All Stars fixtures confirmed for Hamilton next February
New Zealand will host the NRL’s Harvey Norman All Stars for only the second time with Hamilton’s FMG Stadium Waikato today confirmed to stage the men’s and women’s encounters on Sunday, February 15.
The women’s match-up between the Māori and Australian Indigenous teams will kick off at 2.00pm with the men following at 4.00pm.
It follows the One New Zealand Warriors attracting impressive support in Hamilton this year.
A crowd of 23,344 – a record for a Warriors trial match – attended the club’s final Preseason Challenge clash against the Melbourne Storm in February this year.
The Warriors also took three NRLW matches to Hamilton attracting crowds of 5968 for the clash against the Raiders, 5712 for the Sharks and 7195 for the Broncos, by far the competition’s biggest crowds for standalone games.
The first All Stars on New Zealand soil was played at Rotorua International Stadium in 2023.
The February 15 All Stars next year will be the 15th since its inception and the eighth between the Māori All Stars and the Indigenous All Stars.
National Rugby League (NRL) CEO Andrew Abdo highlighted the importance of Harvey Norman All Stars as a celebration of culture and rugby league.
“All Stars is an incredible opportunity for players to represent and connect with their culture through the game they love,” said Abdo.
“Each year the NRL is given the privilege of celebrating the vital influence Indigenous and Māori cultures have had on our game. It marks a special occasion for players, their families, and the entire community.
“After the success of hosting All Stars in Rotorua in 2023, we are excited to once again experience All Stars in the incredible culture of Aotearoa, with a community that is so integral to our game.
“Hamilton has become a regular fixture in the rugby league season for NRLW players, and it will be a great stage for the 2026 Harvey Norman All Stars.”
Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe said: “It’s fantastic news that Hamilton and New Zealand have secured this special NRL fixture.
“It’s great for our city’s vibrancy and economy, and no surprise given our cultural heritage and reputation for hosting world-class sport.
“With direct flights now connecting Hamilton with Australia, we look forward to welcoming our neighbours and showcasing all we have to offer, from our wonderful eateries and vibrant street art to our exceptional Hamilton Gardens and riverside walks.”
Tickets for the 2026 NRL Harvey Norman All Stars will go on sale later this year.
The matches will be broadcast live on the Nine Network, Fox League, SKY New Zealand and on Watch NRL.
