2025 Finalists Whangārei Boys’ High School First XV to Play at Semenoff Stadium

Northland’s premier sporting venue will host an exciting secondary school rugby fixture this May, as the Whangārei Boys’ High School First XV (WBHS) takes to the field at Semenoff Stadium.

WBHS will face Rangitoto College on Saturday 16 May at 12pm, in a highly anticipated North Harbour 1st Division clash. Gates open at 11:30am, with entry just $2 at the gate. Children under five and Gold Card holders can attend free of charge.

The match promises to be a showcase of top secondary school rugby talent. WBHS enters the fixture with an impressive list of recent achievements, including being 2025 North Harbour 1st Division runners-up, current Northland Secondary School champions, and reigning New Zealand Secondary School Sevens champions. The team also features several representative players across Northland and the Blues, along with a player selected for the New Zealand Secondary Schools Touch Team.

Their opponents, Rangitoto College, bring formidable competition. As the largest secondary school in New Zealand, with over 4,000 students, they have built a strong rugby programme and finished third in last year’s North Harbour division.

Semenoff Stadium Chief Executive Brent Markwick says the event highlights the venue’s role within the wider community. "Semenoff Stadium is a true community asset for Northland, and we’re passionate about creating more opportunities like this for our region. Seeing our rangatahi run out onto a premier pitch with world-class facilities is something really special. We want this to feel like Northland’s stadium – a place where our community comes together to support and celebrate local talent."

WBHS Teacher and Rugby Manager Peter Cook says the team is relishing the opportunity. "This is a huge occasion for our players and our school. To compete at a venue like Semenoff Stadium is something the boys are incredibly proud of. Our squad has worked hard to build on last year’s success, and with the talent we have across the team, it’s a great chance to showcase what Northland school rugby is all about. We’re expecting a tough contest against a strong Rangitoto side, but the boys are excited and ready for the challenge."

Spectators are encouraged to come along, bring friends and whānau, and help create a strong community atmosphere in support of local youth sport. Coffee and food will be available for sale at the event.