Looking Back on 2025 - A Big Year for Waikato Rugby

As we reflect on 2025, one thing stands out above all else, rugby across the Waikato is strong because of its people. From juniors pulling on their first boots to representative players wearing the jersey with pride, this year was about connection, growth, and enjoyment of the game.

Community Rugby in Action

Community rugby continued to thrive in 2025, with thousands of players involved across clubs, schools, and programmes throughout the region.

Junior rugby remained a major focus, supported by the ongoing Positive Vibes Only campaign to lift sideline behaviour and ensure rugby stays fun and welcoming. Skill development also took a step forward with the full rollout of Rip Ruck for second-year Ripper players, helping young players build confidence in a safe environment.

Across secondary schools, targeted development programmes supported both new and experienced players. Hub days, concussion education, and Game Ready programmes helped hundreds of students gain skills, confidence, and a positive first experience of rugby.

Growing the Girls’ Game

Women and girls’ rugby continued its strong upward momentum in 2025.

• 175 girls took part in the inaugural Matamata Waikato Wide Girls’ Competition

• Around 60% were completely new to rugby

• 3 age groups were engaged across the programme

At secondary school level, participation increased with additional girls’ teams introduced, while the U15 girls programme grew to 11 teams, up from nine the previous year. At club level, 14 women’s senior teams competed during the season, supported by improved competition structures.

Supporting Coaches and Referees

Behind every game are coaches and referees giving their time and expertise. In 2025:

• 314 coaches and volunteers attended Small Blacks courses

• 79 attendees completed RugbySmart workshops

• Six region-wide referee development sessions were delivered

This work helped ensure rugby across Waikato remained safe, well-run, and enjoyable at every level.

Livingstone Waikato NPC Team

The Livingstone Waikato NPC Team had a strong 2025 season, with plenty to be proud of across the campaign. Winning the Ranfurly Shield was a highlight, a moment that captured the grit, belief, and mana of the jersey. The way the team went about their rugby, and the pride they showed in representing Waikato, made it a season our community can be genuinely proud of.

Representative Rugby Pride

Waikato’s representative teams once again showcased local talent and strong pathways:

• U19 Boys remained unbeaten and won the Northern Regions competition

• Women’s Development Team claimed their third consecutive Northern Regions title

• More than 240 players took part across Waikato representative teams

These results reflect the depth of talent and commitment across the region.

A Championship Year for FPC

2025 was a special year for Waikato women, with the team winning the Farah Palmer Cup for the third time in history. Strong performances throughout the season and finals victories over Auckland and Canterbury capped off a campaign built on depth, development, and belief. We could not be more proud of this group of incredible athletes. 

Thank You, Waikato

None of this happens without the people behind the scenes. To our clubs, schools, volunteers, referees, coaches, sponsors, partners, whānau, and supporters - thank you for everything you’ve contributed in 2025.

Your time, passion, and pride continue to shape rugby across the Waikato, and we look forward to building even more great moments together in 2026.

💛❤️🖤

Article added: Tuesday 30 December 2025