GWM Game Day Guide: All systems go for 2026

Author: Richard Becht warriors.kiwi
Timestamp: Wed 4 Mar 2026, 10:01 AM

With the sold-out sign posted yet again, Go Media Stadium will be pumping as the One New Zealand Warriors launch their 2026 season with an action-packed game day programme on Friday night (match day sponsor: V Energy).

With gates opening at 5.00pm, the football focus is on a double header against the Sydney Roosters with the New South Wales Cup curtain raiser kicking off at 5.15pm and the much-awaited round one NRL contest following at 8.00pm.

The Las Vegas trip aside, it’s the fourth time in four years that the Warriors have kicked off with a Friday night lights experience on New Zealand soil following the Knights in Wellington in 2023 and then the Sharks and Sea Eagles in Auckland the last two years.

Thise one has been a long time coming, the first opening round clash between the Warriors and the Roosters in 24 years; on that occasion th Warriors won 21-14 to kick-start a 2002 season which would see them win the minor premiership and make the grand final for the first time.

The 2026 season’s first game day instalment will pack an array of entertainment and features around the football contests.

Round 1 - Round 1 - Friday 6 Mar

7:00 am

Warriors

Roosters

Venue: Go Media Stadium, Auckland

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A standout of the NRL halftime show will be a spectacular light and laser show presented by match sponsor V Energy while there will also be a special guest performer followed by One New Zealand Sign Cam and Pūkana Cam.

A special feature will be the introduction of new technology called Cue, which allows fans to scan a QR code on their mobile screens enabling their phones to becomes part of the light show.

Other ever-popular attractions Persil Junior Footy and the Dynasty T Shirt Cannon will also be key elements of the game day mix.

Members and fans are encouraged to travel to Go Media Stadium early to avoid challenges with Friday night traffic and congestion at the stadium’s entry points.