The stage is set for one of the biggest days on the Auckland club rugby calendar, with Auckland University Rugby Football Club and Grammar TEC Rugby Club to contest the 2026 Gallaher Shield Final at Eden Park this Saturday 11 July.
With free entry for all spectators, a 3.00pm kick-off and entertainment for kids, rugby fans and the wider community are invited to experience grassroots rugby at its very best as the Road to the Shield reaches its conclusion.
The final brings together two proud clubs chasing silverware for different reasons.
Auckland University Rugby Football Club will be seeking its 17th Gallaher Shield title, having last lifted the famous trophy in 2017. Earlier this season, University claimed the Auckland Rugby Cup and now has the opportunity to make history by becoming the first club to win both the AR Cup and the Gallaher Shield in the same season.
Standing in their way is Grammar TEC Rugby Club, chasing just its second Gallaher Shield title under the current club banner after its first success in 2015. (This does not include titles won by predecessor clubs prior to amalgamation.) The opportunity to add another Shield to the club's history makes for a compelling championship contest.
Auckland Rugby Club Rugby Manager Joe Blundell said the Gallaher Shield Final is a celebration of everything that makes community rugby special.
"Finals day is the culmination of months of hard work from players, coaches, volunteers and supporters across our club network. From emerging talent to seasoned club stalwarts, it celebrates the depth, passion and community spirit that make Auckland club rugby so special."
Can't make it to Eden Park? Every tackle, try and trophy moment will be streamed live on AucklandRugby.tv, giving supporters the chance to follow the Gallaher Shield Final from anywhere.
For those who can join us in person, entry is free, kick-off is at 3.00pm, and fans can enjoy a full afternoon of finals rugby, family entertainment and the best of Auckland's grassroots game.
Media enquiries: For interview requests, accreditation or additional information, please contact Auckland Rugby Marketing Manager, Bernadette Machell at Bernadette.machell@aucklandrugby.co.nz or 0221522849.
