New Zealand to Host First-Ever State of Origin at Eden Park

New Zealand will host its first-ever State of Origin match in 2027, with Eden Park confirmed as the venue for one of Australasia's most fiercely contested sporting events — a landmark moment expected to deliver a major tourism and economic boost for Auckland.

The New Zealand Government and Auckland Council have partnered with the Australian Rugby League Commission to secure the trans-Tasman showdown, marking the first time a State of Origin fixture will be played outside Australia.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says landing the event is a breakthrough moment for New Zealand sport and the visitor economy.

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

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

Major Economic Impact Expected

The 2027 fixture is forecast to deliver substantial economic returns, with projections indicating:

• More than 10,000 Australian visitors travelling to New Zealand

• Over 50,000 international visitor nights generated

• An estimated $17.4 million boost to the economy

Australia remains New Zealand's largest tourism market, and the event is expected to attract a significant broadcast audience across the Tasman.

"With a significant Australian audience, this match will showcase Auckland on an international stage and reinforce New Zealand's reputation as a world-class destination for major events," Ms Upston says.

Hospitality operators, hotels, transport providers and retailers across Auckland are expected to benefit from increased visitor spending during the event period.

One of Sport's Fiercest Rivalries Comes to NZ

The State of Origin series is regarded as one of the most intense rivalries in global sport, featuring Queensland's Maroons and New South Wales' Blues in a high-stakes, three-match series watched by millions annually.

Known for its physicality, passion and sell-out stadiums, the series is a marquee event in the Australasian sporting calendar.

Bringing one of the fixtures to Eden Park represents a historic first for New Zealand rugby league fans, many of whom traditionally travel to Australia to witness the spectacle.

Eden Park Positioned as a Major Events Hub

The announcement comes as the Government advances planning reforms designed to unlock Eden Park's full potential as a premier events venue.

Recent changes to local planning restrictions will allow the stadium to host more major concerts and sporting events without resource consent barriers, modernising its operations to align with global stadium standards.

The reforms are expected to support future bids for international sporting fixtures and entertainment events, strengthening Auckland's competitiveness in the major events market.

Backed by Government and Council Investment

The 2027 State of Origin fixture is proudly supported by:

• The Government's Major Events Fund

• Auckland Council Events

The collaborative approach between central government, local government and sporting authorities reflects a broader strategy to grow New Zealand's major events portfolio and stimulate tourism-led economic growth.

Ticket Details to Be Confirmed

The National Rugby League (NRL) will confirm the official match date and ticketing arrangements later this year.

With demand expected to be strong on both sides of the Tasman, the historic clash is likely to be one of the most sought-after sporting events ever staged in New Zealand.

As Auckland prepares to host one of Australasia's biggest sporting spectacles, 2027 is shaping up to be a defining year for rugby league and major events in New Zealand.