2000 New Zealand rugby league season
Encyclopedia
The 2000 New Zealand rugby league season was the ninety third season of rugby league
that had been played in New Zealand
. The main feature of the year was the inaugural season of the Bartercard Cup
competition that was run by the New Zealand Rugby League
. The Canterbury Bulls
won the Cup by defeating the Otahuhu Leopards
38-24 in the Grand Final.
0-52 in Sydney and then heading to Europe in October for the 2000 World Cup
. They lost to Australia 12-40 in the final of the World Cup. Coached by Frank Endacott
New Zealands World Cup squad included; captain Richie Barnett
, Richie Blackmore
, Tonie Carroll
, Nathan Cayless
, Brian Jellick
, Stacey Jones
, Stephen Kearney
, Ali Lauitiiti
, Tasesa Lavea
, Henry
and Robbie Paul
, Quentin Pongia
, Tony Puletua
, Matt Rua
, Richard Swain
, Logan Swann
, Willie Talau
, David Vaealiki
, Joe
and Nigel Vagana
, Lesley Vainikolo
and Ruben Wiki
. Craig Smith
, Jason Lowrie
, David Kidwell
and Tyran Smith
all played in the ANZAC Test but did not make the World Cup squad.
The New Zealand Māori
side also participated in the World Cup, losing to Samoa and Ireland but defeating Scotland. Earlier in the year they had participated in a three match series against Fiji
, defeating them 3-0. New Zealand Māori were coached by Cameron Bell
and included Billy Weepu
, Hare Te Rangi
, Steve Berryman
, Boycie Nelson
, Solomon Kiri
and Doc Murray
. The World Cup squad was captained by Tawera Nikau
and included Alex Chan, Jamie Cookthcote
, Luke Goodwin
, Terry Hermansson
, Sean Hoppe
, David Kidwell
, Toa Kohe-Love
, Wairangi Koopu
, Kylie Leuluai
, Odell Manuel
, Martin Moana
, Jared Mills
, Chris Nahi
, Boycie Nelson
, Gene Ngamu
, Henry Perenara
, Paul Rauhihi
, Tahi Reihana
, Jeremy Smith, Tyran Smith
, Clinton Toopi
, Paul Whatuira
and Hare Te Rangi
.
The New Zealand Residents toured Australia twice, conducting a three match tour in July and then returning to play Australia in October. The Residents defeated Victoria 64-0 and Dubbo Combined 82-10 before losing to Sydney Metropolitan 24-22. The Residents were coached by Gerard Stokes
and included players such as; Lusi Sione, Motu Tony
, captain Esau Mann
, Paul
and David Fisiiahi
, Boycie Nelson
, George Tuakura
, Hare Te Rangi
, Phillip Leuluai
, Ben Lythe
, Peter Lewis
, Solomon Kiri
, Jonathan Smith
, Anthony Seu Seu
and Shane Beyers. Aaron Whittaker
was the team trainer. The Residents teams were selected by Stokes, John Ackland and Dominic Clarke.
The Residents then returned to play Australia in Gosford in October. The Residents had a weakened team, as World Cup sides such as Cook Islands, Western Samoa and Tonga had first call on players. In front of 16,200 fans Australia won 108-0.
Auckland
played a home and away series with the Cook Islands
in October. The series replaced a planned two-match tour of Fiji in June which was cancelled following the coup d'état. Dominic Clark coached the Auckland team.
defended the Rugby League Cup
by defeating Northland 28-22 on 3 September.
competition run by the New Zealand Rugby League
. The competition was the first large scale attempt to replace the Lion Red Cup
and involved eight Auckland Rugby League
clubs and four regional teams. Eventual winners Canterbury were the only full provincial side in the competition. Waikato were the surprise omission.
Canterbury won $50,000 prize money for winning, with Otahuhu receiving $30,000. The curtain raiser was between New Zealand Students and Great Britain Students.
consisting of Fox Memorial players dominated the North Island Second Division competition, winning all six matches. The team was coached by Del Hughes and included Tevita Latu
. Auckland defeated Coastline
, Wellington, Manawatu, Taranaki
, Northland and Waikato.
clubs and the South Island provincial teams. The teams involved included the Tasman Orcas
(featuring coach Paul Bergman and player Phil Bergman
), Otago Storm
, the West Coast Chargers
and from Canterbury: the Haswell Hornets (who included Mike Dorreen, Glenn Coughlan and Aaron Whittaker
), Hornby Panthers (including Corey Lawrie
), Eastern Sea Eagles, Papanui Tigers, Sydenham Swans, Riccarton Knights and Linwood Kews.
Team Mainland Super 10 "dream team" was: Warren Donaldson (West Coast), Eddie Hei Hei (Papanui), Joe Fatuleai (Eastern), Clinton Fraser (Tasman), Linkoln Newson (Hornby), Phil Bergman
(Tasman), Aaron Whittaker
(Halswell), Danny Champion (Halswell), Leon Stone (Papanui), Vince Whare (Riccarton), Riki Ashwell (Otago), Tim Sione (Hornby), Brad Williams (Halswell).
Tasman and Hornby made the final after they defeated Easts 51-36 and Halswell 20-14 respectively. Tasman won the inaugural season's championship by defeating Horby 20-0 in the Grand Final.
competition. They finished 13th out of 14 teams and failed to make the playoffs.
won the Fox Memorial, despite also fielding a Bartercard Cup side. They defeated Richmond
21-14 in the grand final. Richmond won the Rukutai Shield (minor premiership). Richmond included Tevita Latu
and Daniel Vasau
, who won the Best and Fairest award.
and the Wellington Rugby Union, following the sale of Athletic Park.
competition, defeating the Hamilton City Tigers.
The Waitara Bears defeated Marist 24-12 in the Taranaki Rugby League
grand final.
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 inaugural season of the Bartercard Cup
Bartercard Cup
The Bartercard Cup was the top level rugby league club competition in New Zealand from 2000 until 2007. For the entire life of the tournament it was sponsored by Bartercard. The cup was administered by the New Zealand Rugby League...
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 Canterbury Bulls
Canterbury Bulls
The Canterbury rugby league team are a rugby league team who represent the Canterbury Rugby League. They are currently nicknamed the Bulls but have previously had other nicknames such as the Reds. They are based at Rugby League Park in Christchurch....
won the Cup by defeating the Otahuhu Leopards
Otahuhu 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...
38-24 in the Grand Final.
International competitions
The New Zealand Kiwis did not play any test matches in New Zealand in 2000, losing the ANZAC TestANZAC Test
The Anzac Test is an annual rugby league football test match . The test match is played annually between Australia and New Zealand on or around Anzac Day for the Bill Kelly Memorial Trophy.-Origins:Australia and New Zealand had competed in Rugby League Tests since 1908...
0-52 in Sydney and then heading to Europe in October for the 2000 World Cup
2000 Rugby League World Cup
The 2000 Rugby League World Cup was the twelfth staging of the Rugby League World Cup and was held during October and November of that year in Great Britain, Ireland and France...
. They lost to Australia 12-40 in the final of the World Cup. 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...
New Zealands World Cup squad included; captain 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....
, Tonie Carroll
Tonie Carroll
Tonie Carroll is retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australian and New Zealand international representative utility, he played for the Brisbane Broncos of the NRL...
, Nathan Cayless
Nathan Cayless
Nathan Frederick Cayless is a retired New Zealand-Australian professional rugby league footballer, who was a long-time captain the Parramatta Eels of the National Rugby League. His position of choice was prop forward. He is also a former captain of the New Zealand national team, whom he led to...
, Brian Jellick
Brian Jellick
Brian Andrew Jellick is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. His position of preference was on the .-Playing career:...
, 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...
, Ali Lauitiiti
Ali Lauitiiti
Ali Lauitiiti is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer for English club Leeds Rhinos in the European Super League. Both a Samoa and New Zealand international representative forward, he previously played in the National Rugby League for the Warriors...
, Tasesa Lavea
Tasesa Lavea
Tasesa James Lavea is a New Zealand rugby union footballer of Samoan descent and heritage, who currently plays for English club Sale Sharks.-Career:...
, Henry
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...
and Robbie Paul
Robbie Paul
Robert Rawiri 'Robbie' Hunter-Paul is a New Zealand rugby league player. He currently plays for Leigh Centurions in England. He played for the New Zealand national team 27 times. He is the younger brother of Leeds Carnegie player Henry Paul.-Early years:Born in Tokoroa, New Zealand, his junior...
, 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,...
, Tony Puletua
Tony Puletua
Anthony Puletua is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer for St. Helens in the European Super League. A New Zealand and Samoan international, Puletua previously played for the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League competition...
, Matt Rua
Matt Rua
Matthew Rua is a former professional rugby league player.-Playing career:Rua was a Manly Warringah Sea Eagles junior in 1996 and played for the Junior Kiwis....
, Richard Swain
Richard Swain
Richard Swain is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative Hooker, he played club football in Australia for the Hunter Mariners, Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos and in England for Hull.-Early years:Swain went to Farrer...
, 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:...
, 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...
, David Vaealiki
David Vaealiki
David Ioane Vaealiki is a rugby union player currently playing for SC Albi. He has represented New Zealand in rugby league and previously played in the National Rugby League in Australia and in Super League in England...
, Joe
Joe Vagana
Joe Vagana is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. During his career Vagana played for the Auckland Warriors and the Bradford Bulls and also represented both Samoa and New Zealand in international competition...
and 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...
, 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 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...
. Craig Smith
Craig Smith (rugby league born 1971)
Craig Smith is a former professional rugby league footballer. He formerly played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Illawarra Steelers, St. George Illawarra Dragons and the Newcastle Knights as well as representing New Zealand and Queensland...
, 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:...
, 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...
and Tyran Smith
Tyran Smith
Tyran Carl Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. He now works as a player agent.-Playing career:During his long career he played in the NSWRL Premiership, Australian Rugby League, Super League and finally the National Rugby League...
all played in the ANZAC Test but did not make the World Cup squad.
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 also participated in the World Cup, losing to Samoa and Ireland but defeating Scotland. Earlier in the year they had participated in a three match series against Fiji
Fiji national rugby league team
-Competitions:Fiji have participated in:*Pacific Cup *World Cup *World Sevens *Superleague World Nines *Superleague Oceania Tournament *Pacific Rim Competition -Results:...
, defeating them 3-0. New Zealand Māori were 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 Billy Weepu
Billy Weepu
Billy Weepu is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played for the Manly Sea Eagles. He is the brother of All Black Piri Weepu.-Early years:...
, 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...
, Steve Berryman
Steve Berryman
Steve Berryman is a Cook Islander former professional rugby footballer who at representative level has played rugby league for the New Zealand Māori team and the Cook Islands.-Playing career:...
, 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:...
, 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:...
and Doc Murray
Doc Murray
David "Doc" Murray is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. His position of preference was at Fullback.-New Zealand career:...
. The World Cup squad was captained by Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nuieia Nikau is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative forward, he played club football at a number of different clubs in New Zealand, England and Australia during his career, including the Melbourne Storm's victory...
and included Alex Chan, Jamie Cookthcote
Jamie Cookthcote
Jamie Cookthcote is a former professional rugby league footballer who played at the 2000 World Cup with the Aotearoa Māori side. His position of preference was at -Playing career:...
, Luke Goodwin
Luke Goodwin
Luke Goodwin is a retired professional rugby league player who played in Australia and England and represented Aotearoa Māori in 2000.He is the son of rugby league legend, Edward 'Lord Ted' Goodwin who represented Australia...
, Terry Hermansson
Terry Hermansson
Terry "The Rock" Hermansson is a former New Zealand rugby league player. An international representative prop forward, he played club football in England, Australia and New Zealand.-Playing career:...
, Sean Hoppe
Sean Hoppe
Sean Edward Hoppe is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Early years:...
, 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...
, Toa Kohe-Love
Toa Kohe-Love
Toa Kohe-Love is a professional rugby league player. Kohe-Love currently plays for the Widnes Vikings in the National League One. Kohe-Love represented Aotearoa Māori at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup...
, 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:...
, Kylie Leuluai
Kylie Leuluai
Kylie Leuluai is a professional rugby league footballer currently contracted to the Leeds Rhinos of Super League...
, 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:...
, 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:...
, Jared Mills
Jared Mills
Jared Mills is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Aotearoa Māori in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:...
, Chris Nahi
Chris Nahi
Christopher Nahi is a former professional rugby league footballer. He has played representative rugby league for both the New Zealand Māori team and a Rest of the World side.-Playing career:...
, 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:...
, 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 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...
, Paul Rauhihi
Paul Rauhihi
Paul 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:...
, Tahi Reihana
Tahi Reihana
Tahi Reihana is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the Australian Rugby League premiership and Super League competitions.-Playing career:...
, Jeremy Smith, Tyran Smith
Tyran Smith
Tyran Carl Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. He now works as a player agent.-Playing career:During his long career he played in the NSWRL Premiership, Australian Rugby League, Super League and finally the National Rugby League...
, Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi is a professional rugby footballer who is currently playing for the Gold Coast Titans of the National Rugby League. His usual position is centre.-Playing career:...
, Paul Whatuira
Paul Whatuira
Paul Whatuira is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Parramatta Eels in the NRL...
and 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 New Zealand Residents toured Australia twice, conducting a three match tour in July and then returning to play Australia in October. The Residents defeated Victoria 64-0 and Dubbo Combined 82-10 before losing to Sydney Metropolitan 24-22. The Residents were coached by 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...
and included players such as; Lusi Sione, Motu Tony
Motu Tony
Iosefo Motu Tony is a Samoan-New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats and previously played for Hull and Whitehaven...
, captain Esau Mann
Esau Mann
Esau 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:...
, Paul
Paul Fisiiahi
Paul Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Howick Hornets. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International David.-Playing career:...
and David Fisiiahi
David Fisiiahi
David Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Ellerslie Eagles. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International Paul.-Playing career:...
, 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:...
, George Tuakura
George Tuakura
George Tuakura is a Cook Islands rugby league player who currently plays for the Central Comets in the Queensland Cup...
, 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...
, 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...
, 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:...
, Peter Lewis
Peter Lewis (rugby league)
-Early years:A junior from Wellington's Upper Hutt, Lewis was signed by the Auckland Warriors in 1998 and moved to Auckland. In Auckland he played for the Warriors unbeaten reserve grade side in 1998 and was good enough to be selected for the Junior Kiwis. He attracted some interest from Australian...
, 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:...
, Jonathan Smith
Jonathan Smith (rugby league)
Jonathan Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was in the Second Row.-Playing career:...
, Anthony Seu Seu
Anthony Seu Seu
Anthony Seuseu is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of choice was as a prop forward. He is the younger brother of Jerry Seuseu.-Early years:...
and Shane Beyers. 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:...
was the team trainer. The Residents teams were selected by Stokes, John Ackland and Dominic Clarke.
The Residents then returned to play Australia in Gosford in October. The Residents had a weakened team, as World Cup sides such as Cook Islands, Western Samoa and Tonga had first call on players. In front of 16,200 fans Australia won 108-0.
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...
played a home and away series with the Cook Islands
Cook Islands national rugby league team
-2008 World Cup Qualifying:See 2008 Rugby League World Cup qualifyingThe Cook Islands played Fiji, Tonga and Samoa in the Pacific pool of Qualifying for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. Fiji and Tonga qualified, and Samoa earned a second chance in the repecharge round...
in October. The series replaced a planned two-match tour of Fiji in June which was cancelled following the coup d'état. Dominic Clark coached the Auckland team.
Rugby League Cup
TaranakiTaranaki rugby league team
The Taranaki rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Taranaki Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Rockets, Sharks and Wildcats.-1908:...
defended 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...
by defeating Northland 28-22 on 3 September.
Bartercard Cup
The 2000 Bartercard Cup was the inaugural season of the Bartercard CupBartercard Cup
The Bartercard Cup was the top level rugby league club competition in New Zealand from 2000 until 2007. For the entire life of the tournament it was sponsored by Bartercard. The cup was administered by the New Zealand Rugby League...
competition 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 competition was the first large scale attempt to replace 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...
and involved eight Auckland Rugby League
Auckland Rugby League
The Auckland Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in the Auckland Region of New Zealand. It is responsible for rugby league in the region and was the owner of Carlaw Park, once the "spiritual home of rugby league in New Zealand".-History:The Auckland Rugby League was...
clubs and four regional teams. Eventual winners Canterbury were the only full provincial side in the competition. Waikato were the surprise omission.
The Teams
- Hibiscus CoastHibiscus CoastThe Hibiscus Coast is a stretch of the Hauraki Gulf coast located in New Zealand's Rodney District, 10 minutes north of the former North Shore City by car. It contains the northernmost part of the Auckland metropolitan area....
were coached by Brian McClennanBrian McClennanBrian "Bluey" McClennan is the head coach for the New Zealand Warriors of the National Rugby League . He was previously the head coach of the New Zealand national team and then England's Leeds Rhinos club...
and Tony BensonTony BensonTony Benson is a rugby league coach from New Zealand. Since the 2008-2009 season he has been the head coach of Oldham Roughyeds in the British Rugby League National Championship 1.-New Zealand:...
and included Aaron HeremaiaAaron HeremaiaAaron Aspin Heremaia is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League...
, Scott CoxonScott CoxonScott Coxon is a former rugby league player who played professionally in the National Rugby League competition. His position of preference was in the Second Row.-Playing career:...
and Anthony Seuseu. - Northcote were coached by Marty Rudolph and included Tony TuimavaveTony TuimavaveAntonio 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....
, Jamie CookJamie CookthcoteJamie Cookthcote is a former professional rugby league footballer who played at the 2000 World Cup with the Aotearoa Māori side. His position of preference was at -Playing career:...
and Keneti Asiata. - Glenora, led by player-coach Duane MannDuane MannDuane Darrin Mann is a rugby league coach and former professional footballer who represented and captained both the New Zealand Kiwis and Tonga. He currently coaches the Bay Roskill Vikings in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Personal life:...
, included captain 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:...
, Aaron Tucker, Wairangi KoopuWairangi KoopuWairangi 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:...
and Gavin Bailey. - The Mt Albert LionsMt Albert LionsThe Mount Albert Lions are a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. The Lions home ground is at Fowlds Park. Their patron is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark. In 2008 and 2009 the Lions won the Fox Memorial....
were coached by John Ackland and included 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...
, Carl DohertyCarl DohertyCarl Doherty is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was Fullback.-Playing career:...
, Awen GuttenbeilAwen GuttenbeilAwen Guttenbeil is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer. Since retiring after a playing career spanning fifteen years, he now works as a broadcaster for Sky Network Television and as a presenter on Maori TV sports show, Hyundai Code...
, 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:...
and Peter LewisPeter Lewis (rugby league)-Early years:A junior from Wellington's Upper Hutt, Lewis was signed by the Auckland Warriors in 1998 and moved to Auckland. In Auckland he played for the Warriors unbeaten reserve grade side in 1998 and was good enough to be selected for the Junior Kiwis. He attracted some interest from Australian...
. - Marist RichmondMarist Richmond BrothersThe Marist Richmond Brothers were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that played in the Bartercard Cup. They were a joint venture between two Auckland Rugby League clubs, the Richmond Bulldogs and the Marist Saints. In 2005 the competition was reorganised and the club, along with the Mt Albert...
included Motu TonyMotu TonyIosefo Motu Tony is a Samoan-New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats and previously played for Hull and Whitehaven...
, Jason Williams, Francis MeliFrancis MeliFrancis Meli is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for St. Helens in the Super League competition. Meli has represented both New Zealand and Samoa in internationals. His usual position is on the wing....
and Lee FinnertyLee FinnertyLee Finnerty is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the Halifax Blue Sox.-Playing career:Finnerty joined the Marist Richmond Brothers in 2000 with the launch of the Bartercard Cup....
. - The Eastern TornadoesEastern TornadoesThe Eastern Tornadoes were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that competed in the New Zealand Rugby League's Bartercard Cup and Auckland Rugby League's Super 12 competitions. They were formed to represent the rugby league clubs of East Auckland.-History:...
included DavidDavid FisiiahiDavid Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Ellerslie Eagles. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International Paul.-Playing career:...
and Paul FisiiahiPaul FisiiahiPaul Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Howick Hornets. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International David.-Playing career:...
and Phillip LeuluaiPhillip LeuluaiPhillip 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...
and were coached by James LeuluaiJames LeuluaiA'au James Leuluai is a New Zealand former international rugby league player. His favoured position was centre. He is the father of Wigan Warriors and New Zealand international Thomas Leuluai. He is also the uncle of Leeds Rhinos prop Kylie Leuluai....
. - OtahuhuOtahuhu LeopardsThe 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...
, who also drew from ManukauManukau MagpiesThe Manukau Magpies are a rugby league football club based in Manukau, New Zealand who compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition. The club was established in 1910.-History:...
and Mangere EastMangere East HawksThe Mangere East Hawks are a rugby league based in Mangere, New Zealand. The Hawks compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition.-History:The club was founded in 1964, before this teams from the area had been attached to the Otahuhu club...
, were led by player-coach 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:...
in his first year as a senior grade coach. The team included George CarmontGeorge CarmontGeorge Carmont is a professional rugby league footballer for the Wigan Warriors of the Super League competition...
, Clinton ToopiClinton ToopiClinton Toopi is a professional rugby footballer who is currently playing for the Gold Coast Titans of the National Rugby League. His usual position is centre.-Playing career:...
, Hare Te RangiHare Te RangiHare 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...
, captain 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:...
, 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:...
, 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:...
, Jonathan SmithJonathan Smith (rugby league)Jonathan Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was in the Second Row.-Playing career:...
and George TuakuraGeorge TuakuraGeorge Tuakura is a Cook Islands rugby league player who currently plays for the Central Comets in the Queensland Cup...
. - The Manurewa MarlinsManurewa MarlinsThe 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:...
included Channerith and Channerath Ly. - The Ngongotaha Chiefs included 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:...
and Andrew LeotaAndrew LeotaAndrew Leota is a Tongan rugby footballer who represented his country in rugby league at the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Leota originally played rugby league, being named in the Tonga squad for the 2000 World Cup and representing Coastline between 1997 and 2001...
. - The Porirua PumasPorirua PumasThe Porirua Pumas were a team representing the Porirua region in New Zealand's Bartercard Cup Rugby league competition. The Pumas were one of two Wellington-based teams in the competition, the other being the Wainuiomata Lions. They were replaced in 2002 by the Wellington Orcas...
were coached by Mike KuitiMike KuitiMichael James "Mike" Kuiti is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally in England and represented his country, including in Test matches that counted towards the 1992 World Cup.-Playing career:...
and 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:...
. - The Wainuiomata Lions included Billy WeepuBilly WeepuBilly Weepu is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played for the Manly Sea Eagles. He is the brother of All Black Piri Weepu.-Early years:...
, Paul WhatuiraPaul WhatuiraPaul Whatuira is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Parramatta Eels in the NRL...
, Steve BerrymanSteve BerrymanSteve Berryman is a Cook Islander former professional rugby footballer who at representative level has played rugby league for the New Zealand Māori team and the Cook Islands.-Playing career:...
and David FaiumuDavid FaiumuDavid Faiumu is a professional rugby league footballer for the Huddersfield Giants of Super League...
. - The Canterbury Bulls were coached by Gerard StokesGerard StokesGerard 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...
and included Lusi SioneLusi SioneLusi Sione is a former New Zealand rugby league player who played for Workington Town and represented the Canterbury and New Zealand 'A'.-Playing career:Sione started his career in the Lion Red Cup, playing for the Canterbury Country Cardinals....
, Scott Nixon, Tangia TongiiaTangia TongiiaTangia Tongiia is a Cook Islander former rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Cook Islands, playing at .-Playing career:...
, Robert HenareRobert HenareRobert Henare is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the St. George Dragons.-Playing career:In 1996 Henare was a junior with the Illawarra Steelers and also captained the Junior Kiwis....
, captain Maurice Emslie and Shane Beyers.
Season Stadings
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Otahuhu Leopards Otahuhu 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... |
22 | 18 | 0 | 4 | 782 | 440 | 342 | 36 |
| Canterbury Bulls Canterbury Bulls The Canterbury rugby league team are a rugby league team who represent the Canterbury Rugby League. They are currently nicknamed the Bulls but have previously had other nicknames such as the Reds. They are based at Rugby League Park in Christchurch.... |
22 | 15 | 0 | 7 | 658 | 525 | 133 | 30 |
| Eastern Tornadoes Eastern Tornadoes The Eastern Tornadoes were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that competed in the New Zealand Rugby League's Bartercard Cup and Auckland Rugby League's Super 12 competitions. They were formed to represent the rugby league clubs of East Auckland.-History:... |
22 | 15 | 0 | 7 | 584 | 516 | 68 | 30 |
| Wainuiomata Lions Wainuiomata Lions The Wainuiomata Lions are a New Zealand rugby league club based in Wainuiomata, Wellington. They compete in the Wellington Rugby League competition.-Noted Players:... |
22 | 13 | 0 | 9 | 668 | 542 | 126 | 26 |
| Glenora Bears Glenora Bears The Glenora Bears are a rugby league football club based in Glen Eden, New Zealand who compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition. The club was established in 1931... |
22 | 13 | 0 | 9 | 608 | 519 | 89 | 26 |
| Mt Albert Lions Mt Albert Lions The Mount Albert Lions are a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. The Lions home ground is at Fowlds Park. Their patron is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark. In 2008 and 2009 the Lions won the Fox Memorial.... |
22 | 12 | 1 | 9 | 593 | 584 | 9 | 25 |
| 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:... |
22 | 11 | 2 | 9 | 633 | 521 | 112 | 24 |
| Hibiscus Coast Raiders Hibiscus Coast Raiders The Hibiscus Coast Raiders are a rugby league club based on the Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand. They compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition and between 2000 and 2005 were also involved in the Bartercard Cup competition.-History:... |
22 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 544 | 578 | ||
| 19 | ||||||||
| Marist Richmond Brothers Marist Richmond Brothers The Marist Richmond Brothers were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that played in the Bartercard Cup. They were a joint venture between two Auckland Rugby League clubs, the Richmond Bulldogs and the Marist Saints. In 2005 the competition was reorganised and the club, along with the Mt Albert... |
22 | 9 | 0 | 13 | 558 | 707 | ||
| 18 | ||||||||
| Northcote Tigers Northcote Tigers The Northcote Tigers are a rugby league club based in Northcote, New Zealand. The club was founded in 1910 as the Northcote Warriors.The Tigers compete in the Fox Memorial competition run by the Auckland Rugby League. Between 2000 and 2002 the Northcote Tigers competed in the national Bartercard... |
22 | 7 | 1 | 14 | 490 | 654 | ||
| 15 | ||||||||
| Ngongotaha Chiefs Ngongotaha Chiefs The Ngongotaha Chiefs are a New Zealand rugby league club. They are from Ngongotaha in the Bay of Plenty. In 2000 and 2001 they competed in the Bartercard Cup but now they compete in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League competition.-Notable players:... |
22 | 4 | 0 | 18 | 424 | 685 | ||
| 8 | ||||||||
| Porirua Pumas Porirua Pumas The Porirua Pumas were a team representing the Porirua region in New Zealand's Bartercard Cup Rugby league competition. The Pumas were one of two Wellington-based teams in the competition, the other being the Wainuiomata Lions. They were replaced in 2002 by the Wellington Orcas... |
22 | 3 | 1 | 18 | 506 | 777 | ||
| 7 | ||||||||
The Playoffs
This was the only year in the eight years of the competition that two sides from outside of Auckland made the playoffs. The two teams, the Cantebury Bulls and the Wainuiomata Lions, met in the Preliminary Final with Canterbury prevailing 36-6.| Match | Winner | Loser | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elimination Play-off | Wainuiomata Lions | 18 | Glenora Bears | 10 |
| Preliminary Semifinal | Canterbury Bulls | 38 | Eastern Tornadoes | 25 |
| Elimination Semifinal | Wainuiomata Lions | 25 | Eastern Tornadoes | 20 |
| Qualification Semifinal | Otahuhu Leopards | 51 | Canterbury Bulls | 28 |
| Preliminary Final | Canterbury Bulls | 36 | Wainuiomata Lions | 6 |
Grand Final
| Otahuhu | Position | Canterbury |
|---|---|---|
| Corey Palmer | FB | Lusi Sione Lusi Sione Lusi Sione is a former New Zealand rugby league player who played for Workington Town and represented the Canterbury and New Zealand 'A'.-Playing career:Sione started his career in the Lion Red Cup, playing for the Canterbury Country Cardinals.... |
| George Carmont George Carmont George Carmont is a professional rugby league footballer for the Wigan Warriors of the Super League competition... |
WG | Scott Woodgate |
| Chris Magele | CE | Gafa Tuiloma |
| Scott Niwa | CE | Raymond Hubbard |
| Mark Elder | WG | Gareth Cook |
| Shane Edwards | FE | Scott Nixon |
| 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... |
HB | Maurice Elmslie (C) |
| George Tuakura George Tuakura George Tuakura is a Cook Islands rugby league player who currently plays for the Central Comets in the Queensland Cup... |
PR | Kevin Te Hau |
| Esau Mann Esau Mann Esau 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:... (C) |
HK | Shane Beyers |
| Haemish Reid | PR | Craig Barrow |
| Herman Lemafa | SR | Shaun Norton |
| Tyson Majoribanks | SR | Graeme Emslie |
| Chris Peau | LK | Jonny Limmer |
| Lance Kouka | Bench | Clayton Harris |
| 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:... |
Bench | Malafa Pua'avase |
| Eric Pele | Bench | Robert Henare Robert Henare Robert Henare is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the St. George Dragons.-Playing career:In 1996 Henare was a junior with the Illawarra Steelers and also captained the Junior Kiwis.... |
| Tusa Lafaele | Bench | Enoka Mamoe |
| 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:... |
Coach | 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... |
Canterbury won $50,000 prize money for winning, with Otahuhu receiving $30,000. The curtain raiser was between New Zealand Students and Great Britain Students.
| Team | Halftime | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Canterbury Bulls | 20 | 38 |
| Otahuhu Leopards | 8 | 24 |
Awards
|
Carl Doherty Carl Doherty is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was Fullback.-Playing career:... (215; Mt Albert) 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... (Otahuhu) and Remus Gentles (Eastern) |
North Island Second Division
An Auckland sideAuckland 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...
consisting of Fox Memorial players dominated the North Island Second Division competition, winning all six matches. The team was coached by Del Hughes and included Tevita Latu
Tevita Latu
Tevita Leo-Latu is a professional rugby league footballer for the Central Queensland Comets of the Queensland Cup. He previously played for the New Zealand Warriors and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the National Rugby League...
. Auckland defeated 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:...
, Wellington, Manawatu, Taranaki
Taranaki rugby league team
The Taranaki rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Taranaki Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Rockets, Sharks and Wildcats.-1908:...
, Northland and Waikato.
Mainland Super 10
A Mainland Super 10 competition was held between 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...
clubs and the South Island provincial teams. The teams involved included the Tasman Orcas
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...
(featuring coach Paul Bergman and player 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:...
), Otago Storm
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:...
, the West Coast Chargers
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:...
and from Canterbury: the Haswell Hornets (who included Mike Dorreen, Glenn Coughlan and 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:...
), Hornby Panthers (including Corey Lawrie
Corey Lawrie
Corey Lawrie is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently is the player-coach of the Hornby Panthers...
), Eastern Sea Eagles, Papanui Tigers, Sydenham Swans, Riccarton Knights and Linwood Kews.
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halswell Hornets | 9 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 323 | 116 | 207 | 18 |
| Eastern Sea Eagles | 9 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 270 | 196 | 74 | 13 |
| Tasman Orcas 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... |
9 | 6 | 0 | 3 | 292 | 154 | 138 | 12 |
| Hornby Panthers | 9 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 226 | 151 | 75 | 12 |
| Papanui Tigers | 9 | 6 | 0 | 3 | 262 | 196 | 66 | 12 |
| Otago Storm 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:... |
9 | 4 | 1 | 4 | 220 | 208 | 12 | 9 |
| Sydenham Swans | 9 | 2 | 1 | 6 | 206 | 338 | ||
| 5 | ||||||||
| West Coast Chargers 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:... |
9 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 170 | 306 | ||
| 4 | ||||||||
| Linwood Keas | 9 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 172 | 322 | ||
| 4 | ||||||||
| Riccarton Knights | 9 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 170 | 324 | ||
| 1 | ||||||||
Team Mainland Super 10 "dream team" was: Warren Donaldson (West Coast), Eddie Hei Hei (Papanui), Joe Fatuleai (Eastern), Clinton Fraser (Tasman), Linkoln Newson (Hornby), 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:...
(Tasman), 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:...
(Halswell), Danny Champion (Halswell), Leon Stone (Papanui), Vince Whare (Riccarton), Riki Ashwell (Otago), Tim Sione (Hornby), Brad Williams (Halswell).
Tasman and Hornby made the final after they defeated Easts 51-36 and Halswell 20-14 respectively. Tasman won the inaugural season's championship by defeating Horby 20-0 in the Grand Final.
Australian competitions
The Auckland Warriors competed in the National Rugby LeagueNational Rugby League
The National Rugby League is the top league of professional rugby league football clubs in Australasia. The NRL's main competition, called the Telstra Premiership , is contested by sixteen teams, fifteen of which are based in Australia with one based in New Zealand...
competition. They finished 13th out of 14 teams and failed to make the playoffs.
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, despite also fielding a Bartercard Cup side. They defeated Richmond
Richmond Rovers
The Richmond Rovers Rugby League Club is a rugby league club based in Grey Lynn, New Zealand. The premier team is called the Richmond Bulldogs and compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition.-Bartercard Cup:...
21-14 in the grand final. Richmond won the Rukutai Shield (minor premiership). Richmond included Tevita Latu
Tevita Latu
Tevita Leo-Latu is a professional rugby league footballer for the Central Queensland Comets of the Queensland Cup. He previously played for the New Zealand Warriors and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the National Rugby League...
and Daniel Vasau
Daniel Vasau
Daniel Vasau is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Vasau was a Richmond Bulldogs junior and won the Auckland Rugby League's best and fairest award in 2000. He was then included in the Tongan side for the 2000 World Cup...
, who won the Best and Fairest award.
Wellington
The Wellington City Council announces that Rugby League Park will be shared by 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...
and the Wellington Rugby Union, following the sale of Athletic Park.
Other Competitions
Turangawaewae won the 2000 Waikato Rugby LeagueWaikato 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 the Hamilton City Tigers.
The Waitara Bears defeated Marist 24-12 in 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...
grand final.