Article added: Monday 02 March 2026

Updated Requirements – Iwi Verification

Due to ongoing breaches of our whakapapa verification processes, strengthened measures will be introduced and trialled for the 2026 season.

All players in Rangatahi Tama teams will now be required to:

• Complete official iwi registration documentation as formal verification of their Māori whakapapa

• Submit recognised iwi identification alongside their ANZMRL player registration

These official registration forms are available directly through respective iwi offices.

No iwi verification - no play.

This strengthened verification process will be implemented for the Rangatahi Tama Tournament and the Tuakana Tournament this year, with the intention of rolling it out across all ANZMRL tournaments in the future.

This approach is not about increasing numbers,  it is about protecting authenticity and upholding the integrity of our kaupapa.

Expression of Interest – 16s Grade (2026)

ANZMRL is now collecting registrations of interest for the introduction of a 16s grade in 2026.

The viability of this grade will depend on the number of confirmed expressions of interest received. Should sufficient numbers be reached, the 16s grade will be included in the 2026 tournament calendar.

Further details will be communicated once numbers have been assessed.

Team Registrations

Registrations open Monday 2 March and close Friday 20 March, or earlier if grades reach full capacity.

Teams are encouraged to complete their registrations promptly, as places will not be held once grades are filled.