NRL Set to Host Historic State of Origin Match in New Zealand
The National Rugby League (NRL) is reportedly planning to host a State of Origin match in New Zealand for the first time. Negotiations between the NRL and the New Zealand government have reportedly resulted in Auckland's Eden Park securing hosting rights for one game of the 2027 series.
First Official Origin in New Zealand
The match at the 50,000-seat Eden Park will mark the first official Origin fixture ever held in New Zealand. This event will also be the first overseas Origin game since an exhibition match took place in Long Beach, California, in 1987. While New Zealand previously hosted a Super League Tri-Series match involving the Kiwis, Queensland, and NSW in 1997, that game is not categorized as an official Origin fixture.
Kiwi Legend Hails Development
Kiwi rugby league legend Gary Freeman, who boasts 46 Tests, described the move as a highly beneficial development for rugby league, emphasizing the sport's significant growth in New Zealand.
"New Zealand needs State of Origin, and I am all for it. It will grow the game significantly."
Freeman anticipated a sell-out crowd for the match, suggesting that demand might even exceed the stadium's 50,000 capacity. He also commented that the inclusion of New Zealand as an Origin host was long overdue.
Context: Neutral Venues and NZ Rugby League Growth
Since 2018, each Origin series has typically included one neutral venue match, with the exception of the 2021 series, which was entirely held in Queensland due to COVID-19. The league had previously allocated neutral Origin games to Melbourne and Perth for each series through 2028, leaving the 2027 slot open.
Rugby league has experienced increased popularity in New Zealand since the Warriors' return from Australia, where they relocated during the pandemic. The Warriors reported an impressive average crowd of 25,382 at their home games last season, selling out nine of 11 matches in Auckland.
Freeman, the first Kiwi player to win the Dally M Medal, stated that the Warriors' performance during COVID-19 demonstrated New Zealand's readiness to host an Origin game much earlier. He noted the strong atmosphere at Warriors games, comparing it to an Origin environment.
Broader Implications and Future Expansion
The decision to host an Origin match in New Zealand occurs amidst ongoing discussions for New Zealand to host a potential 20th NRL team. The NRL received three bids representing New Zealand's South Island during the last expansion application process in 2024, though none were successful. Players like Jamayne Isaako and Jordan Riki have publicly expressed support for a second New Zealand team.
Freeman believes that hosting Origin will provide substantial benefits for grassroots rugby league by enabling more children to watch games live and play the sport.
"Origin will take it [the game] next level"
He added that this will happen after the boosts already provided by the Warriors and Kiwis.
Looking ahead, Melbourne's MCG is scheduled to host the neutral venue Origin game for the 2026 series, with Perth Stadium scheduled for 2028.