportunity to thank the myriad people who have aided his Canterbury Rugby League refereeing odyssey.
“Firstly, there’s Jacquoi (Smallridge), who at 10 years old followed me around to games and trainings as I was a solo father for a while – it would be all quiet forming a scrum or something and I would hear ‘come on, Gary’.
“Also the Arneson and Baxter brothers, the Lightfoot family, Jim Stokes, Neville Pritchard, Steve Toms, Steve Martin, Jason Wilson and the many more CRLRA members; current and former CRL employees over the years, especially Duane Fyfe and Tracy Fleet; and the touch judges, match managers and ball boys who have assisted me during every game.
“A special and everlasting thanks to the Blackler family, especially Ken, who as a former referee was a great and loyal supporter, trainer and assessor to me while also giving his daughter’s hand in marriage to me.
“And Sharyn – we met after a league game and you have supported me through the last 22 years of my career. Sorry about the lawns and the housekeeping during the winter but I promise there’s not long to go now!
“Lastly thanks to all involved in the great game of rugby league – it’s been an honour and a privilege to be involved. Thank you one and all.”
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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.
Bowl final (5th/6th) | Avondale College 12 vs Kelston Girls' High School 8
16s Girls Tournament Team
1 Kimora-Lee Lisone | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
2 Leonie Bradbrooke | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
3 Tylah Fa'alili | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
4 Elisa Pasene | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
5 Alyssa-Mei Leauga | Avondale College
6 Fabianni Napara | Hamilton Girls' High School
7 Sofia Tovio-Smith | Hamilton Girls' High School
8 Stevie-Lea Peri | Te Wharekura o te Kaokaoroa o Pātetere
9 Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College
10 Briarley McGee | Kelston Girls' College
11 Choicey Kuli | Kelston Girls' College
12 Jovana Paselio | Manurewa High School
13 Caitlyn Pohahau | McAuley High School
14 Keiti Tupou | McAuley High School
15 Piper Thompson | Rotorua Girls' High School
16 Presley McGarvey | Rotorua Girls' High School
17 Asaiah Kinghazel | Rotorua Girls' High School
18 Francella Nafoi-Seumalo | Tauranga Girls' College
New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Girls Team
Casey Toese-Misa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Caszius Fatialofa | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Jada-Breeze Gray | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Lala Vaea | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Sari Iefata | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Suraya Kingi | Auckland Girls' Grammar School
Akeliana-Faith Leauga | Avondale College
Khaidyn-Bre Teau | Avondale College
Ava-Lea Maxwell-Ogilvy | Avonside Girls' High School
Metua Cranwell | Avonside Girls' High School
Tiahomoana Morgan | Avonside Girls' High School
Ryteous Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College
Alaina Lauitiiti | McAuley High School
Kaiarihi Puku | Rotorua Girls' High School
Kianah-Jade Cullen-Te Kawa | Rotorua Girls' High School
Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School
Stevie Makiha | Rotorua Girls' High School
Shakira Lui | Southern Cross Campus
Selu Ika | Te Haikura a Kiwa
Maya Tebbutt | Tokoroa High School/St. Peter's Cambridge
Emerging Player of the Tournament
Lynneera Tutaia | Kelston Girls' College
Player of the Tournament
Revé Ngaheu | Rotorua Girls' High School
Boys Premiership
In the early morning Premiership semi-finals, Kelston made light work of Southern Cross, finishing 54-0 winners to book their place in the Grand Final and earn the chance to defend their title.
The St. Paul’s and St. Thomas match-up was a much tighter battle, with plenty of support lining the sidelines as both teams fought for a spot in the decider. St. Paul’s opened the scoring before St. Thomas hit back with a try and successful conversion to take a 6-4 lead into half-time. St. Paul’s quickly responded after the break to reclaim the lead 10-6 setting up an intense back-and-forth contest. Both sides put their bodies on the line in a fierce defensive battle, repeatedly denying each other opportunities to break away. With the game in the balance, St. Thomas produced a dramatic finish on the hooter, with Hemiata Togia crossing for a miracle try near the sticks, successfully kicked by Pesamino Elia to seal the win and send St. Thomas through to the Grand Final.
Grand Final | Kelston Boys' High School 30 vs St. Thomas of Canterbury College 6
Entering the Grand Final undefeated, Kelston were first on the scoreboard, with fullback Kaian Olsen crossing early to score what would be his first try of the day. The remainder of the first half was a hard-fought battle, with the Cantabrians finding their way across the line in the 15th minute courtesy of hooker Nikora Mata’afa. Kelston quickly responded with a try of their own before the break, Olsen grabbing his second to give the West Auckland school a 12-6 lead at half-time. Just five minutes into the second half Kelston extended their lead, sparking an onslaught of tries that saw the defending champions pull away and ultimately seal the Premiership title for a second consecutive year, 30-6. Noah Hollands was successful off the tee for the winners, kicking five from five.
Bowl final (5th/6th) | De La Salle College 34 vs Manurewa High School 6
Boys Championship
Grand Final | Shirley Boys' High School 18 vs New Plymouth Boys' High School 12
The Taranaki side took control early in the final, scoring two tries while keeping Shirley Boys’ scoreless to take an 8-0 lead into half-time. They continued their scoring momentum after the break, adding another try to extend their advantage to 12-0. But Christchurch's Shirley Boys’ were not going down without a fight, hitting back with their first try of the game before successfully converting to close the gap. The try sparked a remarkable comeback, with Shirley Boys’ finding their rhythm and crossing again before adding the conversion to level the scores at 12-all. With momentum firmly on their side, they completed the turnaround with another try to seal the win, Mahuru Watene finishing the match with a double.
Plate final (17th/18th) | Te Kura o Manutūkē Tairawhiti 22 vs Hobsonville Point Secondary School (composite Lynfield) 0
Bowl final (9th/10th) | Tokoroa High School vs Tamaki College
New Zealand Secondary Schools 18s Boys Team
Frank Sio | De La Salle College
Jeremiah Lemana | Kelston Boys' High School
Kaian Olsen | Kelston Boys' High School
Maddax Bernard | Kelston Boys' High School
Noah Hollands | Kelston Boys' High School
Parekahu Keepa | Kelston Boys' High School
Rico Finau | Kelston Boys' High School
Rilee Higgins | Kelston Boys' High School
Ronley Kolomalu | Kelston Boys' High School
Satali Asoleilei-Fretton | Kelston Boys' High School
Mahuru Watene | Shirley Boys' High School
Mosese Tolutau | Southern Cross Campus
Daniel Kali | St. Paul's College
Giovanni Meisake | St. Paul's College
Memphys Luka | St. Paul's College
Siaosi Alatini | St. Paul's College
Siokatame Kali | St. Paul's College
Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College
Kenny Lafituanai | St. Thomas of Canterbury College
Pesamino Elia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College
Emerging Player of the Tournament
Taimana Kaa-Mackie | Shirley Boys' High School
Player of the Tournament
Hemiata Togia | St. Thomas of Canterbury College
See all results www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl
Watch all Grand Finals & Field 1 match replays across all three days on YouTube
Keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages
NZSS Girls & Championship Grand Finals locked in, Premiership semis confirmed
Boys Premiership
Kelston continued their dominance on Day 2, finishing Pool A play undefeated to secure the first semi-final spot. The second spot was decided in the final round of the day, with St. Thomas and De La Salle going head-to-head for a place in the final four. The Cantabrians ultimately prevailed after a tough 40 minutes, with Pesamino Elia kicking the match-winning two-points to secure a victory for St. Thomas.
Over in Pool B, St. Paul’s topped the standings after losing to Rotorua Boys’ in the opening round, before bouncing back to put 50 unanswered points on Manurewa to finish the day strongly. Southern Cross secured second place after also recording three wins from four games, with today's victories over Manurewa and Whangārei helping them book their place in the semi-finals.
Semi-finals will take place tomorrow morning to determine who will advance to the 2026 Boys Premiership Grand Finals.
Semi-Final 1 9:00 am | Kelston Boys' High School vs Southern Cross Campus
Semi-Final 2 9:00 am | St. Paul's College vs St. Thomas of Canterbury College
3rd/4th final 1:00 pm
Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 2:20 pm
Girls Championship
Heading straight into quarter-finals from the start of the day, the eight remaining girls title contenders battled for a place in the semi-finals, with Auckland Girls’, Rotorua Girls’, Southern Cross, and Avonside Girls’ all securing wins in their respective match-ups. In the first semi-final, reigning champions Auckland Girls’ continued their unbeaten run with a convincing 32-10 victory over Christchurch’s Avonside, securing a place in the Grand Final for the fourth consecutive year. In the second semi-final, 2025 grand finalists Rotorua Girls’ also booked their return to the decider, comfortably overcoming Southern Cross 36-6.
3rd/4th final 1:00 pm | Southern Cross Campus vs Avonside Girls' High School
Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 1:10 pm | Auckland Girl's Grammar School vs Rotorua Girls High School
Boys Championship
Similarly in the Boys Championship, the top eight teams after Day 1 from the 20-team grade advanced directly to the quarter-finals, with Christchurch’s Shirley Boys’, New Plymouth Boys’, Botany Downs, and King’s all securing wins in their quarters. In the first semi-final, Shirley Boys’ proved too strong for King’s, running out 28-14 winners. The second semi-final delivered a tense battle between New Plymouth Boys’ and Botany Downs, with New Plymouth edging ahead 12-6 after Jermaine Mattock crossed for the match-winning try.
3rd/4th final 12:00 pm | King's College vs Botany Downs Secondary College
Grand Final (live on Sky Sport) 12:00 pm | Shirley Boys' High School vs New Plymouth Boy's High School
See all results & draws: www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl
Watch all Grand Finals & Field 1 matches live on Sky Sport and keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages.
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Remebering Kiwi Fern #75, Fuarosa 'Fozzy' Time
We are deeply saddened to mourn the passing of Kiwi Fern #75, Fuarosa ‘Fozzy’ Time.
Hailing from Wellington’s Randwick Kingfishers, Fuarosa was a talented rugby league, rugby union and touch player who represented a number of teams and clubs across Aotearoa and later Australia.
Fuarosa will be forever remembered as a trailblazer who made history on her Kiwi Ferns debut at the 2003 Rugby League World Cup. She scored six tries against Tokelau in that match, a record that still stands today as the most tries scored n a women’s Rugby League World Cup match, as well as the most by a debutant.
We extend our deepest condolences to Fozzy’s whānau and friends, and to all those who had the privilege of playing alongside her and knowing her.
Moe mai rā, Fozzy.
Day one delivers as NZSS 2026 gets underway
The 2026 NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament (NZSS) got underway at Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park today, with 43 teams from schools across the motu coming together for three days of competition. Staff, whānau and supporters were also out in force to back the competing rangatahi, who took to the field twice throughout the day to represent their schools. Fine but windy conditions greeted teams in the morning before showers rolled in during the afternoon, adding another challenge as the tournament got underway.
Boys Premiership
The 2026 Boys Premiership grade welcomed Dilworth School, the champions of the 2025 Boys Championship, and Whangārei Boys’ High School, recent winners of the Rugby League Northland Adam Blair High School Competition.
In Pool A, reigning champions Kelston Boys’ High School opened their campaign with convincing wins over De La Salle College and Mt. Albert Grammar School to finish the day at the top of the table. 2023-2024 winners St. Thomas of Canterbury College also went unbeaten, overcoming Mt. Albert and newcomers Dilworth, while De La Salle rounded out the top three.
Over in Pool B, Manurewa High School dominated their opening matches against Whangārei Boys’ and Rotorua Boys’ High School to lead the section. Auckland champions St. Paul’s College follow in second by points differential, also undefeated, and in third is Southern Cross Campus who recorded a win and a loss.
Pool A standings:
- Kelston Boys' High School
- St. Thomas of Canterbury College
- De La Salle College
- Dilworth School
- Mt. Albert Grammar School
Pool B standings:
- Manurewa High School
- St. Paul's College
- Southern Cross Campus
- Whangārei Boys’ High School
- Rotorua Boy's High School
Girls Championship
In the biggest-ever girls’ grade in NZSS history, the 13 competing teams gave spectators a showcase of physical, fast-paced and exciting footy, as teams put on strong displays throughout the day. At the end of Day 1, four teams remained undefeated, with reigning champions Auckland Girls’ Grammar School sitting ahead of the pack. They finished the day with 62 points for and just six against after dominant performances against Kelston Girls’ High School and Tokoroa High School. 2025 Grand Finalists Rotorua Girls’ High School followed closely in second, also undefeated but trailing by just eight points (F/A), while South Auckland’s McAuley High School rounded out the top three.
Top 5 standings:
- Auckland Girls' Grammar School
- Rotorua Girls High School
- McAuley High School
- Avonside Girls' School
- Manurewa High School
Boys Championship
The biggest tournament grade, the 20-team Championship proved highly competitive, with seven teams finishing the day with two wins from two, leaving points differential to determine the standings. Leading the way are Christchurch’s Shirley Boys’ who recorded back-to-back 40-0 victories over Papakura High School and Te Kōpuku High School to sit top of the table without conceding a single point. Following closely behind are New Plymouth Boys’ High School, Whangaparāoa College, Westlake Boys’ High School and new entrants King’s College, all also finishing the day unbeaten.
Top 5 standings:
- Shirley Boys' High School
- New Plymouth Boys' High School
- Whangaparāoa College
- Westlake Boys High School
- King's College (Auckland)
The morning of Day 2 will see the remaining pool matches in the Boys’ Premiership while the Boys and Girls Championships head straight into quarter-finals, before semi-finals take place across all three grades in the afternoon to determine Sunday’s Grand Finalists.
See all results & draws: www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl
Watch Field 1 live on Sky Sport and keep up with all the action on NZRL's grassroots social pages.
Tipene crowned inaugural winners of the U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals
The three-day tournament proved a successful first chapter for the NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals. Emerging players showcased their skills and players newer to the game gained valuable game time. Rangatahi had the opportunity to represent their schools, build connections with their teammates, and enjoy the game alongside their schoolmates.
Grand Final: Tipene St. Stephen's School 16 vs Manurewa High School 14
Manurewa took an early lead, with a double from Czezar Panapa and a try to Marley Roache putting them 14-0 ahead. Not out of the fight, Tipene hit back early in the second half, scoring two tries through Tapu Teepa and Strickland Cecil-Mahani to close the gap. However, a third try to Jah Sean Albrett, combined with determined defence to keep Manurewa at bay, secured Tipene the victory and the 2026 Cup.
In the remaining placings, St. Paul’s bested Kelston to claim third, while Tokoroa finished fifth to round out the top five.
Final standings:
1. Tipene St. Stephen's School - Auckland
2. Manurewa High School - Auckland
3. St. Paul's College - Auckland
4. Kelston Boys' High School - Auckland
5. Tokoroa High School - Tokoroa, Waikato
6. Southern Cross Campus - Auckland
7. Te Haikura a Kiwa (James Cook) - Auckland
8. Hamilton Boys' High School - Hamilton, Waikato
9. Trident High School - Whakatāne, Bay of Plenty
10. Tamaki College - Auckland
11. Te Kopuku High School (Mahaukura) - Hamilton, Waikato
12. St. Patrick's College Silverstream - Upper Hutt, Wellington
13. Papakura High School - Auckland
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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.
U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals: Finalists decided
On Day 2 of the inaugural NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals, the 13 competing schools took to the field for quarter-final and semi-final match-ups, with Grand Final berths on the line.
Manurewa secured the first spot in the 2026 Grand Final after defeating Hamilton Boys’ 38-4 in the opening round, before producing another impressive performance to overcome defending champions Kelston Boys’ 20-0 in the semi-finals.
St. Paul’s College advanced to the semi-finals with a 32-4 victory over Te Haikura a Kiwa, while Tipene defeated Southern Cross 30-4 to book their place in the final four. Tipene then continued their unbeaten run, defeating St. Paul’s College 20-10 to secure the second Grand Final spot and set up a showdown with Manurewa.
Te Kōpuku recorded their first victory of the tournament with a win over Papakura High School, after falling to Trident who also secured a win over St. Patrick’s.
2026 NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals finals
Cup Final 1st/2nd 12:00 pm - Manurewa High School vs Tipene St. Stephen's
3rd/4th place final 11:00 am - Kelston Boys' High School vs St. Paul's College
See all results & the full finals day draw: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-secondary-schools-tournament-1
U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals: Day 1 wrap-up
Day 1 of the inaugural NZRL U15 Boys Secondary Schools Nationals got underway at Māngere’s Walter Massey Park today, with 13 schools from across the North Island coming together for three rounds of exciting junior rugby league.
Under cloudy skies and light winds, the tournament kicked off with plenty of energy as rangatahi took to the field, representing their schools on the national stage and competing for a place in the quarter-finals.
End of Day 1 standings:
- Tipene St. Stephen's School - Auckland
- Manurewa High School - Auckland
- Kelston Boys' High School - Auckland
- St. Paul's College - Auckland
- Te Haikura a Kiwa (James Cook High School) - Auckland
- Tokoroa High School - Tokoroa, Waikato
- Hamilton Boys' High School - Hamilton, Waikato
- Southern Cross Campus - Auckland
- St. Patrick's College Silverstream - Upper Hutt, Wellington
- Trident High School - Whakatāne, Bay of Plenty
- Tamaki College - Auckland
- Papakura High School - Auckland
- Te Kopuku High School (Mahaukura) - Hamilton, Waikato
The opening round of the day saw Kelston, St. Paul’s, Manurewa, Tipene and Hamilton Boys’ all record wins.
In Round 2, Kelston and St. Paul’s continued their winning streaks, while James Cook and Southern Cross each got their first wins on the board.
In the final round of the day, Tipene and Manurewa remained undefeated, while Tokoroa secured their first win of the tournament.
Day 2 will see a series of key quarter-final match-ups, with frontrunners Tipene taking on Southern Cross, Manurewa facing Hamilton Boys’, 2025 champions Kelston meeting Tokoroa, and St. Paul’s going up against Te Haikura a Kiwa.
Full draw & results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-secondary-schools-tournament-1
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Remembering Kiwi #146, Maurice 'Mocky' Brereton
New Zealand Rugby League and Canterbury Rugby League mourn the loss of one of the game’s great players, Kiwi #466, Canterbury captain and prolific try-scoring winger Maurice ‘Mocky’ Brereton, who has passed away aged 79.
Brereton made his New Zealand debut for the West Coast in 1969 before embarking on a record-breaking decade on the Canterbury Rugby League scene and setting a record for consecutive Tests for the Kiwis.
A teenage West Coast representative in 1966, the Greymouth Marist product featured in both Tests against the touring Australian side three years later in 1969, playing on the wing in the 20-10 first-Test loss before shifting to centre for the 18-14 victory in the second clash.
Brereton transferred to Canterbury with Marist-Western Suburbs the following season. He went on to score 46 tries in 53 matches for Canterbury, both provincial records, while his 156 touchdowns for Marist-Western Suburbs between 1970 and 1980 shattered the record for most tries in the CRL Premiership.
The determined flyer was a constant presence on the flank for the Kiwis during the 1970 home series against Great Britain and World Cup campaign, scoring a try in the win over France at Hull. He featured in all seven Tests of the watershed 1971 campaign, crossing the line in the stunning 24-3 upset of Australia at Carlaw Park.
Brereton featured in the Tests on the tour of Australia and the France World Cup in 1972, where he played two matches in the centres, and the 1974 series against the touring Lions. The 28-year-old played in the first match of the 1975 World Championship, his 24th consecutive Test from his debut.
Marist-Western Suburbs lost four Grand Finals during Brereton’s tenure at the club (1970, 1972-73, 1979), but Brereton still made his presence known scoring a double in the 22-17 loss to Papanui in 1973 and crossing again in a 26-13 defeat to Eastern Suburbs in 1979. Brereton’s Canterbury tenure included captaining the province to Rugby League Cup success in 1974 and featuring in the famous away defeat of Auckland the following season.
After coaching Marist-Western Suburbs in 1977, Brereton went on to serve as club president from 1985 to 1991.
A beloved character both on and off the field, Brereton’s status as one of the all-time greats of the game was recognised with his induction into the NZRL Legends of League in 2013.
New Zealand Rugby League and Canterbury Rugby League offer their heartfelt condolences to Mocky’s family, friends, community, and all who knew and loved Mocky. Moe mai rā, Mocky.
Credit to Canterbury Rugby League canterburyrugbyleague.co.nz
Essential info for the U15 Boys Nationals & National Secondary Schools Tournament
There are just three days to go until a massive week of national secondary schools rugby league gets underway, with the inaugural U15 Boys National Secondary Schools Tournament followed by the NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament (NZSS).
From Tuesday 1 to Thursday 3 September, Walter Massey Park in Māngere, Auckland, will host the inaugural U15 Nationals, with 15 teams of rangatahi set to compete on the national stage.
Following this, from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 September, Bruce Pulman Park in Takanini, Auckland, will come alive as 44 teams of young boys and girls represent their schools across the Boys Premiership, Girls Championship and Boys Championship grades.
Teams will travel to Auckland from across the country, including Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Coastline, Tairāwhiti, Taranaki and Canterbury, as the nation’s best secondary school rugby league talent comes together for a huge week of competition.
Here’s all the essential information you need before matches kick off on Monday.
Draw and Broadcast
All draws and results: https://www.sporty.co.nz/nzrl/national-competitions-1/national-secondary-schools-tournament-1
The U15 Nationals will not be live-streamed or broadcast.
All upcoming NZRL national tournaments will be exclusively broadcast on Sky Sport. Across all three days at NZSS, games on Bruce Pulman Park Field 1, including all grand finals on Sunday, will be broadcast.
For a $59.99 monthly Sky Sport Now pass, watch the National Secondary Schools Tournament, National Youth Tournament, National Men's and Women's Championships, National Men's Premiership, and Sky Sport National Women's Premiership - as well as all the NRL and NRLW action, with only two rounds until the finals series.
Broadcast replays will be uploaded to the NZRL YouTube channel the following day/s.
Parking
U15 Nationals, Walter Massey Park: Street parking is available on surrounding roads including Massey Road and Hain Avenue.
NZSS, Bruce Pulman Park: Spectator parking is available through Gate A (Walters Road) and Gate C (Kuaka Drive). Gate B (Walters Road) is strictly for teams and staff only, spectators will not be permitted entry through this gate.
Food
A variety of delicious food and beverage vendors will be available at both parks for all whānau and supporters to enjoy.
U15 Nationals, Walter Massey Park: Hey Presto catering & Mia's Real Fruit Ice Cream & Coffee
NZSS, Bruce Pulman Park: Birria Auckland, Sweet Azz Hawaiian BBQ, Karaage Boy, Hey Presto catering, Donut Waka, Mia's Real Fruit Ice Cream & Coffee, Kofe Bro, Addicted Coffee, Coffee Guy
Keep up with all the tournament action on NZRL’s grassroots social media platforms: beacons.ai/nzrlgrassroots
Shakira Baker's double life as a high school teacher & NRLW player
Though she tried to keep it hidden from her students, Shakira Baker's second job was never going to stay secret for long.
The Manurewa High School teacher, Kiwi Fern, and Warriors forward saw her two worlds collide earlier in the season when the school's league team played curtain-raiser to the Warriors women, officially blowing her cover.
"I kept it quiet for a little bit, but they came down to the Hamilton game against the Knights. They were all screaming on the sideline, so it was really cool to have them there and that support."
Being exposed as a Warrior has, of course, seen her become much more popular at the school.
Baker admits balancing teaching with professional sport can be difficult, but she said being in the classroom helps keep her grounded throughout the NRLW season.
However, she is hopeful rugby league will eventually become a full-time profession for women.
"It's about having that going outside of rugby league, having that outlet. Being semi-professional is tiring but I can see where they're trying to take it in the long term and hopefully in the coming years we see it become a full-time competition."
In her second year at the Warriors after a decorated career in rugby union, the former Black Ferns Sevens star said the side was just beginning to gel after a tough run of injuries early in the year.
"It's been up and down a little bit, we're trying to get consistency. We've taken the learnings and just want to put our best foot forward."
Still a relative rookie in league, Baker knows she still has plenty more to learn.
"Having that first season, knowing what to expect, knowing what the body is gonna feel like and things like that. I'm still enjoying it, still loving being a part of this club and I am understanding the game a little bit more but still a lot to learn as well."
With the Warriors securing some big name signings in 2026, including Stacey Waaka and Mele Hufanga, Baker said they felt the expectations on the side grow.
"Their knowledge and the energy that they've brought in really sort of amped us ones coming in from last year. I'm not too sure if that put a target on our club or not. But we're really lucky to have that experience and their knowledge amongst us."
Though not a veteran in league, Baker brings 17 years of experience herself as a professional sportswoman.
Having started her career at 19 with the Wellington Farah Palmer Cup side, Baker went on to earn 13 test caps as well as Commonwealth Games and Rugby World Cup gold medals in Sevens.
She has no desire to return, however.
"Once I hung up the rugby boots and put my rugby league boots on, that was the decision I made, that I want to see that through long term. There's no thinking I want to make a switch back."
While leadership doesn't come naturally for her, Baker is a natural mentor for the team's younger players.
"I've been involved in sport for a very long time but I'm sort of a person of few words so I just go out there and do it and if it rubs off on them, it rubs off on them. They keep me young."
She also understands the sporting journey is not all smooth sailing, having also faced her fair share of adversity.
In 2013, Baker was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome, a heart condition which brings an increased risk of fainting, seizures, or sudden death during physical activity.
With her playing future under threat, Baker underwent surgery and has fortunately continued her career without incident.
"I was signed off by the cardiologist and I don't have to take medication and things like that, I still have the condition but it's non-symptomatic so it's all fine."
However, Baker must always have a defibrillator close by, though it is now largely precautionary.
"I'm most likely to use it on someone else than myself at the moment."
As seen on rnz.co.nz
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Joey Manu set to return to rugby league in 2028
The PNG Chiefs confirmed the signing of two-time NRL Premiership winner and New Zealand international, Kiwi #815 Joseph Manu on a two-year deal as the club continues to build a strong roster ahead of its inaugural season.
Currently playing for Racing 92 in French rugby union, Manu will become Chiefs Player #007 – joining Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax and Brian To’o as players signed to the club for the 2028 season.
He will link up with the Chiefs on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 seasons.
Born in New Zealand with Māori and Cook Island descent, Manu made his first-grade debut in 2016 after an impressive junior rugby league career which included appearances in the U/19 Commonwealth Games in 2014 and Junior Kiwis in 2015. Manu last represented the Kiwis in 2023 when they won the inaugural Pacific Championships Cup.
Having won both the U/18’s (2014) and U/20’s (2016) competition with the Roosters, he won his first NRL Premiership with the Tricolours in 2018 – helping the club repeat their efforts the following year as they won the title again in 2019.
In addition to his 69 tries scored in 181 NRL games, Manu has also made 17 Test match appearances for New Zealand and was named the Golden Boot winner in 2022.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the star outside back was another significant signing for the club both on and off the field.
“Joey is another key signing for us and a further demonstration of the ambition we have for this club in making an impact for the people of Papua New Guinea. His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club.
“He understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself, and we believe he can have a genuine impact on our young players and the next generation of Papua New Guineans – who we are proud to represent as a club.”
PNG Chiefs General Manager – Football Michael Chammas said Manu would offer a great attacking threat and experience to the Chiefs’ roster.
“We’re thrilled to add Joey to our squad moving forward,” Chammas said. “He is a world-class footballer with versatility across several positions and can change a game in a single moment with the skills he possesses.
“His experience and demonstrated success at the highest level will be a great benefit to our team and we can’t wait to see him have a significant impact in the Chiefs jersey."
As seen on nrl.com