We are the most well-supported team. Our fans are just so passionate. Rugby league in New Zealand is just going really good at the moment.
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
Rugby League is a hugely important sport in New Zealand and Australia. Fans unite across stadiums, cities, and entire nations, and one of the most talked-about clubs in the NRL, the Warriors, is known for having loyal supporters. The team is a proud symbol of New Zealand, so let's explore what makes them so special.
| Team | Founded | Premierships_Won |
|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Broncos | 1988 | 7 |
| Canberra Raiders | 1982 | 3 |
| Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs | 1935 | 8 |
| Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks | 1967 | 1 |
| Dolphins | 2023 | 0 |
| Gold Coast Titans | 2007 | 0 |
| Manly Warringah Sea Eagles | 1947 | 8 |
| Melbourne Storm | 1998 | 4 |
| Newcastle Knights | 1988 | 2 |
| New Zealand Warriors | 1995 | 0 |
| North Queensland Cowboys | 1995 | 1 |
| Parramatta Eels | 1947 | 4 |
| Penrith Panthers | 1967 | 5 |
| South Sydney Rabbitohs | 1908 | 21 |
| St. George Illawarra Dragons | 1999 | 1 |
| Sydney Roosters | 1908 | 15 |
| Wests Tigers | 2000 | 1 |
Introduction to the NRL and the Warriors
The National Rugby League (NRL) is the top rugby league competition in New Zealand and Australia. It includes the best players and teams from both countries and has them compete during the season from March to October, culminating in the Grand Final. There are clubs representing communities, regions, and their sporting cultures. For New Zealand, it's the NZ Warriors that carry this weight on their shoulders and while their roster doesn't feature any of the highest-paid NRL players, the salary cap ensures that they're there or thereabouts.
The Warriors have been a key part of the NRL's expansion and identity. Following the club, the challenges and excitement of competing against Australia's rugby league sides, and from their early days in the mid-1990s to their push for finals contention in recent seasons, the Warriors have built a team focused on resilience, talent, and national pride!
Located in Mount Smart, Auckland, Go Media Stadium has been the Warriors’ home ground since their debut season in 1995. The 30,000-seat venue is famous for its electric atmosphere, where fans wrapped in blue, red, and green turn every home match into a celebration of New Zealand pride. The stadium has hosted countless iconic games and remains one of the toughest away grounds in the NRL
A Short History of the NRL
The NRL was officially formed in 1998 when the Australian Rugby League (ARL) and the Super League merged. The best clubs from both competitions were brought together under a single governing body to create one of the strongest and most competitive rugby league tournaments in the world, with the best rugby league players. The goal was to unify the sport, improve the standard of rugby, and expand its reach across Australasia.
The game obviously didn't start in 1998, and rugby league was first played in Australia as far back as the early 20th century, with the foundation of the New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL). The competition evolved over the decades with clubs like the Roosters, Panthers, Manly Sea Eagles, and Broncos. Over time, the annual Grand Final grew into one of the biggest events on the sporting calendar. Nowadays, the NRL has 17 teams, including the NZ Warriors. It's watched by millions of fans every week.
1908
Foundation of Rugby League in Australia:
The New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) is established, marking the official beginning of professional rugby league in Australia.
1982
Expansion Beyond Sydney:
Canberra Raiders and Illawarra Steelers join the NSWRL, beginning the competition's evolution into a national league.
1988
Brisbane Broncos and Newcastle Knights Enter the League:
Two powerhouse clubs are added, expanding the game's popularity and reach across Australia.
1995
NZ Warriors Join the Competition
The Auckland Warriors become the first New Zealand-based team in the league, symbolising the sport's international growth.
1998
Creation of the National Rugby League (NRL)
Following the Super League war, the ARL and Super League merge to form the NRL, uniting the game under one competition.
2002
Warriors’ First Grand Final Appearance
The NZ Warriors reach their maiden Grand Final against the Sydney Roosters, a landmark for New Zealand rugby league.
2010
NRL Expands to 16 Teams
The competition stabilises with 16 clubs, setting the foundation for record attendance and growth.
2023
Addition of the Dolphins
The NRL welcomes the Redcliffe Dolphins as its 17th team, strengthening its presence in Queensland.
2025
NRL Reaches a New Era
The league celebrates over 25 years of unified play with international audiences and a renewed push from the Warriors to return to finals contention.
How the NZ Warriors Joined the League
The NZ Warriors joined the Australian rugby league competition in 1995. This was one of the most significant moments in the sport's expansion, as it made the tournament truly international. The team was initially known as the Auckland Warriors, and the move was a long time coming, given New Zealand's deep rugby culture and the growing demand for a local side to compete against Australia's best clubs.
The Warriors' team colours, blue, green, white, and red, symbolise New Zealand's landscape and heritage. The logo features a Māori-inspired tiki mask, reflecting strength, unity, and cultural pride. Together, they represent not just a club but a nation's spirit within the NRL.
The inclusion of the Warriors was a strategic move. Rugby league was already huge in New Zealand, from grassroots to the world stage, with New Zealand producing some of the world's most talented players. A domestic NRL team allowed local athletes to compete against some of the best players ever closer to home.
In the Warriors' debut season in 1995, there were strong early performances with passionate crowds at Mount Smart Stadium. There was a growing sense that this team could unite rugby fans across New Zealand. However, consistency was hard to come by, despite the team being known for its physical, fearless attacking rugby.
at Go Media Stadium.
Why the NZ Warriors Joined the NRL
The Warriors’ Journey Through the Years
Since the Warriors' inclusion in the competition in 1995, the team has experienced highs and lows. There have been moments of brilliance and years of rebuilding, but the one thing that hasn't wavered is their fans' loyalty. The earliest years were exciting, but included growing pains. The team was tested against established Australian clubs like the Broncos, Roosters, and Panthers. The team became one of the most unpredictable and exciting teams in the league.
viewers annually.
In 2002, the Warriors reached their first Grand Final, proving they could challenge for titles. They'd repeat this achievement in 2011, but never won a premiership. Despite coaching changes and long travel schedules, the club remains symbolic of New Zealand's sporting resilience, with each season starting with hope. The team is still waiting for its first Grand Final victory.
The NZ Warriors Through the Years (1995–2025)
1995
The Warriors Join the Competition
The Auckland Warriors make their NRL debut, becoming the first New Zealand-based club in the league and instantly capturing national attention.
1998
Transition to the NRL Era
Following the merger of the ARL and Super League, the Warriors officially become part of the newly formed National Rugby League.
2001
First Finals Appearance
Under coach Daniel Anderson, the team qualifies for their first finals series, showing their growing maturity and competitive edge.
2002
First Grand Final
The Warriors reach the NRL Grand Final but fall to the Sydney Roosters. The achievement cements their status as a serious contender.
2008
Famous Finals Upset
The Warriors stun the Melbourne Storm in one of the biggest finals upsets in NRL history, advancing deep into the competition.
2011
Second Grand Final
The team returns to the NRL Grand Final under coach Ivan Cleary, losing to Manly but demonstrating another impressive campaign.
2018
Return to the Finals
After several rebuilding years, the Warriors qualify for the finals again, signalling a resurgence under new leadership.
2020
Relocation During the Pandemic
Due to COVID-19 border closures, the Warriors relocate to Australia for two seasons, earning widespread respect for their commitment.
2023
Preliminary Finals Comeback
Under coach Andrew Webster, the Warriors reach the preliminary finals, reigniting excitement among fans across New Zealand.
2024
Transition Year
Veteran halfback Shaun Johnson announces his retirement, and captain Tohu Harris steps down after a remarkable career.
2025
A New Era Begins
James Fisher-Harris is appointed captain, leading a refreshed squad into the new season with hopes of returning to finals contention.
Throughout their history, the Warriors team have delivered unforgettable performances that have inspired fans across New Zealand. Their first Grand Final appearance in 2002 marked a defining moment, proving they could compete with the NRL's biggest clubs. In 2008, they produced one of the greatest finals upsets in league history by defeating the Melbourne Storm in a dramatic qualifying final. A few years later, in 2011, the Warriors returned to the Grand Final under coach Ivan Cleary, showing their ability to rebuild and rise again. More recently, their 2023 preliminary-final run under Andrew Webster reignited national pride and reminded everyone why the Warriors remain one of the most loved teams in the competition.
The Current Warriors Team and 2025 Season
The NZ Warriors have a team built around a strong forward pack and a mix of experienced internationals, top Māori players, and young talent. The team remains focused on maintaining consistency, discipline, and defensive strength. The current roster is a blend of power, pace, and creativity, which is why many find them among the most entertaining NRL sides.
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| James Fisher-Harris | Prop / Captain |
| Addin Fonua-Blake | Prop |
| Wayde Egan | Hooker |
| Mitch Barnett | Second Row |
| Tohu Harris (Retired 2024) | Lock |
| Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad | Fullback |
| Shaun Johnson (Retired 2024) | Halfback |
| Te Maire Martin | Five-Eighth |
| Dallin Watene-Zelezniak | Winger |
| Rocco Berry | Centre |
| Adam Pompey | Centre |
| Marcelo Montoya | Winger |
| Luke Metcalf | Halfback / Five-Eighth |
| Jazz Tevaga | Lock / Utility |
| Dylan Walker | Utility / Five-Eighth |
| Bunty Afoa | Prop |
| Tom Ale | Prop |
| Freddy Lussick | Hooker |
| Jackson Ford | Second Row |
| Edward Kosi | Winger |
| Taine Tuaupiki | Fullback |
| Ali Leiataua | Centre |
| Ronald Volkman | Halfback |
| Demitric Sifakula | Second Row |
| Zyon Maiu’u | Prop |
| Kalani Going | Forward |
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