Auckland to Host Thrilling Rugby League Double Headers in 2024

Auckland is set to stage an exciting series of rugby league test matches later this year, featuring both the Kiwis and the Kiwi Ferns. The annual Pacific Championships will include two double-header weekends, promising high-stakes action and cultural celebrations.

On October 19, 2024, the matches will take place at Go Media Stadium, where the Kiwi Ferns will compete against Fetu Samoa, followed by the Kiwis facing Toa Samoa. Then, on November 2, 2024, Eden Park will host another thrilling line-up, with the Kiwi Ferns taking on the Australian Jillaroos before the Kiwis challenge Tonga.

According to NZRL chief executive Greg Peters, these Pacific rivalries offer some of the most compelling rugby league experiences. He highlighted the passionate support from Tongan and Samoan fans, emphasizing the matches as an opportunity to celebrate both teams and their cultures. Peters also noted the importance of having the Kiwi Ferns play in Auckland, stating that it is essential for inspiring the next generation of female fans and players in the sport.

Last year’s Pacific Championships saw a near sell-out crowd witness an exhilarating match, where Tonga narrowly defeated the Kiwis 25-24. With the current champions, the Australian Kangaroos, traveling to the Northern Hemisphere, the title is now up for grabs. The Kiwis are eager to reclaim the championship after winning the inaugural tournament in 2023.

The Kiwi Ferns are determined to bounce back from their previous loss, having fallen to the Jillaroos 24-4 in last year’s final. The upcoming match against Fetu Samoa will serve as a significant test for the Kiwi Ferns, as it marks their first encounter with Samoa since 2020.

The Pacific Championships features two tiers: the Pacific Cup and the Pacific Bowl. Nations will compete in a round-robin format, with the top two teams from each tier advancing to the finals, which will take place on November 9, 2024, at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, Australia.

Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for these exciting fixtures. The match schedule is as follows:

October 19, 2024
Go Media Stadium, Auckland
– Kiwi Ferns vs Fetu Samoa
– Kiwis vs Toa Samoa

November 2, 2024
Eden Park, Auckland
– Kiwi Ferns vs Australian Jillaroos
– Kiwis vs Tonga

November 9, 2024
CommBank Stadium, Sydney
– Grand Finals for both men’s and women’s competitions

The anticipation for these matches continues to grow, with rugby league fans eagerly awaiting the chance to witness their teams in action.