1995 New Zealand rugby league season
Encyclopedia
The 1995 New Zealand rugby league season was the eighty eighth season of rugby league
that had been played in New Zealand
. The main feature of the year was the second season of the Lion Red Cup
competition that was run by the New Zealand Rugby League
. The North Harbour Sea Eagles
won the Cup by defeating the Auckland Warriors Colts 28-21 in the Grand Final.
with tests being played at Ericsson Stadium
in Auckland and FMG Stadium in Palmerston North. New Zealand won the first match 22-6 before drawing the second 16-all. The Kiwis then played a three match series in Australia, losing all three matches; 8-26, 10-20 and 10-46 respectively. New Zealand was coached by Frank Endacott
and included; Richard Blackmore
, Logan Edwards
, Syd Eru
, Gary Freeman, Daryl Halligan
, Sean Hoppe
, Tony Iro
, Stephen Kearney
, John Lomax
, Jason Lowrie
, Jarrod McCracken
, Gene Ngamu
, Henry Paul
, Quentin Pongia
, Matthew Ridge
, Brent Stuart
, Tony Tatupu
, John Timu
, Tony Tuimavave
, Brendon Tuuta
, Ruben Wiki
and Jason Williams.
New Zealand then headed to England for the World Cup
. They finished first in their pool, defeating Tonga and Papua New Guiena, before losing a Semifinal against Australia 30-20 after extra time. Coached by Frank Endacott
, the World Cup squad included; Richie Barnett
, Richie Blackmore
, Syd Eru
, Gary Freeman, Daryl Halligan
, Sean Hoppe
, Mark Horo
, Kevin Iro
, Tony Iro
, Stacey Jones
, Stephen Kearney
, Tony Kemp
, John Lomax
, Jason Lowrie
, Gene Ngamu
, Hitro Okesene
, Henry Paul
, Quentin Pongia
, captainMatthew Ridge
, Brent Stuart
], John Timu
, Brendon Tuuta
, Ruben Wiki
and Jason Williams.
Before leaving for the World Cup the squad played the New Zealand Residents XIII at Ericsson Stadium
and defeated them 20-4.
The Lion Red Cup XIII played twice, against the Kiwis and against Tongan Residents side
. The squad against Tonga was: Glen Coughlan, Walter Wilson, Aaron Whittaker
, Richard Broughton, Blair Harding
, Brett Rodger, Anthony Swann
, Nigel Vagana
, Willie Swann
, Aaron Lester
, Julian O'Neill
, Logan Swann
, Paul Johnson
, Darryn Avery, Jason Palmada
, Matthew Sturm
and Mark Faumuina
. Gary Kemble
was the coach.
For the game against New Zealand Gerard Stokes
took over as coach after Kemble was appointed as one of the Kiwis assistant coaches. Newcomers to the Residents squad for the match included Willie McLean, Dean Clark
, Phil Bergman
, Patrick Kiely, Aaron Tucker, Heston Patea and Mark Woods
.
The New Zealand Sevens team competed in the World Sevens
. The squad was: Vinnie Weir (c), Peter Edwards
, Solomon Kiri
, Mike Doreen
, Aaron Lester
, Gus Malietoa-Brown, Martin Moana
, Willie Swann
, Hitro Okesene
and Tecofe Kaufa. Despite the Auckland Warriors having first pick of players, New Zealand defeated the Warriors 26-10 during pool play.
The New Zealand Māori
side made a three match internal tour in May–June, winning all three which included a 12-0 defeat of Auckland and a 20-8 defeat of Waikato. The squad was coached by Cameron Bell
and included Darryl Beazley, Dean Clark
, Blair Harding
, Bryan Henare
, Matthew Sturm
, Frank Watene
and Mark Woods
.
The Junior Kangaroos toured New Zealand playing, and defeating, New Zealand Secondary Schools and the Junior Kiwis
. The Junior Kiwis were coached by Stan Martin
and included David Kidwell
, Willie Talau
and Steve Buckingham
.
The New Zealand under 18's Academy Team was coached by Lex Clarke and included Frank Watene
, Monty Betham
and Odell Manuel
. They won the first test 52-10 and the second match 44-0 against the touring British Amateur Rugby League Association
youth side.
The under 17 team featured Monty Betham
and Artie Shead
while the Secondary Schools team featured Phillip Leuluai
, Lesley Vainikolo
and David Solomona
. Henry Perenara
and Wairangi Koopu
both featured in the Under 15 national tournament with Koopu being named the player of the tournament.
The New Zealand Women's Rugby League Federation was registered in February 1995 and the first tour of Australia commenced in June. The Team played seven matches, winning all of them including defeating Australia 18-14 and 14-6.
Matthew Ridge
was the New Zealand Rugby League
player of the year.
28-14 in their first defence of the season.
Auckland
then won the Rugby League Cup
, defeating Canterbury 21-18. This was Canterbury's first loss at home since 1989. Auckland were coached by Dominic Clark and included Leroy Joe
, Mark Faumuina
, Matthew Sturm
and Jerry Seuseu. Canterbury included David Kidwell
, Blair Harding
and Glen Coughlan.
After trailing 15-2 at halftime the North Harbour Sea Eagles came from behind to defeat the Warrior Colts 28-21 in the second Lion Red Cup Grand Final. The match included an eight point try scored by Paki Tuimavave
in the 48th minute. Tuimavave was tackled high by Aaron Lester
while he was grounding the ball. Lester was then sin-binned for back chatting the referee after the incident.
, De La Salle College
, New Plymouth Boys High School and Hillmorton High School all making the semi-finals. St Paul's won the trophy for the second year in a row, defeating New Plymouth 38-16 in the final.
competition for the first time. The team finished tenth, missing the finals by only two points. The Reserve Grade team made the finals but lost in the quarterfinals.
won the Fox Memorial, there tenth, by defeating the Marist Saints
32-0 in the grand final. City Pt Chevalier won the Rukutai Shield as minor premiers.
The Manurewa Marlins
defeated the Waitemata Seagulls to win the Sharman Cup second division. As a result there were promoted to the Fox Memorial for 1996. Otahuhu won the Stormont Shield.
Otahuhu were coached by Trevor McLeod while Marist were coached by Del Hughes. Richmond included Greg Wolfgram, Ben Lythe
and Boycie Nelson
played for Mt Albert and Steve Buckingham
and Lee Tamatoa played for Glenora.
competition, defeating St George 48-22. The Randwick Kingfishers were the minor premiers.
's Pat Smith Challenge Trophy grand final 20-19 over Linwood. Halswell were coached by Phil Prescott and included Glen Coughlan. The two teams had earlier shared the minor premiership.
The West Coast Waro-rakau Hornets won the Thacker Shield by defeating Canterbury's Haswell Hornets 48-16.
Turangawaewae won the minor premiership and the championship in the Waikato Rugby League
competition, defeating Taniwharau Rugby League 20-15 in the grand final.
The Piako Warriors defeated the Tokoroa Pacific Sharks 34-20 in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League
grand final. Piako featured Hare Te Rangi
.
The Waitara Bears won the Taranaki Rugby League
competition 16-14 over the defending champions, the Western Suburbs Tigers. The Bears featured Blair Nickson while the Tigers included Willie Talau
. Kia Ora, coached by Peter Sixtus, defeated Otaki 14-4 in the Manawatu Rugby League
grand final.
Taradale Eagles defeated the Omahu Huia 51-10 in the Hawke's Bay Rugby League grand final while the Kaiti Knights won the Gisborne-East Coast grand final, defeating Uawa 34-26.
The Motueka Tigers won the Nelson-Marlborough grand final, defeating the Blenheim Knights 42-24. Cobden-Kohinoor won the West Coast Rugby League grand final, defeating minor premiers Waro-rakau 12-10. The Waitati Warriors won the Otago grand final 14-10 over the South Pacific Raiders while Bluff defeated He Tauaa 20-14 in the Southland championship match.
Rugby league
Rugby league football, usually called rugby league, is a full contact sport played by two teams of thirteen players on a rectangular grass field. One of the two codes of rugby football, it originated in England in 1895 by a split from Rugby Football Union over paying players...
that had been played in New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
. The main feature of the year was the second season of the Lion Red Cup
Lion Red Cup
The Lion Red Cup was a New Zealand domestic rugby league competition that ran from 1994-1996 sponsored by brewers Lion Nathan. It was created due to the increase in public awareness of domestic rugby league due to the Auckland Warriors being accepted into the Winfield Cup. The competition was a...
competition that was run by the New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League
The New Zealand Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league football in New Zealand. The NZRL was founded on the 25 April 1910 in preparation for a tour of Great Britain that same year....
. The North Harbour Sea Eagles
North Harbour Sea Eagles
The North Harbour Sea Eagles were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented North Harbour in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. For the first two seasons they were coached by Graeme Norton....
won the Cup by defeating the Auckland Warriors Colts 28-21 in the Grand Final.
International competitions
The New Zealand Kiwis played a two test series against FranceFrance national rugby league team
The France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
with tests being played at Ericsson Stadium
Mt Smart Stadium
Mt Smart Stadium, formerly Ericsson Stadium, is a stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. It is the home ground of National Rugby League team, the New Zealand Warriors...
in Auckland and FMG Stadium in Palmerston North. New Zealand won the first match 22-6 before drawing the second 16-all. The Kiwis then played a three match series in Australia, losing all three matches; 8-26, 10-20 and 10-46 respectively. New Zealand was coached by Frank Endacott
Frank Endacott
Frank Morris Endacott, ONZM is a retired rugby league player and coach from New Zealand. His son, Shane, also played rugby league.-Playing career:Endacott played for Addington and Hornby in the Canterbury Rugby League competition...
and included; Richard Blackmore
Richie Blackmore (rugby league)
James Richard "Richie" Blackmore is a rugby league coach and former professional footballer who represented his country. His position of preference was in the centres. He is currently the head coach of the Auckland Vulcans....
, Logan Edwards
Logan Edwards
-Domestic career:Edwards played for the dominating Canterbury provincial side of the early 1990s alongside such talent as Quentin Pongia, Mike Dorreen, Whetu Taewa and coach Frank Endacott. This side continued its success as the Canterbury Cardinals in the 1994 Lion Red Cup...
, Syd Eru
Syd Eru
Sydney Wiremu "Syd" Eru is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s. A Kiwi representative hooker, he played club football for the Auckland Warriors.-Playing career:...
, Gary Freeman, Daryl Halligan
Daryl Halligan
Daryl Halligan is a rugby league football commentator and former professional player. A New Zealand international winger, he was the pre-eminent goal-kicker of his era, retiring as the highest point scorer in Australian premiership history...
, Sean Hoppe
Sean Hoppe
Sean Edward Hoppe is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Early years:...
, Tony Iro
Tony Iro
Tony Roy Iro is the Assistant Coach of the New Zealand Warriors, selector and Assistant Coach of the New Zealand national rugby league team and a former rugby league player...
, Stephen Kearney
Stephen Kearney
Stephen Peter Kearney, ONZM is a professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current head coach of the Parramatta Eels in the NRL as well as the New Zealand national team...
, John Lomax
John Lomax (rugby league)
John Junior Lomax is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country. He is the brother of another international, David Lomax.-Early years:...
, Jason Lowrie
Jason Lowrie
Jason Anthony Lowrie is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who represented his country. He is the grand-nephew of fellow international Sam Lowrie.-Playing career:...
, Jarrod McCracken
Jarrod McCracken
Jarrod McCracken is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s. He is a former captain of the New Zealand national rugby league team and is the son of New Zealand rugby league international, Ken McCracken...
, Gene Ngamu
Gene Ngamu
Gene Robert Ngamu is a New Zealand former rugby league player. He played mainly at Halfback or Five Eighth and is probably best known for his combination with Stacey Jones in the Auckland Warriors and New Zealand Kiwis.-Early years:...
, Henry Paul
Henry Paul
Henry Paul , is a dual code rugby international. Paul has previously represented New Zealand in rugby league and England in rugby union XV's and 7's. He currently holds the world record for the most consecutive kicks on the field.Paul's usual position is loose forward/Lock. He can also operate in...
, Quentin Pongia
Quentin Pongia
Quentin Lee Pongia is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented his country. He is the grandson of fellow Kiwi international Jim Calder and his sister Megan Tahapeehi has also represented the Kiwi Ferns.-Playing career:Originally from the West Coast,...
, Matthew Ridge
Matthew Ridge
Matthew John Ridge is a New Zealand television presenter as well as a former All Black, and rugby league captain for the Manly Sea Eagles, New Zealand Warriors and Kiwis....
, Brent Stuart
Brent Stuart
Brent Clifford Stuart is a rugby league coach and former player who represented his country.-Playing career:A West Coast and Canterbury representative, Stuart spent two years in the Northern Territory in the mid-1980s and represented the Territory against Parramatta. In 1993 he was invited to be...
, Tony Tatupu
Tony Tatupu
Kuripitone "Tony" Tatupu is a former New Zealand rugby league player. Tatupu played at Centre and in the Second Row and represented both New Zealand and Western Samoa.-Playing career:...
, John Timu
John Timu
John Timu is a retired professional rugby league and rugby union footballer of the 1980s and 90s.Timu's position of choice was as a centre...
, Tony Tuimavave
Tony Tuimavave
Antonio Emil Tuimavave is a former professional rugby league player who is the current head coach of the Ponsonby Ponies. He played mainly at prop or at lock forward. He was nicknamed The Chief because he is a chief back in his native Samoa....
, Brendon Tuuta
Brendon Tuuta
Brendon Ephia Tuuta is a New Zealand former rugby league player.Tuuta played a variety of positions including Stand Off, Halfback, Second Row and Lock. He was known as "the baby-faced assassin" and had a reputation as a brawler...
, Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki, ONZM is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative centre-turned-prop forward, he retired with the record for most number of international appearances of any rugby league player in history...
and Jason Williams.
New Zealand then headed to England for the World Cup
1995 Rugby League World Cup
The 1995 Rugby League World Cup was held during October in the United Kingdom. It was the eleventh staging of the Rugby League World Cup and was marketed as the Halifax Centenary World Cup, reflecting the tournament's sponsorship and the fact that 1995 marked the 100th birthday of the sport...
. They finished first in their pool, defeating Tonga and Papua New Guiena, before losing a Semifinal against Australia 30-20 after extra time. Coached by Frank Endacott
Frank Endacott
Frank Morris Endacott, ONZM is a retired rugby league player and coach from New Zealand. His son, Shane, also played rugby league.-Playing career:Endacott played for Addington and Hornby in the Canterbury Rugby League competition...
, the World Cup squad included; Richie Barnett
Richie Barnett
Richie Barnett is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and2000s who represented the New Zealand Kiwis twelve times.-Playing career:...
, Richie Blackmore
Richie Blackmore (rugby league)
James Richard "Richie" Blackmore is a rugby league coach and former professional footballer who represented his country. His position of preference was in the centres. He is currently the head coach of the Auckland Vulcans....
, Syd Eru
Syd Eru
Sydney Wiremu "Syd" Eru is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s. A Kiwi representative hooker, he played club football for the Auckland Warriors.-Playing career:...
, Gary Freeman, Daryl Halligan
Daryl Halligan
Daryl Halligan is a rugby league football commentator and former professional player. A New Zealand international winger, he was the pre-eminent goal-kicker of his era, retiring as the highest point scorer in Australian premiership history...
, Sean Hoppe
Sean Hoppe
Sean Edward Hoppe is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Early years:...
, Mark Horo
Mark Horo
Mark Gregory Horo is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former footballer of the 1980s and 90s. A New Zealand international representative, he played club football in New Zealand for Te Atatu and in Australia for Parramatta and Wests before finishing his career back in Auckland with the Warriors...
, Kevin Iro
Kevin Iro
Kevin Leslie Iro is a former professional rugby league international footballer who has representated both New Zealand and the Cook Islands. In his domestic career, his achievements include playing in the Challenge Cup final for Leeds, Wigan and St. Helens.Iro is the younger brother of New Zealand...
, Tony Iro
Tony Iro
Tony Roy Iro is the Assistant Coach of the New Zealand Warriors, selector and Assistant Coach of the New Zealand national rugby league team and a former rugby league player...
, Stacey Jones
Stacey Jones
Stacey William Jones, ONZM is a professional rugby league footballer, who has been named amongst the greatest New Zealand has ever produced. He currently plays for the Point Chevalier Pirates in the Auckland Rugby League's Phelan Shield...
, Stephen Kearney
Stephen Kearney
Stephen Peter Kearney, ONZM is a professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current head coach of the Parramatta Eels in the NRL as well as the New Zealand national team...
, Tony Kemp
Tony Kemp
Tony Kemp is a former New Zealand rugby league test representative and former coach of the New Zealand Warriors. He currently is a commentator for Māori Televisions coverage of the Auckland Rugby League competition and also serves on the NZRL Board.-Early years:Kemp was born in Whangarei but...
, John Lomax
John Lomax (rugby league)
John Junior Lomax is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country. He is the brother of another international, David Lomax.-Early years:...
, Jason Lowrie
Jason Lowrie
Jason Anthony Lowrie is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who represented his country. He is the grand-nephew of fellow international Sam Lowrie.-Playing career:...
, Gene Ngamu
Gene Ngamu
Gene Robert Ngamu is a New Zealand former rugby league player. He played mainly at Halfback or Five Eighth and is probably best known for his combination with Stacey Jones in the Auckland Warriors and New Zealand Kiwis.-Early years:...
, Hitro Okesene
Hitro Okesene
Hitro Okesene is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented three countries; Western Samoa, American Samoa and New Zealand...
, Henry Paul
Henry Paul
Henry Paul , is a dual code rugby international. Paul has previously represented New Zealand in rugby league and England in rugby union XV's and 7's. He currently holds the world record for the most consecutive kicks on the field.Paul's usual position is loose forward/Lock. He can also operate in...
, Quentin Pongia
Quentin Pongia
Quentin Lee Pongia is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented his country. He is the grandson of fellow Kiwi international Jim Calder and his sister Megan Tahapeehi has also represented the Kiwi Ferns.-Playing career:Originally from the West Coast,...
, captainMatthew Ridge
Matthew Ridge
Matthew John Ridge is a New Zealand television presenter as well as a former All Black, and rugby league captain for the Manly Sea Eagles, New Zealand Warriors and Kiwis....
, Brent Stuart
Brent Stuart
Brent Clifford Stuart is a rugby league coach and former player who represented his country.-Playing career:A West Coast and Canterbury representative, Stuart spent two years in the Northern Territory in the mid-1980s and represented the Territory against Parramatta. In 1993 he was invited to be...
], John Timu
John Timu
John Timu is a retired professional rugby league and rugby union footballer of the 1980s and 90s.Timu's position of choice was as a centre...
, Brendon Tuuta
Brendon Tuuta
Brendon Ephia Tuuta is a New Zealand former rugby league player.Tuuta played a variety of positions including Stand Off, Halfback, Second Row and Lock. He was known as "the baby-faced assassin" and had a reputation as a brawler...
, Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki, ONZM is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative centre-turned-prop forward, he retired with the record for most number of international appearances of any rugby league player in history...
and Jason Williams.
Before leaving for the World Cup the squad played the New Zealand Residents XIII at Ericsson Stadium
Mt Smart Stadium
Mt Smart Stadium, formerly Ericsson Stadium, is a stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. It is the home ground of National Rugby League team, the New Zealand Warriors...
and defeated them 20-4.
The Lion Red Cup XIII played twice, against the Kiwis and against Tongan Residents side
Tonga national rugby league team
The Tonga national rugby league team is a national sporting side, representing Tonga in rugby league football. Rugby league is a popular sport in Tonga, and the national team has become one of the best performed nations in the world...
. The squad against Tonga was: Glen Coughlan, Walter Wilson, Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker is a former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand international representative halfback, he played club football in Australia, England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
, Richard Broughton, Blair Harding
Blair Harding
Blair Edward Harding was a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:Harding played for Papanui in the Canterbury Rugby League competition. He played for Canterbury in 1993, being part of the side that defeated Auckland to win the National Provincial...
, Brett Rodger, Anthony Swann
Anthony Swann
Anthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:...
, Nigel Vagana
Nigel Vagana
Nigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19...
, Willie Swann
Willie Swann
Willie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993...
, Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Hooker.His brother, Stuart, played for Wigan.-New Zealand:A Junior Kiwi in 1992, Lester went on to play for the New Zealand Residents in 1994...
, Julian O'Neill
Julian O'Neill (New Zealand)
Julian O'Neill is a former professional rugby league footballer who spent most of his career playing in Super League...
, Logan Swann
Logan Swann
Logan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:...
, Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson (New Zealand)
Paul Frederick Johnson is a former rugby league player who represented his country.-Playing career:A Papanui player in the Canterbury Rugby League competition, Johnson played for the Canterbury side that bet Auckland in 1993, coming off the bench in the Provincial grand final.Johnson was then...
, Darryn Avery, Jason Palmada
Jason Palmada
Jason Palmada is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer.-Playing career:A West Coast representative before moving to Auckland, Palmada was also a Junior Kiwi....
, Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in New Zealand and in the English Super League. In 2010 and 2011 he was part of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:Sturm was a Glenora Bears junior...
and Mark Faumuina
Mark Faumuina
Mark Faumuina is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:An Otahuhu Leopards junior, Faumuina represented Auckland, playing for the Under 17's in 1987 and the under 18's in 1991....
. Gary Kemble
Gary Kemble
Gary Edward Kemble is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. He has both played and coached the New Zealand Kiwis. He is the current head coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League.-Playing career:...
was the coach.
For the game against New Zealand Gerard Stokes
Gerard Stokes
Gerard James Stokes is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who represented his country. He is currently the coach of the Serbian national side...
took over as coach after Kemble was appointed as one of the Kiwis assistant coaches. Newcomers to the Residents squad for the match included Willie McLean, Dean Clark
Dean Clark (rugby league)
Dean Clark is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former footballer who represented his country between 1989 and 1992. He is the current coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
, Phil Bergman
Phil Bergman
Phil Bergman is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand Māori and played professionally for Paris Saint-Germain in the Super League.-Playing career:...
, Patrick Kiely, Aaron Tucker, Heston Patea and Mark Woods
Mark Woods (rugby league)
Mark Anthony Woods is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country in 1992.-Playing career:Woods is a Ngongotaha Chiefs junior in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League district. He represented the Bay of Plenty and also played for the New Zealand Māori side, including at the 1986...
.
The New Zealand Sevens team competed in the World Sevens
Rugby League World Sevens
The Rugby League World Sevens, usually referred to as the World Sevens and sometimes as the World Cup Sevens, were a pre-season rugby league sevens tournament made up over the years primarily of New South Wales Rugby League , Australian Rugby League and mostly recently National Rugby League ...
. The squad was: Vinnie Weir (c), Peter Edwards
Peter Edwards (rugby league)
Peter Edwards is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:A product of Manawatu, Edwards played for the Upper Hutt Tigers in the Wellington Rugby League and was part of the side that won the Appleton Shield in 1993...
, Solomon Kiri
Solomon Kiri
Solomon Kiri is a former professional rugby league player who played in the late 1990s for the Adelaide Rams and the Western Reds.-New Zealand:...
, Mike Doreen
Mike Doreen
Mike Dorreen is a former professional rugby league player who represented New Zealand. His position of preference was at centre.-New Zealand:...
, Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Hooker.His brother, Stuart, played for Wigan.-New Zealand:A Junior Kiwi in 1992, Lester went on to play for the New Zealand Residents in 1994...
, Gus Malietoa-Brown, Martin Moana
Martin Moana
Martin Moana is a former professional rugby league footballer who was an international representative and played club football in England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
, Willie Swann
Willie Swann
Willie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993...
, Hitro Okesene
Hitro Okesene
Hitro Okesene is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented three countries; Western Samoa, American Samoa and New Zealand...
and Tecofe Kaufa. Despite the Auckland Warriors having first pick of players, New Zealand defeated the Warriors 26-10 during pool play.
The New Zealand Māori
New Zealand Maori rugby league team
-See also:* New Zealand national rugby league team* New Zealand Māori rugby union team* New Zealand Māori cricket team-External links:* Google Books...
side made a three match internal tour in May–June, winning all three which included a 12-0 defeat of Auckland and a 20-8 defeat of Waikato. The squad was coached by Cameron Bell
Cameron Bell (rugby league)
Cameron Bell is a New Zealand rugby league coach. He is a member of the famous Bell rugby league family that includes George, Ian, Dean and Cathy and Clayton Friend.-Coaching career:...
and included Darryl Beazley, Dean Clark
Dean Clark (rugby league)
Dean Clark is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former footballer who represented his country between 1989 and 1992. He is the current coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
, Blair Harding
Blair Harding
Blair Edward Harding was a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:Harding played for Papanui in the Canterbury Rugby League competition. He played for Canterbury in 1993, being part of the side that defeated Auckland to win the National Provincial...
, Bryan Henare
Bryan Henare
Bryan Henare is a former rugby league player. Henare was usually a hooker or a second-rower.-Playing career:...
, Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in New Zealand and in the English Super League. In 2010 and 2011 he was part of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:Sturm was a Glenora Bears junior...
, Frank Watene
Frank Watene
Frank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:...
and Mark Woods
Mark Woods (rugby league)
Mark Anthony Woods is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country in 1992.-Playing career:Woods is a Ngongotaha Chiefs junior in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League district. He represented the Bay of Plenty and also played for the New Zealand Māori side, including at the 1986...
.
The Junior Kangaroos toured New Zealand playing, and defeating, New Zealand Secondary Schools and the Junior Kiwis
Junior Kiwis
The Junior Kiwis side represents New Zealand in the sport of rugby league. They are commonly known as the Junior Kiwis, after the native bird of that name. They are not necessarily an age grade side, but the second national team behind the New Zealand national rugby league team. They are...
. The Junior Kiwis were coached by Stan Martin
Stan Martin (rugby league)
Stan Martin is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who coached the Cook Islands in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:A Richmond Bulldogs player in the Auckland Rugby League competition, Martin won the Rothville Trophy in 1980 as the Premier One player of the year...
and included David Kidwell
David Kidwell
David Kidwell is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Kidwell was a member of the 2005 Tri-Nations and 2008 World Cup winning New Zealand teams, which defeated Australia in both competitions' respective finals...
, Willie Talau
Willie Talau
Viliamu Talau is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for English club Salford City Reds of Super League...
and Steve Buckingham
Steve Buckingham
Steven or Steve Buckingham may refer to:*Steve Buckingham , retired New Zealand rugby league player*Steve Buckingham , record producer...
.
The New Zealand under 18's Academy Team was coached by Lex Clarke and included Frank Watene
Frank Watene
Frank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:...
, Monty Betham
Monty Betham
Monty Betham is a professional boxer and former rugby league footballer and junior world karate champion...
and Odell Manuel
Odell Manuel
Odell Manuel is a former New Zealand rugby league player and almost the Australian Powerlifting champion.-Early years:Growing up in Auckland, Manuel was a Otahuhu Leopards junior and in 1997 was selected for the Junior Kiwis.-Rugby league career:...
. They won the first test 52-10 and the second match 44-0 against the touring British Amateur Rugby League Association
British Amateur Rugby League Association
The British Amateur Rugby League Association is the governing body for social and recreational rugby league in the United Kingdom...
youth side.
The under 17 team featured Monty Betham
Monty Betham
Monty Betham is a professional boxer and former rugby league footballer and junior world karate champion...
and Artie Shead
Artie Shead
Artie Shead is a New Zealand born French rugby league player for the Pia Donkeys in the Elite One Championship he was previously with the Villeneuve Leopards. His position is at prop or centre...
while the Secondary Schools team featured Phillip Leuluai
Phillip Leuluai
Phillip Leuluai is a New Zealand rugby league player of Samoan heritage and descent who currently plays for the Salford City Reds in the Super League competition...
, Lesley Vainikolo
Lesley Vainikolo
Lesley Vainikolo is a dual code professional rugby football player who currently plays for Gloucester Rugby. He plays on the wing....
and David Solomona
David Solomona
David Joseph Solomona is a professional rugby league footballer for the Warrington Wolves of Europe's Super League. He is regularly amongst the top off-loaders in the competition. Solomona also attended St...
. Henry Perenara
Henry Perenara
Henry Edward Perenara is a New Zealand rugby league referee and former professional player who represented his country. His position of choice is at Lock though he can also play in the Second Row...
and Wairangi Koopu
Wairangi Koopu
Wairangi Koopu is a professional rugby league player for the Pt Chev Pirates in New Zealand. Koopu primarily plays in the second row, although he also can play in the centres.-Early years:...
both featured in the Under 15 national tournament with Koopu being named the player of the tournament.
The New Zealand Women's Rugby League Federation was registered in February 1995 and the first tour of Australia commenced in June. The Team played seven matches, winning all of them including defeating Australia 18-14 and 14-6.
Matthew Ridge
Matthew Ridge
Matthew John Ridge is a New Zealand television presenter as well as a former All Black, and rugby league captain for the Manly Sea Eagles, New Zealand Warriors and Kiwis....
was the New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League
The New Zealand Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league football in New Zealand. The NZRL was founded on the 25 April 1910 in preparation for a tour of Great Britain that same year....
player of the year.
Rugby League Cup
Canterbury defeated the West CoastWest Coast rugby league team
The West Coast rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the West Coast Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Chargers.-History:...
28-14 in their first defence of the season.
Auckland
Auckland rugby league team
The Auckland rugby league team is the team which traditionally represents all of the clubs which play in the Auckland Rugby League competition. The Auckland Rugby League team has traditionally been a powerhouse of New Zealand domestic rugby league...
then won the Rugby League Cup
Rugby League Cup
The Rugby League Cup is a New Zealand rugby league trophy that is currently contested between districts on a challenge basis. The trophy was originally known as the Northern Union Cup...
, defeating Canterbury 21-18. This was Canterbury's first loss at home since 1989. Auckland were coached by Dominic Clark and included Leroy Joe
Leroy Joe
Leroy Joe is a rugby league footballer who previously played half back for Whitehaven in England, National League One League Division. He is of Cook Island Heritage...
, Mark Faumuina
Mark Faumuina
Mark Faumuina is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:An Otahuhu Leopards junior, Faumuina represented Auckland, playing for the Under 17's in 1987 and the under 18's in 1991....
, Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm
Matthew Sturm is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in New Zealand and in the English Super League. In 2010 and 2011 he was part of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:Sturm was a Glenora Bears junior...
and Jerry Seuseu. Canterbury included David Kidwell
David Kidwell
David Kidwell is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Kidwell was a member of the 2005 Tri-Nations and 2008 World Cup winning New Zealand teams, which defeated Australia in both competitions' respective finals...
, Blair Harding
Blair Harding
Blair Edward Harding was a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:Harding played for Papanui in the Canterbury Rugby League competition. He played for Canterbury in 1993, being part of the side that defeated Auckland to win the National Provincial...
and Glen Coughlan.
The Teams
- The North Harbour Sea EaglesNorth Harbour Sea EaglesThe North Harbour Sea Eagles were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented North Harbour in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. For the first two seasons they were coached by Graeme Norton....
successfully defended their title despite losing 21 players from the 1994 season. Again coached by Graeme NortonGraeme NortonGraeme Norton is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer and coach.-Early years:Norton first coached the Northcote Tigers, who he led to two Fox Memorial grand final wins and a National Club knockout championship....
, North Harbour also defeated the touring FrenchFrance national rugby league teamThe France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
side 40-10 in a mid-week match. The squad included Latham TawhaiLatham TawhaiLatham Tawhai is a rugby league coach and former player from New Zealand. He has also represented his country in softball.-Playing career:...
, captain Don StewartDon Stewart (rugby league)Donald Stewart is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:A Northcote Tigers junior, Stewart began his career at Centre before moving into the forward pack...
, Jason PalmadaJason PalmadaJason Palmada is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer.-Playing career:A West Coast representative before moving to Auckland, Palmada was also a Junior Kiwi....
, Mike SetefanoMike SetefanoMike Setefano is a former rugby league player. He was a Samoan international and played at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup.-Playing career:Setefano played for the Auckland City Vulcans in the 1994 Lion Red Cup and toured New Zealand with Western Samoa in 1994. In 1995 he joined the North Harbour...
and Paki TuimavavePaki TuimavavePaki Tuimavave is a former rugby league player who represented Samoa. He is the brother of fellow internationals Tony and Paddy Tuimavave.-Playing career:...
. - The Waitakere City RaidersWaitakere City RaidersThe Waitakere City Raiders were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Waitakere City in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996.-Notable players:...
again finished last of the four Auckland based sides in the competition. However they were competitive for most of the season before losing their last five games and missing the playoffs. They were again coached by Ron O'ReganRon O'ReganRonald Phillip O'Regan is a New Zealand former rugby league player and coach who represented his country between 1983 and 1986. His nephew, Daniel, played for the New Zealand Warriors.-Playing career:...
and the squad included Ben LytheBen LytheBen Lythe is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was at Halfback. He was also a noted goalkicker.-Early years:...
, Willie McLean, Cliff BeverleyCliff BeverleyCliff Beverley is a former professional rugby league player. His preferred position was Five Eighth, although he was somewhat of a utility and spent considerable time at fullback.-Early years:...
, Brian JellickBrian JellickBrian Andrew Jellick is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. His position of preference was on the .-Playing career:...
and Fred Robards. - The Auckland Warriors Colts replaced the Auckland City VulcansAuckland City VulcansFor the current NSW Cup team see Auckland VulcansThe Auckland City Vulcans were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Auckland City in the 1994 Lion Red Cup...
in the 1995 competition. This led to a reshuffle of the other Auckland franchises boundaries. The Warrior Colts used the facilities of the professional team at Ericsson StadiumMt Smart StadiumMt Smart Stadium, formerly Ericsson Stadium, is a stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. It is the home ground of National Rugby League team, the New Zealand Warriors...
. Coached by John Ackland the Colts won the minor premiership before slipping up in the Grand Final. Colts players included Phil BergmanPhil BergmanPhil Bergman is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand Māori and played professionally for Paris Saint-Germain in the Super League.-Playing career:...
, Steve BuckinghamSteve Buckingham (rugby league)Steve Buckingham is a New Zealand rugby league coach and player. His position of preference is at Halfback. He is currently the head coach of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:...
, David FatialofaDavid FatialofaDavid Fatialofa is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally in England for Whitehaven.-Playing career:Fatialofa was an Auckland Warriors junior and played in the 1995 Lion Red Cup final...
, Bryan HenareBryan HenareBryan Henare is a former rugby league player. Henare was usually a hooker or a second-rower.-Playing career:...
, Solomon KiriSolomon KiriSolomon Kiri is a former professional rugby league player who played in the late 1990s for the Adelaide Rams and the Western Reds.-New Zealand:...
, Aaron LesterAaron LesterAaron Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Hooker.His brother, Stuart, played for Wigan.-New Zealand:A Junior Kiwi in 1992, Lester went on to play for the New Zealand Residents in 1994...
, Des MaeaDes MaeaDes Maea is a former rugby league player.He played for Sheffield in 1993 and in 1994 returned to New Zealand to play for the Counties Manukau Heroes in the Lion Red Cup where he played in 21 matches, scoring 9 tries for the club...
, Brady MalamBrady MalamBrady Malam is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His preferred position was at Prop.-Early years:A junior from the Glenora club, Malam played for Auckland at Hooker before bulking up and moving to Prop in his late teens. He played for the Junior Kiwis in 1992 and 1993...
, Doc MurrayDoc MurrayDavid "Doc" Murray is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. His position of preference was at Fullback.-New Zealand career:...
, Boycie NelsonBoycie NelsonBoycie Nelson is a New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Glenora Bears. His position of preference is in the Centres and he also kicks goals.-New Zealand:...
, Meti NoovaoMeti NoovaoMeti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker....
, Julian O'NeillJulian O'Neill (New Zealand)Julian O'Neill is a former professional rugby league footballer who spent most of his career playing in Super League...
, Paul RauhihiPaul RauhihiPaul Rauhihi is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Rauhihi played in both the National Rugby League and Super League at prop forward.-New Zealand Career:...
, Paul StaladiPaul StaladiPaul Staladi is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was on the Wing.-Early career:A Mt Albert Lions junior in the Auckland competition, Staladi was signed by the new Auckland Warriors franchise. He stood out playing for the Warriors Colts team in the 1995 Lion Red...
, Anthony SwannAnthony SwannAnthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:...
, Logan SwannLogan SwannLogan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:...
, Willie SwannWillie SwannWillie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993...
, Nigel VaganaNigel VaganaNigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19...
and Frank WateneFrank WateneFrank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:...
. - The Counties Manukau Heroes were coached by Stan MartinStan Martin (rugby league)Stan Martin is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who coached the Cook Islands in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:A Richmond Bulldogs player in the Auckland Rugby League competition, Martin won the Rothville Trophy in 1980 as the Premier One player of the year...
. They again finished in the top three, despite having only six players return from the 1994 squad. Players included Dean ClarkDean Clark (rugby league)Dean Clark is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former footballer who represented his country between 1989 and 1992. He is the current coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
, Mark FaumuinaMark FaumuinaMark Faumuina is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:An Otahuhu Leopards junior, Faumuina represented Auckland, playing for the Under 17's in 1987 and the under 18's in 1991....
, Leroy JoeLeroy JoeLeroy Joe is a rugby league footballer who previously played half back for Whitehaven in England, National League One League Division. He is of Cook Island Heritage...
, Esau MannEsau MannEsau Mann is a Tongan former rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup. He is a cousin of fellow internationals Duane and George Mann.-Playing career:...
, Matthew SturmMatthew SturmMatthew Sturm is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in New Zealand and in the English Super League. In 2010 and 2011 he was part of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:Sturm was a Glenora Bears junior...
, Vinnie Weir and Jerry Seuseu. - The Waikato CougarsWaikato CougarsThe Waikato rugby league team is a New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Waikato Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They competed in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996, the Super League Challenge Cup in 1997 and the Bartercard Premiership in 2008 and 2009...
were again coached by Joe Gwynne and again finished fourth. The team also played FranceFrance national rugby league teamThe France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
, losing 2-24. The squad included Tukere BarlowTukere BarlowTukere Barlow is a former New Zealand rugby league player who played for Warrington and represented the New Zealand Māori.-Playing career:In 1993 Barlow played for the Hamilton City Tigers, who won the Waikato Rugby League grand final. He was also selected to play for Waikato...
, Darryl Beazley, Tama Hohaia, Butch Tua, captain Aaron Tucker, Tony Waikato and former Kiwi Mark WoodsMark Woods (rugby league)Mark Anthony Woods is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country in 1992.-Playing career:Woods is a Ngongotaha Chiefs junior in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League district. He represented the Bay of Plenty and also played for the New Zealand Māori side, including at the 1986...
. - The Bay of Plenty StagsBay of Plenty StagsThe Bay of Plenty rugby league team are a New Zealand rugby league team who represents the Bay of Plenty Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions...
again finished bottom of the table. Coach Neil Joyce resigned halfway through the season and he was replaced by former Kiwi coach Tony GordonTony GordonAnthony "Tony" Gordon was a fictional character in the itv soap opera Coronation Street, portrayed by actor Gray O'Brien. The character first appeared on screen on 16 September 2007 and making his final appearance on 9 June 2010 after deciding to sacrifice himself in the Underworld fire. He is a...
and Lawrence Brydon. - The Taranaki Rockets concentrated on local talent, a tactic which did not play off as the team finished a disappointing 11th. Coach Allan Marshall retired at the end of the season. The squad included Blair Nickson and Willie TalauWillie TalauViliamu Talau is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for English club Salford City Reds of Super League...
. - the Hawkes Bay UnicornsHawkes Bay UnicornsThe Hawke's Bay rugby league team are a New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Hawke's Bay Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They are nicknamed the Unicorns...
were coached by Gary KembleGary KembleGary Edward Kemble is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. He has both played and coached the New Zealand Kiwis. He is the current head coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League.-Playing career:...
, who also coached the New Zealand Residents and was a New Zealand Kiwis assistant coach. The squad included Richard Broughton and captain Alan Mason. - The Hutt Valley HawksHutt Valley FirehawksThe Hutt Valley Firehawks were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Hutt Valley in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. In 1995 there nickname was shortened to just "Hawks" and 1996 they were known as the Hutt Valley Dolphins....
were coached by Tyrone Paikea, Kara Puketapu and Mike Edmonds throughout the season. The team included Zane ClarkZane Clark-Early years:A product of the Randwick Kingfishers club in the Wellington local competition, Clark made the Junior Kiwis in 1994 while played for the Hutt Valley Firehawks in the Lion Red Cup.-Warriors:...
, Denvour JohnstonDenvour JohnstonDenvour Francis Johnston is a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:Johnston played for the Randwick Kingfishers club in the Wellington Rugby League competition...
, Arnold Lomax and Yogi Rogers. - The Wellington City DukesWellington City DukesThe Wellington City Dukes were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Wellington City in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. In 1997 one of the two Wellington Rugby League sides that competed in the Super League Challenge Cup was also called the Dukes.-Season Results:...
were coached by Ken Laban and based largely around his 1994 champion Marist Northern club side. The team included Earl Va'aEarl Va'aEarl Va'a is a Samoan rugby union footballer. He plays as a fly-half.-Rugby league:Va'a started his career playing rugby league for the Wainuiomata Lions in New Zealand and in 1994 and 1995 he represented the Wellington City Dukes in the Lion Red Cup...
, who won the Best and Fairest award, and captain George Fa'alogo. - The Christchurch City ShinersChristchurch City ShinersThe Christchurch City Shiners were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Christchurch in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. They were administered by the Canterbury Rugby League.Feeder clubs included Addington, Sydenham and Linwood.-Players:...
were coached by Lex Clarke and included former Kiwi Blair HardingBlair HardingBlair Edward Harding was a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country in 1993.-Playing career:Harding played for Papanui in the Canterbury Rugby League competition. He played for Canterbury in 1993, being part of the side that defeated Auckland to win the National Provincial...
, Shane EndacottShane EndacottShane Endacott is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. His position of preference was Five Eighth, however he was also often used at lock, hooker or in the centres...
and Paul Bergman. The team was greatly improved from the 1994 season and only just missed out on the finals. - The Canterbury Country CardinalsCanterbury Country CardinalsThe Canterbury Country Cardinals were a New Zealand rugby league club that represented Canterbury in the Lion Red Cup from 1994 to 1996. They were administered by the Canterbury Rugby League....
were again coached by Ged Stokes but could not repeat there 1994 result of finishing third after injuries and player transfers altered the squad. The squad included Glen Coughlan, Marty CrequerMarty CrequerMartin Paul Crequer was a New Zealand rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Playing career:A Hornby junior in the Canterbury competition, Crequer was a Schoolboy Kiwi in 1979 and a Junior Kiwi in 1983...
, Paul JohnsonPaul Johnson (New Zealand)Paul Frederick Johnson is a former rugby league player who represented his country.-Playing career:A Papanui player in the Canterbury Rugby League competition, Johnson played for the Canterbury side that bet Auckland in 1993, coming off the bench in the Provincial grand final.Johnson was then...
, David KidwellDavid KidwellDavid Kidwell is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Kidwell was a member of the 2005 Tri-Nations and 2008 World Cup winning New Zealand teams, which defeated Australia in both competitions' respective finals...
and Aaron WhittakerAaron WhittakerAaron Whittaker is a former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand international representative halfback, he played club football in Australia, England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
.
Season Standings
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland Colts | 22 | 18 | 0 | 4 | 675 | 356 | 319 | 36 |
| Counties Manukau | 22 | 14 | 1 | 7 | 573 | 413 | 160 | 29 |
| North Harbour | 22 | 13 | 1 | 8 | 601 | 379 | 222 | 27 |
| Waikato | 22 | 13 | 1 | 8 | 471 | 379 | 92 | 27 |
| Hutt Valley | 22 | 13 | 0 | 9 | 544 | 443 | 101 | 26 |
| Christchurch City | 22 | 12 | 1 | 9 | 455 | 419 | 36 | 25 |
| Wellington City | 22 | 10 | 2 | 10 | 440 | 514 | ||
| 22 | ||||||||
| Waitakere City | 22 | 10 | 1 | 11 | 430 | 386 | 44 | 21 |
| Hawkes Bay | 22 | 10 | 1 | 11 | 467 | 486 | ||
| 21 | ||||||||
| Canterbury | 22 | 9 | 2 | 11 | 446 | 448 | ||
| 20 | ||||||||
| Taranaki | 22 | 2 | 1 | 19 | 339 | 770 | ||
| 5 | ||||||||
| Bay of Plenty | 22 | 2 | 1 | 19 | 304 | 752 | ||
| 5 | ||||||||
The Playoffs
| Match | Winner | Loser | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elimination Play-off | Waikato Cougars | 28 | Hutt Valley Unicorns | 14 |
| Preliminary Semifinal | Counties Manukau Heroes | 30 | North Harbour Sea Eagles | 16 |
| Elimination Semifinal | North Harbour Sea Eagles | 32 | Waikato Cougars | 16 |
| Qualification Semifinal | Auckland Warriors Colts | 15 | Counties Manukau Heroes | 14 |
| Preliminary Final | North Harbour Sea Eagles | 28 | Counties Manukau Heroes | 19 |
Grand Final
| North Harbour | Position | Auckland Colts |
|---|---|---|
| Quinten Dane | FB | Nigel Vagana Nigel Vagana Nigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19... |
| Auvae Tapuai | WG | Paul Staladi Paul Staladi Paul Staladi is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was on the Wing.-Early career:A Mt Albert Lions junior in the Auckland competition, Staladi was signed by the new Auckland Warriors franchise. He stood out playing for the Warriors Colts team in the 1995 Lion Red... |
| Paki Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave is a former rugby league player who represented Samoa. He is the brother of fellow internationals Tony and Paddy Tuimavave.-Playing career:... |
CE | Stuart Lester Stuart Lester Stuart Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player who played professionally for Wigan.His brother, Aaron, played professionally for the Auckland Warriors and Whitehaven.-Playing career:... |
| Jason Kaulima | CE | Anthony Swann Anthony Swann Anthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:... |
| Steve Barry | WG | Tacofe Kalauta |
| Aleki Maea | FE | Meti Noovao Meti Noovao Meti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker.... (C) |
| Latham Tawhai Latham Tawhai Latham Tawhai is a rugby league coach and former player from New Zealand. He has also represented his country in softball.-Playing career:... |
HB | Willie Swann Willie Swann Willie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993... |
| Donald Stewart Don Stewart (rugby league) Donald Stewart is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:A Northcote Tigers junior, Stewart began his career at Centre before moving into the forward pack... (C) |
PR | Dallas Mead Dallas Mead Dallas Mead is a New Zealand former professional wrestler and rugby league player who played professionally for Warrington.-Playing career:In 1995 Mead was signed by the new Auckland Warriors franchise and played for the Warriors Colts in the Lion Red Cup... |
| Sean Wilson | HK | Aaron Lester Aaron Lester Aaron Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Hooker.His brother, Stuart, played for Wigan.-New Zealand:A Junior Kiwi in 1992, Lester went on to play for the New Zealand Residents in 1994... |
| Darren Kohlhase | PR | David Fatialofa David Fatialofa David Fatialofa is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally in England for Whitehaven.-Playing career:Fatialofa was an Auckland Warriors junior and played in the 1995 Lion Red Cup final... |
| Mike Setefano Mike Setefano Mike Setefano is a former rugby league player. He was a Samoan international and played at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup.-Playing career:Setefano played for the Auckland City Vulcans in the 1994 Lion Red Cup and toured New Zealand with Western Samoa in 1994. In 1995 he joined the North Harbour... |
SR | Bryan Henare Bryan Henare Bryan Henare is a former rugby league player. Henare was usually a hooker or a second-rower.-Playing career:... |
| Keniti Asiata | SR | Frank Watene Frank Watene Frank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:... |
| Jason Palmada Jason Palmada Jason Palmada is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer.-Playing career:A West Coast representative before moving to Auckland, Palmada was also a Junior Kiwi.... |
LK | Logan Swann Logan Swann Logan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:... |
| Frank Fuimaono | Bench | Charlie Kennedy |
| Cory Jamieson | Bench | Des Maea Des Maea Des Maea is a former rugby league player.He played for Sheffield in 1993 and in 1994 returned to New Zealand to play for the Counties Manukau Heroes in the Lion Red Cup where he played in 21 matches, scoring 9 tries for the club... |
| Lafaelle Filipo | Bench | Druce Nilsen |
| Brent Snooks | Bench | Steve Buckingham Steve Buckingham (rugby league) Steve Buckingham is a New Zealand rugby league coach and player. His position of preference is at Halfback. He is currently the head coach of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:... |
| Graeme Norton Graeme Norton Graeme Norton is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer and coach.-Early years:Norton first coached the Northcote Tigers, who he led to two Fox Memorial grand final wins and a National Club knockout championship.... |
Coach | John Ackland |
After trailing 15-2 at halftime the North Harbour Sea Eagles came from behind to defeat the Warrior Colts 28-21 in the second Lion Red Cup Grand Final. The match included an eight point try scored by Paki Tuimavave
Paki Tuimavave
Paki Tuimavave is a former rugby league player who represented Samoa. He is the brother of fellow internationals Tony and Paddy Tuimavave.-Playing career:...
in the 48th minute. Tuimavave was tackled high by Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester
Aaron Lester is a New Zealand former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Hooker.His brother, Stuart, played for Wigan.-New Zealand:A Junior Kiwi in 1992, Lester went on to play for the New Zealand Residents in 1994...
while he was grounding the ball. Lester was then sin-binned for back chatting the referee after the incident.
| Team | Halftime | Total |
|---|---|---|
| North Harbour Sea Eagles | 2 | 28 |
| Auckland Warriors Colts | 15 | 21 |
| Tries (North Harbour) | 1: F. Fuimaono, S. Wilson, P. Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave is a former rugby league player who represented Samoa. He is the brother of fellow internationals Tony and Paddy Tuimavave.-Playing career:... , J. Palmada |
|---|---|
| Tries (Auckland Colts) | 1: N.Vagana Nigel Vagana Nigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19... , B.Henare, M.Noovao Meti Noovao Meti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker.... , W.Swann Willie Swann Willie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993... |
| Goals (North Harbour) | 6: Q.Dane |
| Goals (Auckland Colts) | 1: S.Buckingham, M.Noovao Meti Noovao Meti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker.... |
| Field Goals Goals (Auckland Colts) | 1: M.Noovao Meti Noovao Meti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker.... |
| Date | 16 September |
| Referee | Dennis Hale Dennis Hale (rugby league) -Early years:Hale began his involvement with rugby league as a player with the North Shore club. He would go on to be involved in coaching and administration with the club, before becoming a referee in 1976.-Refereeing career:... |
| Venue | Ericsson Stadium Mt Smart Stadium Mt Smart Stadium, formerly Ericsson Stadium, is a stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. It is the home ground of National Rugby League team, the New Zealand Warriors... |
| Broadcast | TVNZ |
Awards
- Best and Fairest: Earl Va'aEarl Va'aEarl Va'a is a Samoan rugby union footballer. He plays as a fly-half.-Rugby league:Va'a started his career playing rugby league for the Wainuiomata Lions in New Zealand and in 1994 and 1995 he represented the Wellington City Dukes in the Lion Red Cup...
(Wellington City) - Coach of the Year: Graeme NortonGraeme NortonGraeme Norton is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer and coach.-Early years:Norton first coached the Northcote Tigers, who he led to two Fox Memorial grand final wins and a National Club knockout championship....
(North Harbour) - Captain of the Year: Don StewartDon Stewart (rugby league)Donald Stewart is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:A Northcote Tigers junior, Stewart began his career at Centre before moving into the forward pack...
(North Harbour) - Referee of the Year: Dennis HaleDennis Hale (rugby league)-Early years:Hale began his involvement with rugby league as a player with the North Shore club. He would go on to be involved in coaching and administration with the club, before becoming a referee in 1976.-Refereeing career:...
Top Try Scorers- 23 Shane Edwards (Counties-Manukau)
- 19 Anthony SwannAnthony SwannAnthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:...
(Warriors) - 18 Richard Broughton (Hawkes Bay)
- 16 Don StewartDon Stewart (rugby league)Donald Stewart is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:A Northcote Tigers junior, Stewart began his career at Centre before moving into the forward pack...
(North Harbour) - 15 Heston Patea (Hutt Valley)
- 14 Aaron Tucker (Waikato)
- 14 Paul StaladiPaul StaladiPaul Staladi is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was on the Wing.-Early career:A Mt Albert Lions junior in the Auckland competition, Staladi was signed by the new Auckland Warriors franchise. He stood out playing for the Warriors Colts team in the 1995 Lion Red...
(Warriors) - 13 Steve Ekepati (Counties-Manukau)
- 13 Paki TuimavavePaki TuimavavePaki Tuimavave is a former rugby league player who represented Samoa. He is the brother of fellow internationals Tony and Paddy Tuimavave.-Playing career:...
(North Harbour) - 13 Darryl Rolleston (Wellington City)
- 13 Steve Barry (North Harbour)
Top Point Scorers- 182 Glen Coughlan (Canterbury Country)
- 164 Blair Nickson (Taranaki)
- 160 Greg Bright (Waikato)
- 150 Earl Va'aEarl Va'aEarl Va'a is a Samoan rugby union footballer. He plays as a fly-half.-Rugby league:Va'a started his career playing rugby league for the Wainuiomata Lions in New Zealand and in 1994 and 1995 he represented the Wellington City Dukes in the Lion Red Cup...
(Wellington City) - 136 Paul Howell (Hutt Valley)
- 112 Latham TawhaiLatham TawhaiLatham Tawhai is a rugby league coach and former player from New Zealand. He has also represented his country in softball.-Playing career:...
(North Harbour) - 96 Meti NoovaoMeti NoovaoMeti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker....
(Warriors) - 96 Te Manawa Loza (Counties-Manukau)
- 92 Jamie Stevens (Hawkes Bay)
- 92 Shane Edwards (Counties-Manukau)
- 76 Anthony SwannAnthony SwannAnthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:...
(Warriors)
National Provincial Championship
The NPC was conducted on a invitational basis, with all districts being invited to participate. Because Wellington and Canterbury also had teams in the Lion Red Cup, these sides were selected from only playing in their local club competitions.Northern Division
This was the first time Coastline had competed as an independent district and they recorded their first ever win when they defeated Gisborne-East Coast 41-32. Gisborne-East Coast also defeated Northland for the first time ever.| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wellington | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 154 | 82 | 8 |
| Northland | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 145 | 105 | 4 |
| Manawatu | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 98 | 99 | 4 |
| Gisborne-East Coast | 4 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 115 | 157 | 2 |
| Coastline Coastline rugby league team The Coastline rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Coastline Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Mariners.-History:... |
4 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 99 | 168 | 2 |
Southern Division
This was the first time Nelson-Marlborough had competed as an independent district. Otago recorded their first win over Canterbury in 35 years.| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast West Coast rugby league team The West Coast rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the West Coast Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Chargers.-History:... |
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 112 | 40 | 6 |
| Otago Otago rugby league team The Otago rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Otago Rugby League. They are known as the Whalers. In the past they have been nicknamed the Storm, the Raiders and the 45er's.-History:... |
3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 44 | 46 | 4 |
| Canterbury | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 86 | 44 | 2 |
| Nelson-Marlborough Tasman rugby league team The Tasman rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Tasman Rugby League. They have previously been nicknamed the Orcas but in 2010 adopted the Titans nickname... |
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 10 | 122 | 0 |
Finals
The Grand Final was played in Christchurch with Wellington winning 32-20 after being down 10-14 at halftime.National Secondary Schools Tournament
Eighty Two schools competed in the National tournament with St. Paul's CollegeSt. Paul's College, Auckland
St Paul's College is a college for year 7 to 13 boys and offers a Catholic education to its students. It is located in the central Auckland suburb of Ponsonby. The school originates from 1903 when the Marist Brothers opened Sacred Heart College, Auckland on the site...
, De La Salle College
De La Salle College, Mangere East
De La Salle College is an integrated Catholic secondary boys' school Auckland, New Zealand. Established in 1953 by the De La Salle Brothers, it continues to educate young men in the Catholic faith and Christian values. Students are encouraged to develop every aspect of their person and a strong...
, New Plymouth Boys High School and Hillmorton High School all making the semi-finals. St Paul's won the trophy for the second year in a row, defeating New Plymouth 38-16 in the final.
Australian competitions
The Auckland Warriors competed in the Australian Rugby LeagueAustralian Rugby League
The Australian Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in Australia. It is made up of state bodies, including the New South Wales Rugby League and the Queensland Rugby League...
competition for the first time. The team finished tenth, missing the finals by only two points. The Reserve Grade team made the finals but lost in the quarterfinals.
Auckland
The Otahuhu LeopardsOtahuhu Leopards
The Otahuhu Leopards are a rugby league club based in Otahuhu, New Zealand. The club competes in the Fox Memorial competition run by the Auckland Rugby League. They are coached by Peter Caccioppoli. Between 2000 and 2003 they also competed in the Bartercard Cup.The team are the current holders of...
won the Fox Memorial, there tenth, by defeating the Marist Saints
Marist Saints
The Marist Saints is a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. They regularly feature in the Fox Memorial, the premier division in Auckland Rugby League...
32-0 in the grand final. City Pt Chevalier won the Rukutai Shield as minor premiers.
The Manurewa Marlins
Manurewa Marlins
The Manurewa Marlins are a rugby league club based in Manurewa, New Zealand. The Marlins compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition. Between 2000 and 2003 they competed in the national Bartercard Cup competition.-Notable players:...
defeated the Waitemata Seagulls to win the Sharman Cup second division. As a result there were promoted to the Fox Memorial for 1996. Otahuhu won the Stormont Shield.
Otahuhu were coached by Trevor McLeod while Marist were coached by Del Hughes. Richmond included Greg Wolfgram, Ben Lythe
Ben Lythe
Ben Lythe is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was at Halfback. He was also a noted goalkicker.-Early years:...
and Boycie Nelson
Boycie Nelson
Boycie Nelson is a New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Glenora Bears. His position of preference is in the Centres and he also kicks goals.-New Zealand:...
played for Mt Albert and Steve Buckingham
Steve Buckingham (rugby league)
Steve Buckingham is a New Zealand rugby league coach and player. His position of preference is at Halfback. He is currently the head coach of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:...
and Lee Tamatoa played for Glenora.
Wellington
Marist Northern won the grand final of the Wellington Rugby LeagueWellington Rugby League
Wellington Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Greater Wellington region. It is responsible for the local competition of the same name, as well as its representative team, the Wellington rugby league team.- Local Senior Competition :The...
competition, defeating St George 48-22. The Randwick Kingfishers were the minor premiers.
Canterbury
The Halswell Hornets won the Canterbury Rugby LeagueCanterbury Rugby League
Canterbury Rugby League is the regional body that administers rugby league in Canterbury, New Zealand. CRL manages local competitions from senior level down to age group competitions. Canterbury Rugby League also manages the Canterbury rugby league team which represents the region in New Zealand...
's Pat Smith Challenge Trophy grand final 20-19 over Linwood. Halswell were coached by Phil Prescott and included Glen Coughlan. The two teams had earlier shared the minor premiership.
The West Coast Waro-rakau Hornets won the Thacker Shield by defeating Canterbury's Haswell Hornets 48-16.
Other Competitions
In Northland The Moerewa Tigers won the Bay of Islands competition, defeating the Kaikohe Lions 16-12, the West End Jumbos won the Whangarei competition, defeating the Otaika Eagles 30-24, and the East Coast Rebels defeated the Te Paatu United Warriors 32-28 to win the Far North competition.Turangawaewae won the minor premiership and the championship in the Waikato Rugby League
Waikato Rugby League
Waikato Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Waikato region of New Zealand. The WRL are represented by the Waikato rugby league team...
competition, defeating Taniwharau Rugby League 20-15 in the grand final.
The Piako Warriors defeated the Tokoroa Pacific Sharks 34-20 in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League
Bay of Plenty Rugby League
Bay of Plenty Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand...
grand final. Piako featured Hare Te Rangi
Hare Te Rangi
Hare Te Rangi is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand Māori at the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Te Rangi started his career with the Piako Warriors, who won the Bay of Plenty Rugby League grand final in 1995...
.
The Waitara Bears won the Taranaki Rugby League
Taranaki Rugby League
Taranaki Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. The TRL are represented by the Taranaki rugby league team...
competition 16-14 over the defending champions, the Western Suburbs Tigers. The Bears featured Blair Nickson while the Tigers included Willie Talau
Willie Talau
Viliamu Talau is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for English club Salford City Reds of Super League...
. Kia Ora, coached by Peter Sixtus, defeated Otaki 14-4 in the Manawatu Rugby League
Manawatu Rugby League
Manawatu Rugby League was formed in 1957. They are currently part of the Mid-Central zone along with Taranaki Rugby League.-Kiwi Players:Only one player from Manawatu has ever made the New Zealand Kiwis. This was Kiwi number 456, Dick Uluave, who played two tests in 1979.-National Competitions:In...
grand final.
Taradale Eagles defeated the Omahu Huia 51-10 in the Hawke's Bay Rugby League grand final while the Kaiti Knights won the Gisborne-East Coast grand final, defeating Uawa 34-26.
The Motueka Tigers won the Nelson-Marlborough grand final, defeating the Blenheim Knights 42-24. Cobden-Kohinoor won the West Coast Rugby League grand final, defeating minor premiers Waro-rakau 12-10. The Waitati Warriors won the Otago grand final 14-10 over the South Pacific Raiders while Bluff defeated He Tauaa 20-14 in the Southland championship match.