Touch New Zealand was proud to deliver the 2026 Bunnings National Touch Championships in Upper Hutt last weekend, bringing three days of elite competition and high-energy action to the Wellington region.

Hosted at Trentham Park, the tournament featured 38 teams competing across four grades, with 17 provinces represented from throughout Aotearoa. The event showcased the very best of open and emerging talent, with closely fought matches and passionate provincial pride on full display.

When the finals dust settled, it was North Harbour who stamped their authority on the championships, claiming both the Open Men’s and Open Women’s titles in dramatic fashion. Their women edged Waikato 8–6 in a gripping contest, while the men held off Auckland 7–6 in a nail-biting decider to complete a memorable double.

Te Tai Tokerau created history in the Open Mixed division, defeating Whanganui 10–7 to secure the province’s first ever Open National Championship gold medal - a milestone moment that will long be remembered and celebrated in the North!

In the 21 Mixed grade, Canterbury proved too strong in the final, delivering a commanding 11–6 victory over Manawatū to take home the title.

Beyond the on-field action, Trentham Park proved to be an outstanding host venue. With strong local support and a vibrant tournament atmosphere, Upper Hutt provided the perfect backdrop for Touch New Zealand’s premier event.

The championships also marked the beginning of a significant month for the region. The 2026 Bunnings National Touch Championships are the first of two major national tournaments in the Wellington region, with the Bunnings National Masters Tournament set to take place in Lower Hutt this coming week.

Touch New Zealand Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager Pat Spellman said the event signalled an exciting direction for the sport.

“What a start to our back-to-back campaign in the Wellington region. We are making more of an effort to get around more of Aotearoa and ensure more of our membership get the opportunity to have their game played in their hometown.

We were inundated with local support - and that’s what makes our game a true community sport. We’re not above reaching out to our people to ask for a hand, and they are always the first to step up and get amongst it. A special thanks to Bronwyn from Total Touch Wellington for all your assistance spreading the word and rallying the troops to help us make this first event in the Hutt one to remember.”

Final Results:

• 21 Mixed Champions: Canterbury (def. Manawatū 11–6)

• Open Mixed Champions: Te Tai Tokerau (def. Whanganui 10–7)

• Open Women’s Champions: North Harbour (def. Waikato 8–6)

• Open Men’s Champions: North Harbour (def. Auckland 7–6)

With momentum building and another national event just days away, Touch New Zealand’s presence in the Wellington region is set to continue delivering top-tier competition and strong community connection.

Article added: Thursday 05 March 2026