SEASON PREVIEW, ALL BLACKS PLAYER PROFILES AND 2025 FIXTURES
WOMEN’S RUGBY WORLD CUP 2025 DRAW
NPC TEAM PROFILES
BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE NPC, HEARTLAND CHAMPIONSHIP AND FARAH PALMER CUP DRAWS
MANAGING EDITOR:
Oliver Lee
EDITOR: Peter White
DESIGN & LAYOUT: Mervyn Hurley
PHOTOGRAPHY:
New Zealand Rugby
Official Photography Library
Source: SmartFrame
PRINTING:
Webstar Auckland
PUBLISHER :
14 FARAH PALMER CUP FIXTURES
We look back at the All Blacks’ series win over France and look ahead to The Rugby Championship, Bledisloe Cup and end-of-season tour. A big year ahead for the Blackferns as they prepare for the World Cup in August and we look at the three major domestic competitions.
ALL BLACKS PLAYER PROFILES
We profile the All Blacks selected for the recent 2025 Lipovitan-D July Series against France.
13 WOMEN’S RUGBY WORLD CUP
2025 DRAW
The best 16 teams in the world will contest the Women’s Rugby World Cup to be held in England between August 22 and September 27.
T: +64 274 599 503
E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz
W: oliverlee.co.nz
ISSN 2463-7041 ( PRINT )
ISSN 2463-705X ( ONLINE )
Twelve teams will kick-off the Heartland Championship in the hope of becoming the next Meads Cup or Lochore Cup champions. 04 2025 SEASON PREVIEW
Here is the draw of all the games in this year’s Farah Palmer Cup, which is expected to be another thrilling competition.
16 2025 NPC FIXTURES
This year’s NPC will have all 14-teams represented in a single points table, with the top eight teams progressing to the play-offs.
2025 NPC TEAM PREVIEWS
Here is your preview of all 14 teams, their hopes and aspirations, ahead of the new season. 18 COUNTIES MANUKAU and BAY OF PLENTY
NOTE: The TAB odds quoted on the NPC team previews throughout the magazine were correct on 18 July 2025. For the latest odds visit tab.co.nz COPYRIGHT: Reproduction in whole or in part by any means is prohibited. DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.
PETER WHITE
What style of rugby does he favour – and who will claim the starting jerseys – with the next Rugby World Cup looming in Australia in 2027?
The All Blacks began their 2025 campaign with a battling 3 – 0 series win over an under-strength squad from France. The gallant French gave the All Blacks a fright in the opening test in Dunedin (31–27), followed by a comprehensive All Blacks victory in Wellington (43 –17), before a close-run win in Hamilton (29 –19). It was an opportunity for the All Blacks to blood some new players, which augurs well for the future. Next up for the All Blacks is the 14th and final edition of the Rugby Championship – before the Nations Championship begins in 2026. The All Blacks start with two tests in Argentina, before South Africa arrive for epic clashes in Auckland and Wellington, followed by home and away matches against Australia (also Bledisloe Cup games).
It is an important year for women’s rugby. The Black Ferns defend their Women’s Rugby World Cup title in England between August 22 and September 27. The host nation is still smarting at losing the final to the Black Ferns four years ago at Eden Park. Check out the draw on page 13
The men’s NPC and Heartland Championship, plus the women’s Farah Palmer Cup – all presented by Bunnings Warehouse – will showcase the provincial tribalism inherent in these iconic competitions. We preview each of the 14 teams contesting the NPC from page 18. Last year, Wellington defeated Bay of Plenty late into extra time in one of the most memorable finals in recent memory. Taranaki took the Ranfurly Shield off Tasman so once again have tenure over the famous Log o’ Wood. Go to pages 16 –17 for all the fixtures.
The women’s Farah Palmer Cup competition was won by Waikato Women after a pulsating 27– 25 win over Canterbury Women in the final. The season-long draw is on page 14. The Heartland Championship kicks off on August 16. The teams ranked 1– 4 at the end of round robin compete for the Meads Cup, while the teams ranked 5 – 6 play for the Lochore Cup. Find the draw on page 30.
We hope you enjoy reading Rugby 2025.
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The All Blacks under head coach Scott Robertson will play 13 tests this year across seven countries, finishing up with a final test against Wales in Cardiff on November 23. The season has started well with victories in July in the three tests over France played in New Zealand. The upcoming tests against Argentina, South Africa and the Wallabies in the Rugby Championship (and Bledisloe Cup against the Wallabies) will be a stern challenge, as will the end-of-year tests against Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.
We profile the 34 All Blacks who played in the 2025 Lipovitan-D July Series against France. Also selected for the July series but did not play due to injury were Caleb Clarke, Wallace Sititi and Tamati Williams. All statistics were correct on 20 July 2025. For all up-to-date information on the All Blacks visit: www.allblacks.com
PLACE OF BIRTH: NEW PLYMOUTH
DATE OF BIRTH: 20 NOVEMBER 1993 AGE: 31
HEIGHT: 1.97m WEIGHT: 111kg
POSITION: LOCK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TARANAKI
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v IRELAND IN CHICAGO, 5 NOVEMBER 2016
ALL BLACK TESTS: 81
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 35
PLACE OF BIRTH: KING COUNTRY
DATE OF BIRTH: 21 MARCH 2001 AGE: 24
HEIGHT: 1.79m WEIGHT: 87kg
POSITION: HALFBACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v ENGLAND IN AUCKLAND, 13 JULY 2024
ALL BLACK TESTS: 14
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: NEW PLYMOUTH
DATE OF BIRTH: 27 MAY 1991 AGE: 34
HEIGHT: 1.87m WEIGHT: 91kg
POSITION: FIRST FIVE-EIGHTH
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TARANAKI
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: BLUES
TEST DEBUT: v IRELAND IN HAMILTON, 23 JUNE 2012
ALL BLACK TESTS: 136
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 800
PLACE OF BIRTH: CHRISTCHURCH
DATE OF BIRTH: 15 APRIL 1995 AGE: 30
HEIGHT: 1.85m WEIGHT: 96kg
POSITION: CENTRE
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v AUSTRALIA IN WELLINGTON, 27 AUGUST 2016
ALL BLACK TESTS: 85
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 80
PLACE OF BIRTH: AUCKLAND
DATE OF BIRTH: 18 MARCH 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.89m WEIGHT: 103kg
POSITION: WING
PROVINCIAL TEAM: AUCKLAND
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: BLUES
TEST DEBUT: v ITALY IN ROME, 12 NOVEMBER 2016
ALL BLACK TESTS: 83
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 190
PLACE OF BIRTH: CAMBRIDGE
DATE OF BIRTH: 16 NOVEMBER 2000 AGE: 24
HEIGHT: 1.83m WEIGHT: 88kg
POSITION: HALFBACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: COUNTIES MANUKAU
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v AUSTRALIA IN MELBOURNE, 29 JULY 2023
ALL BLACK TESTS: 12
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 40
PLACE OF BIRTH: HAMILTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 23 MAY 2003 AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 1.81m WEIGHT: 90kg
POSITION: HALFBACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TASMAN
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v FIJI IN SAN DIEGO, 19 JULY 2024
ALL BLACK TESTS: 2
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: INVERCARGILL
DATE OF BIRTH: 20 APRIL 1995 AGE: 30
HEIGHT: 1.77m WEIGHT: 78kg
POSITION: FIRST FIVE-EIGHTH
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v ARGENTINA IN BUENOS AIRES, 1 OCTOBER 2016
ALL BLACK TESTS: 64
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 320
PLACE OF BIRTH: NEW PLYMOUTH
DATE OF BIRTH: 17 FEBRUARY 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.96m WEIGHT: 95kg
POSITION: OUTSIDE BACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TARANAKI
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v SAMOA IN AUCKLAND, 16 JUNE 2017
ALL BLACK TESTS: 71
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 304
PLACE OF BIRTH: HAMILTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 10 MAY 1999 AGE: 26
HEIGHT: 1.86m WEIGHT: 97kg
POSITION: MIDFIELD BACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v TONGA IN EDEN PARK, 3 JULY 2021
ALL BLACK TESTS: 16
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 10
PLACE OF BIRTH: WELLINGTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 14 MAY 1999 AGE: 26
HEIGHT: 1.87m WEIGHT: 96kg
POSITION: CENTRE
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WELLINGTON
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v FIJI IN SAN DIEGO, 19 JULY 2024
ALL BLACK TESTS: 4
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 10
PLACE OF BIRTH: NADI, FIJI
DATE OF BIRTH: 15 FEBRUARY 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.79m WEIGHT: 87kg
POSITION: WING
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v ARGENTINA IN BUENOS AIRES, 20 JULY 2019
ALL BLACK TESTS: 34
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 90
PLACE OF BIRTH: WELLINGTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 28 APRIL 2001 AGE: 24
HEIGHT: 1.83m WEIGHT: 90kg
POSITION: OUTSIDE BACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WELLINGTON
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v JAPAN IN YOKOHAMA, 26 OCTOBER 2024
ALL BLACK TESTS: 2
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 10
PLACE OF BIRTH: LEVIN
DATE OF BIRTH: 31 MARCH 1991 AGE: 34
HEIGHT: 1.83m WEIGHT: 108kg
POSITION: HOOKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: CANTERBURY
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v ARGENTINA IN CHRISTCHURCH, 17 JULY 2015
ALL BLACK TESTS: 98
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 110
PLACE OF BIRTH: NEW ZEALAND
DATE OF BIRTH: 17 JUNE 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.82m WEIGHT: 112kg
POSITION: HOOKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: CANTERBURY
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN HAMILTON, 19 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 1
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
DATE OF BIRTH: 11 DECEMBER 1999 AGE: 25
HEIGHT: 1.95m WEIGHT: 126kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN DUNEDIN, 5 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 2
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: NAUSORI, FIJI
DATE OF BIRTH: 14 FEBRUARY 1998 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.75m WEIGHT: 106kg
POSITION: WING, CENTRE
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TASMAN
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HIGHLANDERS
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN WELLINGTON, 12 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 2
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: CHRISTCHURCH
DATE OF BIRTH: 24 FEBRUARY 1998 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.88m WEIGHT: 94kg
POSITION: FULLBACK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TASMAN
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v AUSTRALIA IN BRISBANE, 7 NOVEMBER 2020
ALL BLACK TESTS: 44
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 210
PLACE OF BIRTH: SUVA, FIJI
DATE OF BIRTH: 13 JULY 1999 AGE: 26
HEIGHT: 1.84m WEIGHT: 98kg
POSITION: WING
PROVINCIAL TEAM: BAY OF PLENTY
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v ARGENTINA IN MENDOZA, 8 JULY 2023
ALL BLACK TESTS: 3
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: TONGATAPU, TONGA
DATE OF BIRTH: 8 AUGUST 1997 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.83m WEIGHT: 115kg
POSITION: HOOKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v FIJI IN HAMILTON, 17 JULY 2021
ALL BLACK TESTS: 33
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 50
PLACE OF BIRTH: SOUTHPORT, AUSTRALIA
DATE OF BIRTH: 22 JULY 1998 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.90m WEIGHT: 122kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: SOUTHLAND
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HIGHLANDERS
TEST DEBUT: v FIJI IN DUNEDIN, 10 JULY 2021
ALL BLACK TESTS: 32
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 20
PLACE OF BIRTH: CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA
DATE OF BIRTH: 16 MARCH 1996 AGE: 29
HEIGHT: 1.92m WEIGHT: 127kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TASMAN
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HIGHLANDERS
TEST DEBUT: v JAPAN IN TOKYO, 3 NOVEMBER 2018
ALL BLACK TESTS: 45
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
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PLACE OF BIRTH: RANGIORA
DATE OF BIRTH: 1 MARCH 2000 AGE: 25
HEIGHT: 1.86m WEIGHT: 121kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: CANTERBURY
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v SOUTH AFRICA IN JOHANNESBURG, 13 AUGUST 2022
ALL BLACK TESTS: 25
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: WELLINGTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 29 JANUARY 2002 AGE: 33
HEIGHT: 1.83m WEIGHT: 115kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: OTAGO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v TONGA IN AUCKLAND, 3 JULY 2021
ALL BLACK TESTS: 23
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: AUCKLAND
DATE OF BIRTH: 27 JANUARY 2000 AGE: 25
HEIGHT: 1.98m WEIGHT: 118kg
POSITION: LOCK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: TARANAKI
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v AUSTRALIA IN WELLINGTON, 11 OCTOBER 2020
ALL BLACK TESTS: 40
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 25
PLACE OF BIRTH: NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA
DATE OF BIRTH: 10 MAY 1999 AGE: 26
HEIGHT: 1.93m WEIGHT: 115kg
POSITION: LOCK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v AUSTRALIA IN DUNEDIN, 5 AUGUST 2023
ALL BLACK TESTS: 11
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 10
PLACE OF BIRTH: NEW PLYMOUTH
DATE OF BIRTH: 3 MARCH 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.81m WEIGHT: 103kg
POSITION: FLANKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WELLINGTON
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN DUNEDIN, 5 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 3
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: AUCKLAND
DATE OF BIRTH: 26 AUGUST 1998 AGE: 26
HEIGHT: 1.87m WEIGHT: 111kg
POSITION: FLANKER/NUMBER 8
PROVINCIAL TEAM: OTAGO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CRUSADERS
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN DUNEDIN, 5 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 3
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: LEVIN
DATE OF BIRTH: 18 JULY 1998 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.93m WEIGHT: 140kg
POSITION: PROP
PROVINCIAL TEAM: BAY OF PLENTY
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HURRICANES
TEST DEBUT: v FIJI IN SAN DIEGO, 19 JULY 2024
ALL BLACK TESTS: 9
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 5
PLACE OF BIRTH: CHRISTCHURCH
DATE OF BIRTH: 23 JANUARY 1993 AGE: 32
HEIGHT: 1.98m WEIGHT: 120kg
POSITION: LOCK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: AUCKLAND
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: BLUES
TEST DEBUT: v ENGLAND IN DUNEDIN, 14 JULY 2014
ALL BLACK TESTS: 53
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 40
PLACE OF BIRTH: NETHERLANDS
DATE OF BIRTH: 9 OCTOBER 2002 AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 2.04m WEIGHT: 124kg
POSITION: LOCK
PROVINCIAL TEAM: OTAGO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: HIGHLANDERS
TEST DEBUT: v FRANCE IN DUNEDIN, 5 JULY 2025
ALL BLACK TESTS: 3
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 0
PLACE OF BIRTH: WELLINGTON
DATE OF BIRTH: 14 OCTOBER 1993 AGE: 31
HEIGHT: 1.90m WEIGHT: 99kg
POSITION: LOOSE FORWARD
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WELLINGTON
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: MOANA PASIFIKA
TEST DEBUT: v WALES IN AUCKLAND, 11 JUNE 2016
ALL BLACK TESTS: 97
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 145
PLACE OF BIRTH: AUCKLAND
DATE OF BIRTH: 11 OCTOBER 1997 AGE: 27
HEIGHT: 1.93m WEIGHT: 113kg
POSITION: FLANKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: COUNTIES MANUKAU
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: BLUES
TEST DEBUT: v JAPAN IN TOKYO, 3 NOVEMBER 2018
ALL BLACK TESTS: 37
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 40
PLACE OF BIRTH: CAMBRIDGE
DATE OF BIRTH: 20 APRIL 1997 AGE: 28
HEIGHT: 1.91m WEIGHT: 107kg
POSITION: FLANKER
PROVINCIAL TEAM: WAIKATO
SUPER RUGBY TEAM: CHIEFS
TEST DEBUT: v ARGENTINA IN BUENOS AIRES, 20 JULY 2019
ALL BLACK TESTS: 25
ALL BLACK TEST POINTS: 25
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
SUNDAY 24 AUGUST 1.45am
SCOTLAND v WALES SALFORD COMMUNITY STADIUM, MANCHESTER
SUNDAY 24 AUGUST 4.30am CANADA v FIJI YORK COMMUNITY STADIUM, YORK
SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 11.00pm
CANADA v WALES SALFORD COMMUNITY STADIUM, MANCHESTER
SUNDAY 31 AUGUST 1:45am
SCOTLAND v FIJI SALFORD COMMUNITY STADIUM, MANCHESTER
SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 11.00pm
CANADA v SCOTLAND
SANDY PARK, EXETER
SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 1.45am WALES v FIJI
SANDY PARK, EXETER
SUNDAY 24 AUGUST 11.00pm IRELAND v JAPAN FRANKLINS GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
MONDAY 25 AUGUST 4.30am
NEW ZEALAND v SPAIN YORK COMMUNITY STADIUM, YORK
SUNDAY 31 AUGUST 11.00pm IRELAND v SPAIN FRANKLINS GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 1.00am
NEW ZEALAND v JAPAN SANDY PARK, EXETER
SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 11.00pm JAPAN v SPAIN YORK COMMUNITY STADIUM, YORK
MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 1.45am NEW ZEALAND v IRELAND BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION STADIUM
SUNDAY 24 AUGUST 7.15am FRANCE v ITALY SANDY PARK, EXETER
MONDAY 25 AUGUST 1.45am
SOUTH AFRICA v BRAZIL FRANKLINS GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 2.30am ITALY v SOUTH AFRICA YORK COMMUNITY STADIUM, YORK
MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 3.45am
FRANCE v BRAZIL SANDY PARK, EXETER
MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 1.00am ITALY v BRAZIL FRANKLINS GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 3.45am
v SOUTH AFRICA FRANKLINS GARDENS, NORTHAMPTON
The ever-popular Farah Palmer Cup will be decided over nine weeks of intense competition while the Black Ferns are defending their Women’s Rugby World Cup title in England. There are 13 teams involved in the Farah Palmer Cup – seven in the Premiership and six in the Championship –with promotion/relegation between the two divisions.
In 2024, Waikato won a pulsating final against Canterbury and the defending champs kick-off the season with a difficult clash away to Auckland. Championship winners Manawatū are promoted up to the Premiership and begin with a tough opener against Canterbury.
Waikato’s first defence of the JJ Stewart Trophy (run like the Ranfurly Shield) is against Counties Manukau in round two.
Premiership
Auckland Bay of Plenty
Canterbury Counties Manukau
Hawke’s Bay Manawatū
Waikato
Championship
Northland
North Harbour
Otago
Taranaki
Tasman Wellington
WEEK 9: SATURDAY 4 OCTOBER
The 14 teams involved will play 70 matches before the play-offs in just 10 weeks. For all up-to-date information on the BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE NPC and any changes to kick-off times, visit https://www. provincial.rugby
[RS] DENOTES
RANFURLY SHIELD CHALLENGE
This year’s competition format sees all 14 teams represented in a single points table, with the top-eight teams progressing to the play-offs. The quarter-finals see the top-ranked team hosting (1 v 8, 2 v 7, 3 v 6, 4 v 5). The following weekend’s semi-finals will see teams play-off for a spot in the finals (1 v 4, 2 v 3). Quarter-finals will be played on October 10–11, semi-finals on October 17–18 with the NPC final currently scheduled for Saturday, October 25.
The Ranfurly Shield will run concurrently within the NPC match schedule, with the holders (Taranaki) putting the Shield up for challengers at every home game during the round-robin stage of the NPC.
Wellington are the reigning NPC champions and Taranaki the Ranfurly Shield holders. Taranaki have successfully defended two early season challenges with Northland next to play for the famous Log o’ Wood. The Naki take on the Taniwha at Stadium Taranaki in New Plymouth on August 2 at 7.10pm..
FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION GO TO www.provincial.rugby
All 14 teams play each other in round robin competition, with the top eight teams progressing to the play-offs — by PETER WHITE.
COACH: REON GRAHAM
WEBSITE: www.steelers.co.nz
PHONE: 09 237 0033
TICKETS: steelers.flicket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $26.00
EIGHTH IN 2024: The Steelers scraped into the play-offs last season thanks to bonus points accrued. The undoubted highlight of the round-robin games was the Steelers 51–12 thumping of eventual champions Wellington. In the key quarter-final clash, Wellington reversed the result from Pukekohe to put an end to the Steelers season.
KEY PLAYERS: Chiefs wing/fullback Etene Nanai-Seturo is one of the best finishers in the game at any level.
First-five Riley Hohepa had some game time with the Crusaders. Barnstorming No 8 Hoskins Sotutu has plenty of motivation to regain an All Blacks jersey. Moana Pasifika outside back Tevita Ofa is a player to watch for the Steelers. The former Wesley College star has blistering pace and can play in multiple positions.
YOUNG GUNS: Blake Makiri made his debut for the Steelers in 2023 and is maturing nicely as a quality wing. Blake has experience with the Utah Warriors in the MRL.
First-five Josh Penney had a taste of NPC rugby.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Counties Manukau celebrates 70 years as a union in 2025 which will be an opportunity for past players and coaches to reunite at various functions. Coach Reon Graham begins his fourth season in charge and continues his philosophy of picking home-grown players as his first option. The Steelers are capable of knocking over any team in the competition when all the variables click together
RUNNERS-UP IN 2024: The Steamers contributed immensely to one of the great NPC finals in recent memory, before losing to Wellington in the 96th minute in extra time. It was a heart-breaking way to miss out on their first NPC title since 1976. The Steamers played an exhilarating brand of rugby throughout the campaign and richly deserved their place in the final.
COACH: RICHARD WATT
WEBSITE: www.boprugby.co.nz
PHONE: 07 574 2037
TICKETS: www.boprugby.co.nz/ buy/home-gametickets
TAB ODDS: $10.00
KEY PLAYERS: Dynamic wing Leroy Carter went from sevens star to potential All Black with the Steamers and Chiefs. He seems to produce moments of magic for the Steamers and is a key motivating factor on the field. Māori All Blacks hooker and captain Kurt Eckland, lock/flanker Naitoa Ah Kuoi, first-five/fullback Kaleb Trask, first-five Lucas Cashmore and explosive wing Emoni Narawa all have key roles to play with their Super Rugby Pacific experience.
YOUNG GUNS: Two former Tauranga Boys’ College stars and NZ Under-20s reps head the list. Lock Aisake Vakasiuola played in the semi-final and final last year. He has genuine size and athletic ability. Halfback Charlie Sinton makes good decisions and puts others around him into space. He is straight out of school and will be understudy to Richard Judd. Lock Jai Knight is big and athletic.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Another top season looms for the Steamers. A potential Ranfurly Shield challenge against Taranaki on September 7 – if the holders take care of Northland and Waikato first – has rugby fans buzzing
to the final.
COACH: TRENT RENATA
WEBSITE: wellingtonlions.co.nz
PHONE: 04 389 0020
TICKETS: wellingtonlions. flicket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $4.00
CHAMPIONS IN 2024: The Lions added the title to their win in 2022 but only just, as Bay of Plenty pushed them all the way, deep into extra time. The successful season was based on a strong squad and some outstanding individual performers, including Du’Plessis Kirifi and Reuben Love, who have since moved on to the All Blacks.
KEY PLAYERS: No 8 Peter Lakai made such an impact in last year’s NPC he was selected for the All Blacks. Riley Higgins was on the cusp of higher honours before an injury slowed his progress, so expect the solidly-built midfielder to be a standout player for the Lions. Māori All Blacks lock/flanker Caleb Delany is a relentless defender who dominates at the breakdown.
YOUNG GUNS: First-five Callum Harkin will look to impress after he kicked the winning penalty to win last year’s final. The Lions have plenty of talented players from the NZ Under-20s to consider for the NPC – including wing Sam Solomon, who continues to impress with his try-scoring ability, and loose forwards Harry Irving and Israel Time, who are athletic and aggressive tacklers.
SEASON PROSPECTS: The Lions were champions in 2022 and 2024 – so why not in 2025? New head coach Trent Renata has an impressive squad to work with, full of Super Rugby and international experience. Last year’s success, highlighted by that remarkable final, is a confidence boost ahead of the new campaign.
SEMI-FINALISTS IN 2024: After two consecutive quarter-final defeats, Waikato made it through to the semis last year before losing an enthralling contest to eventual champions Wellington. It was a muddling campaign overall. Waikato won five and lost five of their 10 round-robin games, needing bonus points just to make the play-offs.
KEY PLAYERS: Halfback Xavier Rowe has improved dramatically with regular game-time with the Chiefs. Waikato’s five Māori All Blacks will all play key roles. Lock Laghlan McWhannell has proved his worth with the Chiefs and Blues, while loose forward Jahrome Brown’s performances for the Brumbies showed his ball-winning ability and defensive might. Midfielder Bailyn Sullivan is a powerful ball-carrier, Mason Tupaea is one of the best young props in the country, and centre/wing Gideon Wrampling took his chances well for the Chiefs.
YOUNG GUNS: NZ Under-20s loose forwards Micah Fale and Oli Mathis are both undoubtedly players to watch for the future. Xavier Saifoloi is a No 8 with the size and strength to be a real force in the contact zones and with ball in hand.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Ross Filipo returns to lead the squad for the fifth consecutive season. That continuity of service is rare in the NPC and he was rewarded with the Māori All Blacks head coaching role this year. Waikato last won the NPC back in 2021 and have a roster chocker-block with Super Rugby Pacific talent. There is every chance the Mooloo men will be contenders come finals time in October.
COACH: MARTY BOURKE
WEBSITE: canterburyrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 03 379 8300
TICKETS: www.ticket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $4.50
SEMI-FINALIST IN 2024: It may surprise rugby fans to know Canterbury have not won the NPC since 2017. That barren run looked under threat last year after they hit top form to thrash Tasman in the quarter-final, before running aground in Tauranga against a red-hot Bay of Plenty side. In round-robin play, Canterbury finished in sixth place after an inconsistent campaign.
KEY PLAYERS: All Blacks lock Sam Darry missed the entire Super Rugby Pacific season with a shoulder injury but should be fit to drive the Canterbury engine room.
Māori All Blacks Cullen Grace and Zach Gallagher are top class performers. No 8 Grace is returning to his very best form after injury setbacks while Gallagher is one of the best locks in the competition.
YOUNG GUNS: Five players who came through the academy pathway should get their chance for Canterbury. Lanky lock Liam Jack has quality second-row breeding, midfielders Toby Bell and James Cameron, plus prop Gus Brown, are highly regarded, while hooker Manamaua Letiu has already made an appearance for the Crusaders.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Marty Bourke suits up for his fourth year as head coach. The drums are beating loudly in the Canterbury region to win the NPC title again. The squad is strong in all areas, with real depth in most positions and plenty of potential matchwinners across the park. The draw has not been kind though, with three difficult games to start against Wellington (away), Auckland (home) and Bay of Plenty (away), in the farewell season at Apollo Projects Stadium.
QUARTER-FINALIST IN 2024: It was quite the roller-coaster of a season for the Tasman Mako. In the union’s first tenure as Ranfurly Shield holders, they defended the Log ‘o Wood right up until the final home game – only for Taranaki to take it away. Hopes of a run at the NPC title were dashed by a heavy defeat to Canterbury in the quarter-final.
KEY PLAYERS: Māori All Blacks and Crusaders lock Antonio Shalfoon is definitely a player on the rise and should ensure Tasman dominate the lineouts. His Crusaders team mate Macca Springer is another high-flyer with speed to burn and a nose for the try line. Recent All Blacks in halfback Finlay Christie, flanker Ethan Blackadder and midfielder David Havili have extra motivation to play well. Moana Pasifika wing Kyren Taumoefolau is a classy finisher.
YOUNG GUNS: Tasman had three players at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Italy. Wing Cooper Roberts has speed to burn and looks a similar player to Springer, Eli Oudenryn is a dynamic hooker, while centre Maloni Kunawave has a distinct eye for a gap and top-end pace.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Head coach Gray Cornelius is in charge of one of the strongest squads assembled for this year’s NPC. Not only are there experienced provincial and Super Rugby players spread throughout the group, but All Blacks who were left out of the squad for the tests against France. Cornelius also has plenty of young talent from the union’s impressive development pathway.
COACH: GRAY CORNELIUS
WEBSITE: tasmanrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 03 548 7030
TICKETS: mako.flicket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $3.50
ELEVENTH PLACE IN 2024: It was one of the worst results for Auckland in the NPC – just three wins from 10 games and ending up well outside the play-offs. There were injuries to key players that hurt the stability of the side but there can be no hiding from the seven defeats. A star-studded roster should have done much better.
COACH: STEVEN BATES
WEBSITE: aucklandrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 09 815 4850
TICKETS: aucklandrugby. flicket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $8.00
KEY PLAYERS: Josh Beehre is arguably the most improved lock in New Zealand rugby. He made his debut for Auckland in 2022 but it was his performances for the Blues this year that stood out. He was then selected to play for the Barbarians against the Springboks in Cape Town in June. Outside back AJ Lam, wing Lolagi Visinia and loose forward Anton Senter are top class performers.
YOUNG GUNS: Wing Caleb Tangitau’s speed was obvious during his time with the All Blacks Sevens, but he has taken his all-round game to a new level with some outstanding performances for the Highlanders this year. The Māori All Blacks duo of halfback Kemara Hauiti-Parapara and midfielder Xavi Taele are bright sparks for the future.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Auckland last won the NPC title in 2018, which for everyone associated with the union is too long ago. Former All Black Steven Bates replaces Craig McGrath as head coach, after spending four years as a resource coach with Auckland. His passion for the union may be just what is needed to get the blue-and-white hoops back into the title race.
QUARTER-FINALIST IN 2024: Taranaki began the defence of the title they won in 2023 in some style, racing away to be joint top-of-the-table leaders with Wellington after eight wins from their 10 round-robin games. Expectations were high for the home quarter-final against Waikato but the game ended in a shock 14–15 loss to send Taranaki crashing out of the competition.
KEY PLAYERS: The mercurial talents of Stephen Perofeta should be on display – if his shocking run of injuries comes to an end. First-five Josh Jacomb has proven he can play at Super Rugby level for the Chiefs and will start alongside Daniel Rona. Fullback Jacob RatumaitavukiKneepkens was a standout for the Highlanders and should be a real attacking threat. Josh Lord, Kaylum Boshier and Reuben O’Neill are all top quality.
YOUNG GUNS: NZ Under-20 reps in prop Dane Johnston and midfielder Jack Wiseman will be keen for game-time and should benefit from being around the squad. Chiefs under-20s hooker JJ Pokai is a quality prospect who will put pressure on the experienced pair of Bradley Slater and Ricky Riccitelli. Lock Fiti Sa is set for a big season while Fijian Drua’s explosive winger Taniela Rakuro is another to watch.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Head coach Neil Barnes has retained much of his impressive squad back from last season. He continues to rely heavily on club rugby to build up depth in the squad which has been a positive and successful move. As Ranfurly Shield holders, there will be extra motivation for the players to perform at home games in front of some of the country’s most passionate fans.
COACH:
JIMMY MAHER
WEBSITE: harbourrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 09 447 2100
TICKETS: harbourrugby. flicket.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $21.00
COACH: RYAN MARTIN
WEBSITE: northlandrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 09 438 4743
TICKETS: www.eventfinda.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $101.00
TENTH PLACE IN 2024: For the second consecutive year Harbour finished well outside the play-offs in 10th place. Considering the talent contained within the squad, the final placing was well below expectations. A controversial final-play loss to Auckland at Eden Park was hard to take but the record 65–19 win over Canterbury showed how good Harbour could be.
KEY PLAYERS: New signings Patrick Pellegrini and Tom Savage join from Moana Pasifika and are a timely boost to Harbour’s chances in 2025. Silky first-five Pellegrini had a fine Super Rugby Pacific campaign, after three years with Coventry in England, while experienced lock Savage is thriving in New Zealand after moving over from England. Wing/fullback Kade Banks was a quality player last season, while discarded All Blacks winger Mark Tele’a will want to make a major contribution before he leaves for Japan.
YOUNG GUNS: Lock Cameron Christie showed his ability with the Blues this year so expect him to be a dominant force for Harbour. Lock Jack Lee has abundant promise and loose-forward Tristyn Cook continues to impress.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Harbour’s long-suffering fans hope new head coach Jimmy Maher can change the team’s fortunes. “I am eager to work with the talented players and dedicated staff to build a team that not only achieves success on the field but also makes a positive impact in our community,” says Maher.
THIRTEENTH IN 2024: Following a memorable season in 2022 when the Taniwha reached the quarter-finals, the last two campaigns have ended in disappointing 12th and 13th placings. Last year, only two wins were recorded – and losing at home to bottom team Southland was particularly grating – but the Taniwha did come close on several occasions.
KEY PLAYERS: Every coach would love to have the Māori All Blacks combination of halfback Sam Nock and first-five Rivez Reihana running their backline. The outstanding duo has a wealth of experience between them and the ability to break open games. Fullback Corey Evans was also selected for the Māori All Blacks. Tireless
leader Matt Matich will again inspire his forward pack which has a solid-looking set piece, including Blues’ tighthead prop Marcel Reneta and former All Black Ofa Tu’ungafasi, to produce ball for a talented backline.
YOUNG GUNS: Blues and former Canterbury hooker James Mullan adds technical expertise and big-game experience to the squad. Wing Nathan Salmon is strong and fast. He impressed in 2024 but should step up to an even higher level this season. Jade Stewart has all the skills needed to be a top-class first-five.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Ryan Martin is Northland’s latest head coach. He follows one-season coaches Dale MacLeod and John Leslie. Martin, who worked under MacLeod last year, says he is excited to continue building on that foundation. “Northland has a proud rugby history and an exciting future – I’m committed to helping us reach that next level.”
COACH: BROCK JAMES
WEBSITE: hbmagpies.co.nz
PHONE: 06 835 7617
TICKETS: hbmagpies.flicket
TAB ODDS: $12.00
COACH: WESLEY CLARKE
WEBSITE: turbosrugby.co.nz
PHONE: 06 357 2633
TICKETS: ticketek.co.nz
TAB ODDS: $201.00
QUARTER-FINALIST IN 2024: Hawke’s Bay Magpies made it all the way to the grand final in 2023 but last season’s campaign came to an abrupt end at the Tauranga Domain, when they were pipped 19-17 by Bay of Plenty in a tense quarter-final. In the round robin games, the Magpies dropped four games to finish outside the top four in fifth place.
KEY PLAYERS: Former All Blacks halfback Folau Fakatava, first-five/fullback Harry Godfrey and wing Neria Fomai are high class players. But the big signings exciting fans are Blues fullback Zarn Sullivan and Moana Pasifika flanker Miracle Fai’ilagi. Napier-born and raised Sullivan was one of five Hawke’s Bay players – along with prop Pouri RaketeStones, lock Isaia Walker-Leawere, wing Jonah Lowe and hooker Jacob Devery – named in the 2025 Māori All Blacks.
YOUNG GUNS: Club form has been rewarded.
Mikaele Tapilii, Hadlee Hay-Horton, Anaru Paenga-Morgan, Andrew Tauatevalu, Kere Penitito, Dylan Homan, Kade Manuel, Jeriah Mua, Valentino Taito and Lachie Gunson have all secured full time contracts. First-five Will Cole made the NZ Under-20s this year.
SEASON PROSPECTS: There is no Ranfurly Shield to help motivate the Hawke’s Bay players to start this season but the prospects of making the quarter-finals look good indeed. Australian Brock James made a good impression last year as head coach and would have learnt a substantial amount about his team’s capabilities. With another strong squad in place, expect the Magpies to be one of the teams to beat in 2025. Home matches for fans to look
FOURTEENTH IN 2024: Manawatū Turbos finished dead last with just one win in what was a forgettable season. There is undoubtedly plenty of good, young talent coming through the union’s academy but the lack of Super Rugby Pacific depth – that so many other unions have – is a major issue. The courageous 39 –31 defeat to champions Wellington showed what the Turbos were capable of, before injuries decimated the squad.
KEY PLAYERS: Former All Blacks midfield dynamo Ngani Laumape returns home from Japan to add international class to the Turbos. His ability to cut through defensive lines and experience will be a massive boost. Turbos captain and outstanding No 8 Braydon Iose is back from injury, while Māori All Blacks flanker TK Howden is another top
forward to include Wellington, Auckland and Canterbury – with a potential chance of another crack at the Ranfurly Shield against Taranaki.
ranked player in the pack. First-five Brett Cameron and halfback Jordi Viljoen make a classy combination
YOUNG GUNS: The Turbos should field a highly competitive pack. The competition to wear the starting hooker’s jersey is a good sign for the future. Raymond Tuputupu proved his capabilities with limited starts at the Hurricanes, while former NZ Under-20s captain Vernon Bason is another quality hooker and a natural leader. Fullback Sam Coles is a skillful player.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Wesley Clarke, the former Turbos and Black Ferns assistant coach, replaces Mike Rogers as head coach of the Turbos. Clarke’s most recent role was as defence coach at the Kobelco Kobe Steelers, which included Laumape. “I have had great coaching experiences since last being involved with the Turbos and I cannot wait to apply the lessons from those experiences here in the Manawatū,” says Clarke.
TWELFTH IN 2024: It was another tough campaign for the Stags but at least they finished with the same number of wins as Auckland (three). The absolute highlight came in the final home game, with the Stags beating North Harbour 59 –35 after leading by the scarcely believable score of 40–0 after 28 minutes.
KEY PLAYERS: Experienced midfielder Matt Whaanga is top class, while former Taranaki fullback Brad Kooman brings speed, skill and experience to the Stags. Prop Morgan Mitchell has played over 70 NPC games. New player Cian Hurley is an impressive Irish lock, born in South Africa, who has made his presence felt playing for Munster. Crusaders lock Mitch Dunshea and former Otago flanker Sam Fischli are other good recruits. Outstanding Highlanders loose forward Sean Withy will again lead the Stags.
YOUNG GUNS: Two halfbacks with a shared name and equal ability to spark their backline in Connor Collins and Connor McLeod. First-five Byron Smith impressed in 2024. Prop Hunter Fahey and giant lock Alex Yallop add serious grunt to the forward pack. Development players Mika Muliaina and Aukusitino Salanoa are highly rated.
SEASON PROSPECTS: James Wilson is joined by Nathan White in co-coaching roles. White had five years with Toyota Verblitz. The squad features good depth with 26 players having played for the Stags. Southland kick off their season at home against Otago, with the annual Stag Day expected to draw a crowd of 10,000.
NINTH IN 2024: Otago finished with a record of five wins and five losses – the same result as Counties-Manukau and Waikato – but missed out on a play-off spot behind their northern rivals due to bonus points. Otago’s performances during the campaign deserved finals footy but the opening loss in the southern derby to Southland was costly in the end.
KEY PLAYERS: Midfielder Thomas Umaga-Jensen is a threat to any defensive line and his rugged defence is another asset. Lightning-quick fullback Finn Hurley is set to sparkle in the NPC after missing a large chunk of the Highlanders campaign with a knee injury. His ability to turn defence into attack from anywhere on the park is a standout feature of his game. Versatile back and leader Sam Gilbert will join Irish club Connacht at the end of the campaign.
YOUNG GUNS: The drums have been beating for NZ Under-20s halfback and co-captain Dylan Pledger to get his chance in the NPC. He looks set to showcase his electric running game in 2025. Another NZ Under-20 rep in giant young lock Josh Tengblad is highly regarded. Blindside flanker Lucas Casey impressed during his maiden NPC campaign last year and should kick-on again this season.
SEASON PROSPECTS: Local boy Mark Brown takes over as head coach. Last year Otago played some highly entertaining rugby, particularly under the roof at their magnificent stadium. The draw has delivered home games to excite fans against some of the biggest unions in Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury and Wellington.
RODNEY TONGOTEA of Thames Valley is tackled against Mid Canterbury in last year’s Heartland Meads Cup final played at Boyd Park, Te
5th ranked team from pool round v 8th ranked team from pool round
6th ranked team from pool round v 7th ranked team from pool round
Top ranked team from pool round v 4th ranked team from
2nd ranked team from pool round v 3rd ranked team from pool round
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