Touch New Zealand was pleased to host the 2026 Bunnings Youth Touch Nationals in Christchurch last week, bringing together the next generation of touch talent from across the motu for three outstanding days of competition.

The tournament was held at the Nga Puna Wai Sports Complex, a truly world-class facility that continues to impress. Set across three action-packed days, the venue once again proved why it is fast becoming a favourite destination for the touch community. It's always a welcome return to Ōtautahi, made better by the quality of the fields, facilities, and local support.

Touch New Zealand extends our sincere thanks to Mana Whenua of the area for opening the tournament with a powerful and moving whakatau, held on the number one field. It was a special moment that set the tone for the event and truly captivated all in attendance, grounding the tournament in tikanga and acknowledging the significance of this place.

Touch New Zealand Pathways and Events Manager, Josina Vader, highlighted the importance of Nga Puna Wai to the future of the sport:

“Nga Puna Wai is fast becoming a favourite touch venue for our community throughout New Zealand. The conditions of the fields and facilities are always well maintained, and our aim for the future is to do more events here, for sure.”

The scale of the 2026 event was a strong reflection of the growth and strength of youth touch across Aotearoa. In total, 71 teams representing 19 provinces took part, supported by over 80 referees who played a crucial role in ensuring the tournament ran smoothly and at a high standard.

Touch New Zealand Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager, Pat Spellman, spoke to the wider impact of events of this calibre:

“The sheer volume of people on the park - both those who are there to participate and those who have come to support them - is a clear testament to the pulling power of touch events. I look forward to working with key stakeholders to discuss how we can leverage this and make Christchurch a base for key touch events throughout the season for years to come.”

Touch New Zealand would like to thank all teams, referees, whānau, volunteers, partners, and supporters who contributed to making the 2026 Bunnings Youth Touch Nationals such a success.

Congratulations to all teams who took home championship titles.

A full list of our 2026 Bunnings Youth Touch National Champions can be found below.

• 16 Girls: Waikato (def. Auckland)
• 16 Mixed: Wellington (def. Nelson) 
• 16 Boys: Waikato (def. Auckland) 
• 18 Girls: Waikato (def. North Harbour)
• 18 Mixed: Nelson (def. Waikato)
• 18 Boys: Canterbury (def. Waikato) 

Tournament Images, courtery of Kita Silbery-Radcliffe - are available to view and download now. Head to Touch NZ's photo platform now: https://touchnewzealand.pixieset.com/

Thanks to our partners at Bunnings Warehouse, Trillian Trust, Christchurch City Council, SAS, Silverfern Sport, ASICS and Sportway for your ongoing support. 

Article added: Wednesday 11 February 2026