Establishment of the New Zealand Warriors
The New Zealand Warriors were established as the first professional rugby league team from New Zealand to compete in the Australian National Rugby League (NRL).
Inaugural season
The New Zealand Warriors played their first NRL match, defeating the Brisbane Broncos 25-22 at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland. The New Zealand Warriors played their first NRL match, defeating the Brisbane Broncos 25-22 at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland.Grand Final appearance
The Warriors made their first and only Grand Final appearance in 2002, but were defeated by the Sydney Roosters.The Warriors made their first and only Grand Final appearance in 2002, but were defeated by the Sydney Roosters.
Ownership change
Eric Watson sold his majority stake in the club to Owen Glenn, marking a change in ownership for the New Zealand Warriors.Eric Watson sold his majority stake in the club to Owen Glenn, marking a change in ownership for the New Zealand Warriors.Return to New Zealand
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the New Zealand Warriors were temporarily based in Australia for the 2020 NRL season.Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the New Zealand Warriors were temporarily based in Australia for the 2020 NRL season.