Wesley College First XV 2026: a proud Pasifika rugby nursery keeps winning

There are few names in New Zealand school rugby that carry the weight of Wesley College. Founded in 1844 and now based at Paerata in South Auckland, it is one of the country's oldest schools, and it has long been one of its most famous rugby nurseries. This is Jonah Lomu's old school, and per Wikipedia it counts dozens of internationals among its alumni, including All Blacks and representatives of Samoa, Tonga, Fiji and the Wallabies. In 2026, a new group of young men is adding its own chapter.

A winning season taking shape

Wesley College play in the Central North Island (CNI) 1st XV competition, and according to CNI Rugby the side has put together more wins than losses across its campaign so far. The results tell the story of a team that keeps finding a way: a nerve-holding 29-27 win over Lindisfarne College, a commanding 56-10 result against Francis Douglas Memorial College, a 22-10 victory over Matamata College, and a 15-10 win over Whanganui Collegiate School.

Just as telling was the character shown in a 14-14 draw with Feilding High School on 28 June, a result the school marked on its own channels as a full-time deadlock earned to the final whistle. In a competition this even, points shared away from home against a strong opponent are hard-won.

Recognised on the national stage

That form has not gone unnoticed. Independent ranking site HS Top 200 placed Wesley College at No. 18 in its national rankings this season, a nod to both the results on the board and the school's enduring reputation for physical, expansive rugby.

Behind the group is an experienced coaching team. Per CNI Rugby, the 2026 First XV is led by head coach Lawrence Lawrence, supported by Matiaha Martin and Dr Brian Evans, with Saimealafo Tapaleao as team manager. The school introduced its Brougham Buses First XV squad back in March, describing a group grounded in the college's Māori and Pacific identity and its deep sense of community, as noted on the Wesley College website.

What's ahead

With the mid-season passed, the CNI picture sharpens and the national First XV honours begin to take shape later in the year. For a school with this much history, staying inside the national conversation is exactly where Wesley College wants to be, and this young side has given its supporters plenty to be proud of already.

Follow the team on Instagram at @wesley.rugby and at wesley.school.nz.