Black Ferns Confirm Test Match In Ōtautahi Christchurch

The women’s team will host Australia at Rugby Park on 26 September and Auckland’s Eden Park on 2 October, competing for the O’Reilly Cup.

The tests will be the Black Ferns’ first international fixtures since 2019 and will serve as important preparation for the Rugby World Cup next year.

The last Black Ferns test in Ōtautahi Christchurch was on 13 June 2017 against Australia (the last All Blacks test was 17 Sept 2016 against South Africa).

Cate Sexton, New Zealand Rugby Head of Women’s Rugby, said it was great to lock in home tests for the team after a significant hiatus.

“It will be a great occasion to return to Christchurch for a test before what is sure to be a great series decided at Eden Park,” Sexton said.

“Playing at home before next year’s World Cup is vital. There is a wider group of Black Ferns that have been preparing for international rugby since January, they can’t wait to get back out there in the black jersey to represent their families and provincial unions, but also put their best foot forward for World Cup selection.”

Karena Finnie, ChristchurchNZ Head of Major Events, said the test at Rugby Park will be a stellar chance for locals to see the national team in action ahead of the 2022 Rugby World Cup.

“The Black Ferns are the best women’s rugby team in the world, so of course we are very pleased to host them in the city in September,” Finnie said.

“Rugby Park is a unique and exclusive venue that gets spectators close to the action and offers a fantastic live rugby experience.”

Kick off between the Black Ferns and Australia on Sunday 26 September at Rugby Park will be at 4.05pm.

The Black Ferns End of Year Tour dates are still to be announced.

Sunday, 26 September
Black Ferns V Australia, Rugby Park Christchurch
Kick-off: 4.05pm

Saturday, 2 October
Black Ferns V Australia, Eden Park
Kick-off: 4.30pm