Tonga’s national rugby league team is set for a blockbuster showdown against New Zealand at Auckland’s iconic Eden Park in the 2025 Pacific Championships, marking another thrilling chapter in their growing trans-Tasman rivalry.
The highly anticipated clash, confirmed today by tournament organisers, will see Tonga test their might against the Kiwis at Eden Park on November 2.
The Kangaroos are not participating in this year’s tournament.
The two teams clashed last year at Go Media Stadium, where Tonga edged the Kiwis 25-24 in a thriller before a crowd of over 22,000 spectators.
The news typically sparks expectations of waves of red—Tonga’s signature colour—to flood Eden Park, as their vibrant fan base has consistently delivered massive turnouts.
The stadium’s 40,000+ capacity could provide the perfect stage for this Pacific rugby spectacle.
The Kangaroos will miss the Pacific Championships’ third edition as they embark on a three-Test series against England.
Meanwhile, Tonga and Samoa are set to reignite their fierce rivalry in the tournament’s second round at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on October 26.
