Auckland to host NRL State of Origin in 2027

A general view of Auckland's Eden Park, which will be the neutral venue for the 2027 NRL State of Origin series.
A general view of Auckland's Eden Park, which will be the neutral venue for the 2027 NRL State of Origin series. DAVE ROWLAND / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

New Zealand will host its first State of Origin rugby league match in 2027 at Auckland's Eden Park, tourism minister Louise Upston announced Monday.

The NRL reached an agreement to take a match in the annual series between Queensland and New South Wales across the Tasman after discussions with the New Zealand government and Auckland council.

Upston said the match is expected to attract more than 10,000 tourists, boosting the economy by NZ$17.4 million (AU$14.8 million).

"I couldn't be more excited to welcome the Blues and Maroons across the ditch for the very first time," Upston said.

"This is a milestone moment for rugby league in New Zealand, but it is so much more than a game.

"With a significant Australian audience, our biggest tourism market, this match will showcase Auckland on an international stage, and put New Zealand on the map as a world-class destination for major events."

Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V'landys said State of Origin was rugby league's greatest rivalry.

"State of Origin isn't just a football match, it's a cultural phenomenon," V'Landys said.

"It's the greatest rivalry in Australian sport, and in 2027 it will be showcased on one of the most famous sporting stages in the world.

"The eyes of Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific and beyond will be on Eden Park, and it will be a milestone moment for the game."

Dates for the fixture are yet to be announced.