State of Origin going international as NZ game confirmed
The Australian Rugby League Commission has confirmed that the 2027 State of Origin game two will be held in Auckland, New Zealand. This marks the first time the historic rivalry will be played internationally.
Why it matters
The expansion of the State of Origin series into New Zealand represents a significant strategic move to grow the sport's international footprint.
- 12.35am . First published August 17, 2026 - 11.22pm
shares Share article State of Origin is going international once more, with game two of the 2027 men’s series to be played in Auckland.
The Australian Rugby League Commission made the announcement on Tuesday morning.
Nathan Cleary of the Blues celebrates scoring a try. Getty Images
Former CEO Andrew Abdo first floated the idea in February , and NRL boss Peter V’landys has now locked it in.
The Queensland v New South Wales rivalry has never been played in New Zealand .
The NRL is planning to make it a days-long event, concluding with the game on Wednesday, June 16.
“State of Origin is truly unique. It creates an atmosphere unlike anything else in Australian sport,” V’landys said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in