NPC Round 4: Can Northland grasp history?

August 19, 2026
225
Ultimate Rugby

The Northland Kauri would make history by winning at One NZ Stadium tomorrow, in doing so winning the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in the club’s history.

Before becoming the Northland we know and love today, the side played as North Auckland, and most recently won the Log o’ Wood in 1978.

Kauri captain Rivez Reihana has a doubly interesting match ahead, as he will prepare in the away sheds against Canterbury in the stadium of his Super Rugby side, the Crusaders.

Elsewhere in round four, unbeaten Hawke’s Bay host the Manawatū Turbos; Tasman and Southland lock horns with both sides off the back of huge momentum wins; and the Battle of the Bridge will light up North Harbour Stadium.

Find all the key match information and team lists below.

Canterbury v Northland

Thursday 20 August

7.10pm, One NZ Stadium

Referee: Jackson Henshaw