We’re excited to officially confirm our Premiership grade placements for the 2026 season, with clubs set to compete across four Premiership competitions that showcase the strength, depth and continued growth of rugby league across the Auckland region.

The prestigious Fox Memorial Shield remains the pinnacle of senior rugby league in Auckland, bringing together the very best clubs, players and community rivalries the game has to offer. For 2026, the Fox will return to an eight team competition, to further elevate the standard of the top grade and ensure consistently high-quality matchups throughout the season. Every game will carry greater significance as clubs compete for one of the most historic and sought-after trophies in New Zealand rugby league.

The Sharman Cup continues to play an important role within the senior competition structure, providing a highly competitive platform for clubs to develop talent & build depth.  The grade remains a key stepping stone for players and teams aspiring to reach the Fox Memorial Shield, while still delivering its own fiercely contested and entertaining competition each week.

Returning in 2026 is the Phelan Shield, reintroduced as part of the refreshed Premiership structure. The competition provides an important opportunity for clubs to maintain strong senior pathways and broaden participation at the Premiership level. The return of the Phelan Shield will also see Premiership teams re-established at clubs such as East Coast Bays and Ellerslie, strengthening their presence in the senior landscape and ensuring more communities remain connected to top-level rugby league.

In the women’s game, the Steele-Shanks Women’s Premiership continues to grow from strength to strength. The competition has quickly established itself as a premier stage for women’s rugby league in Auckland, reflecting the increasing participation, skill and visibility of the women’s game. With clubs continuing to invest in their women’s programmes, the 2026 season promises another exciting chapter as players showcase their talent and passion for the sport.

Across all four competitions, the 2026 season represents an exciting opportunity to celebrate the strength of club rugby league, the dedication of our volunteers and communities. We look forward to another outstanding year of competition and wish all clubs the very best for the season ahead.

 

Article added: Thursday 02 April 2026