New Zealand Rugby League boss pushes for Kiwis vs Kangaroos clash every year

The boss of New Zealand Rugby League wants the Kiwis to take on Australia every year.

Greg Peters says it’s important for the sport, the players, and fans across the Pacific region.

“Playing against Australia is about national pride and keeping the Kiwi brand strong,” Peters told reporters. “The Trans-Tasman rivalry is what everyone wants to see, and it’s good for our game in the Pacific.”

New Zealand have been in fine form lately. In the past week, the Kiwis beat Toa Sāmoa 36-14 at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium, a week after putting 40 points on Tonga at Eden Park in Auckland.

Peters says the performances show the Kiwis could match Australia if the teams met this weekend.

“Ten of our players were missing when we lost to Australia last year. Now we’ve nearly our full squad," he says. "Our forwards, James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota, Joe Tapine, Naufahu Whyte, and Erin Clark, would be a real challenge for the Kangaroos."

Moses Leota powers through the defence, highlighting the Kiwi forward pack that could challenge Australia next year. Photo/Photosport/Fiona Goodall

Bookmakers put Australia as favourites, but Peters says the Kiwis would give them a proper contest. TAB set Australia at $1.20 and New Zealand at $4.50 for a home game in Australia, and $1.45/$2.75 if it were in New Zealand.

Peters wants a yearly clash, even outside the World Cup, and likely around the Pacific Championships or Anzac Day weekend, taking advantage of the NRL’s new broadcast deal.

“The Pasifika crowds have been amazing, passionate, and full of culture. But the Trans-Tasman rivalry is what really excites people,” he adds.

Fans cheer on the Kiwis in a packed stadium, reflecting the passion and culture of Pacific rugby league supporters. Photo/Photosport/Andrew Cornaga

The Kiwis recently farewelled veteran Kieran Foran in front of nearly 29,000 fans. Jahrome Hughes is expected to return in the halves for the 2026 World Cup in Australia.

The Kangaroos will have key players back, too, including Liam Martin, Cam Murray, Xavier Coates, and Zac Lomax.

Peters is confident the Kiwis are ready to challenge the world’s top-ranked teams.

“We want to play the best, and Australia is the benchmark. We should be facing them every year.”