On The Up: Whangārei secures blockbuster Black Ferns v France test

Northland fans get behind the Black Ferns, such as at this Rugby World Cup game against Scotland at Semenoff Stadium in 2022. Photo / NZME

It is more than 10 months away, but Northland event organisers and rugby fans are already excited for the Black Ferns’ test match against France.

The game will be played at Whangārei’s Semenoff Stadium on October 24, 2026, as part of a three-match series against France.

The games will form part of the new WXV Global Series, which will also include a Black Ferns test against Australia in Auckland.

Securing the match is great news for the whole Northland region, said Brent Markwick, chief executive of the Northland Events Centre Trust, which runs Semenoff Stadium.

Fans will be excited, he said.

“History has shown us that the Black Ferns are really well supported in Northland ... We’re expecting a good turnout and great support.”

Markwick said fans got behind the Black Ferns during the Rugby World Cup in 2022 and this year’s trial against the Black Ferns XV, on the same day as the Māori All Blacks v Scotland.

The Black Ferns will also meet France in Hamilton and Christchurch, and it is great to see Whangārei’s name up with these major cities, he said.

“For us it’s really exciting, we’re holding our own.

“It’s a tough environment to get anything, from concerts to sport events, so we’re really pleased to bring this to Northland.”

The Black Ferns, pictured perform a haka before their Rugby World Cup victory against Scotland in 2022, will be bringing their A-game to Whangārei for the match against France. Photo / NZME

Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu said the Black Ferns have a great mix of tests at home and abroad in 2026.

“We look forward to playing in four different venues across the motu, to see as many of our incredible fans as possible.”

The Black Ferns have won eight of the last 13 tests against France, with the teams also facing off in the 2021 and 2025 Rugby World Cup playoffs.

The series against France is a recipient of the Government’s Events Boost Fund - part of the Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism package announced in September.

Tickets to the France series will go on sale in July 2026.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.