The ANZ Premiership is New Zealand's premier professional netball competition, featuring six elite franchises competing for the most prestigious domestic title in the Oceania region. Since its inception in 2017 following the dissolution of the trans-Tasman ANZ Championship, the league has become the primary breeding ground for the Silver Ferns and a showcase for world-class athleticism. This comprehensive guide explores the league's history, the dominant rise of teams like the Central Pulse and Northern Mystics, the tactical evolution of the game, and the 2025 season's groundbreaking rule changes. Whether you are tracking the latest grand final results or looking to understand the "two-point shot" and "fit-for-purpose" standards, we provide the ultimate breakdown of New Zealand netball's high-performance landscape.
The Evolution of Professional Netball in New Zealand
The ANZ Premiership was established in 2016 and commenced its inaugural season in 2017, marking a significant shift from the previous trans-Tasman format. By creating a purely domestic league, Netball New Zealand aimed to strengthen the local talent pipeline and ensure that every franchise focused on developing Kiwi athletes. The founding members included five former ANZ Championship teams—Central Pulse, Mainland Tactix, Northern Mystics, Southern Steel, and Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic—alongside a newly formed expansion team, the Northern Stars. This six-team structure has remained the bedrock of the competition, fostering intense regional rivalries that draw massive crowds and high television viewership. The league serves as the top tier of the New Zealand netball pyramid, sitting above the National Netball League (NNL).
- Founded: 2016 (First season 2017).
- Predecessor: ANZ Championship (2008–2016).
- Governing Body: Netball New Zealand.
- Teams: 6 regional franchises.
- Broadcasting: Sky Sport NZ (Primary) and TVNZ (Free-to-air from 2026).
Founded: 2016 (First season 2017).
Predecessor: ANZ Championship (2008–2016).
Governing Body: Netball New Zealand.
Teams: 6 regional franchises.
Broadcasting: Sky Sport NZ (Primary) and TVNZ (Free-to-air from 2026).
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Inaugural Champions | Southern Steel (2017) |
| Most Successful Teams | Central Pulse & Northern Mystics (3 Titles Each) |
| 2025 Champions | Mainland Tactix |
| Format | Round-robin followed by Elimination & Grand Finals |
Transition from the Trans-Tasman Era
The move away from the ANZ Championship allowed New Zealand teams to regain their tactical identity. While the trans-Tasman era was physically demanding, the ANZ Premiership has allowed for a more "Kiwi style" of play—emphasizing zone defense, space creation, and technical accuracy. Read more in Wikipedia.
Southern Steel and the Early Dominance
The Southern Steel, based in Invercargill, were the undisputed heavyweights of the league's early years. In 2017, under the coaching of Reinga Bloxham, the Steel completed a historic undefeated season, winning every single regular-season match before thrashing the Central Pulse 69–53 in the Grand Final. Led by the legendary Wendy Frew and powered by Jamaican sensation Jhaniele Fowler-Reid, the Steel set a benchmark for professionalism and scoring efficiency. They successfully defended their title in 2018 in a nail-biting 54–53 finish against the Pulse, solidifying their place in history as the first multi-title winners of the Premiership.
- Home Base: ILT Stadium Southland, Invercargill.
- Key Achievement: Undefeated 2017 season (16 consecutive wins).
- Championships: 2017, 2018.
- Iconic Players: Jhaniele Fowler-Reid, Wendy Frew, Jane Watson.
Home Base: ILT Stadium Southland, Invercargill.
Key Achievement: Undefeated 2017 season (16 consecutive wins).
Championships: 2017, 2018.
Iconic Players: Jhaniele Fowler-Reid, Wendy Frew, Jane Watson.
| Season | Result | Winning Captain | Head Coach |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Champions | Wendy Frew | Reinga Bloxham |
| 2018 | Champions | Wendy Frew | Reinga Bloxham |
| 2024 | 6th Place | Kate Heffernan | Reinga Bloxham |
The "Southern Fortress" Strategy
The Steel's success was built on their impenetrable home record at Stadium Southland. Their strategy relied on a high-volume shooting game combined with a relentless man-on-man defensive style that often wore down opponents in the final quarter.
Central Pulse and the Era of Tactical Brilliance
Following the Steel's dominance, the Wellington-based Central Pulse emerged as a tactical powerhouse. Under coach Yvette McCausland-Durie, the Pulse reached four consecutive Grand Finals from 2017 to 2020. Their breakthrough came in 2019, where they defeated the Northern Stars to claim their first title. They repeated the feat in 2020 and added a third trophy in 2022. The Pulse are renowned for their "midcourt engine room" and a defensive unit that consistently produces the league's highest interception counts. Players like Katrina Rore and Kelly Jackson (née Jury) have been central to this era of excellence.
- Home Base: TSB Bank Arena, Wellington.
- Tactical Hallmark: Advanced zonal defense and rapid transition play.
- Championships: 2019, 2020, 2022.
- Minor Premierships: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2024.
Home Base: TSB Bank Arena, Wellington.
Tactical Hallmark: Advanced zonal defense and rapid transition play.
Championships: 2019, 2020, 2022.
Minor Premierships: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2024.
| Milestone | Achievement | Year |
|---|---|---|
| First Title | Defeated Northern Stars 52–48 | 2019 |
| Second Title | Defeated Mainland Tactix 43–31 | 2020 |
| Third Title | Defeated Northern Stars 56–37 | 2022 |
The McCausland-Durie Legacy
Coach Yvette McCausland-Durie is the most decorated coach in the league's history. Her ability to integrate young talent from the Central Manawa (NNL) team into the elite Premiership environment has ensured the Pulse remains a perennial contender.
Northern Mystics and the Three-Peat Aspiration
The Northern Mystics, representing the Auckland and Northland regions, have become the modern standard-bearers of the league. After years of underperformance, they secured their first title in 2021 behind the record-breaking shooting of Grace Nweke. They went on to win back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024, becoming the first team to win three titles in a four-year span. Coached by Tia Winikerei in their most recent championship years, the Mystics are known for their "unrestricted" attacking style and the lethal connection between midcourt maestro Peta Toeava and Nweke. Their 2024 victory was a masterclass in resilience, defeating the Pulse 54–53 in the final seconds of the Grand Final.
- Home Base: The Trusts Arena, Auckland.
- Key Star: Grace Nweke (Current record holder for most goals in a season).
- Championships: 2021, 2023, 2024.
- Player Development: Produced over 50 international representatives.
Home Base: The Trusts Arena, Auckland.
Key Star: Grace Nweke (Current record holder for most goals in a season).
Championships: 2021, 2023, 2024.
Player Development: Produced over 50 international representatives.
| Category | Statistic | Player |
|---|---|---|
| Most Goals (2021) | 852 | Grace Nweke |
| Most Goals (2023) | 825 | Grace Nweke |
| 2025 Player of the Year | Winner | Elisapeta Toeava |
The Toeava-Nweke Connection
The tactical core of the Mystics' dominance is the vision of Peta Toeava. Her ability to feed the ball into the circle from almost any position on the court has made the Mystics nearly impossible to defend against when their rhythm is established.
Mainland Tactix and the 2025 Breakthrough
For years, the Mainland Tactix were considered the league's "quiet achievers," often reaching the finals but falling at the last hurdle. This changed dramatically in 2025. Under the leadership of coach Donna Wilkins and captain Erikana Pedersen, the Tactix claimed their maiden ANZ Premiership title. They finished the regular season with a 7–3 record and overcame the Central Pulse in the Elimination Final before upsetting the defending champion Northern Mystics 58–46 in the Grand Final. The Tactix victory was celebrated across the South Island, marking the first time the trophy had returned to Christchurch.
- Home Base: Wolfbrook Arena (Christchurch Arena), Christchurch.
- 2025 Standing: 1st (Champions).
- Key Players: Ellie Bird, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Jane Watson.
- Strategy: Dominant rebounding and clinical finishing in the circle.
Home Base: Wolfbrook Arena (Christchurch Arena), Christchurch.
2025 Standing: 1st (Champions).
Key Players: Ellie Bird, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Jane Watson.
Strategy: Dominant rebounding and clinical finishing in the circle.
| Game | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Elimination Final | Tactix 57–52 Pulse | Win |
| 2025 Grand Final | Tactix 58–46 Mystics | Win (Champions) |
Rebuilding the Mainland Identity
The Tactix's rise was fueled by a strong defensive core. Jane Watson and Karin Burger formed the most formidable defensive duo in the league, consistently leading the charts for deflections and defensive rebounds, which provided the platform for their 2025 success.
Understanding the New 2025 Rules and Format
The 2025 season introduced the most radical changes in the league's history to enhance spectator engagement and intensity. The regular season was condensed to 10 weeks, with teams playing each other twice instead of three times. Most notably, the "Two-Point Shot" (Super Shot) was introduced for the final five minutes of each quarter, allowing shooters to score two points from a designated outer circle. Additionally, the "Coach's Box" and team time-outs were implemented to bring the ANZ Premiership in line with other major professional sporting leagues.
- Two-Point Shot: Active in the final 5 minutes of each quarter.
- Condensed Format: 10 weeks, 30 regular-season matches.
- Time-outs: Each team allowed one 90-second time-out per half.
- Ladder Points: 3 for a win, 1 for a loss by 5 goals or fewer.
Two-Point Shot: Active in the final 5 minutes of each quarter.
Condensed Format: 10 weeks, 30 regular-season matches.
Time-outs: Each team allowed one 90-second time-out per half.
Ladder Points: 3 for a win, 1 for a loss by 5 goals or fewer.
| Rule Change | Impact | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Point Shot | Higher risk/reward shooting | Increased late-game drama |
| Time-outs | Tactical resets | Better coach-player communication |
| 10-Week Season | Higher intensity matches | Player welfare & fan engagement |
The Impact of the Super Shot
The introduction of the two-point shot has forced teams to recruit long-range specialists. Traditional "holding" shooters like Grace Nweke have had to adapt, while versatile players like Te Paea Selby-Rickit have seen their value skyrocket due to their accuracy from distance.
Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic and Northern Stars
While the Pulse, Mystics, and Steel have dominated the trophy cabinet, the Magic and Stars remain vital pillars of the league. The Magic, historically New Zealand’s most successful franchise from the trans-Tasman era, have undergone a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing young talents like Amelia Walmsley (before her move to Pulse) and retaining veterans like Ameliaranne Ekenasio. The Northern Stars, based in South Auckland, have reached multiple Grand Finals (2019, 2022, 2023) but are still searching for their first Premiership title. Both teams are known for their passionate fan bases and their ability to cause major upsets against the top-seeded sides.
- Waikato BOP Magic: Based in Hamilton; 2012 ANZ Championship winners.
- Northern Stars: Based in Takanini; consistent finalists since 2019.
- Key Rivalry: The "Battle of the North" between Mystics and Stars.
- Standout Player (Stars): Maia Wilson (Former top goal scorer).
Waikato BOP Magic: Based in Hamilton; 2012 ANZ Championship winners.
Northern Stars: Based in Takanini; consistent finalists since 2019.
Key Rivalry: The "Battle of the North" between Mystics and Stars.
Standout Player (Stars): Maia Wilson (Former top goal scorer).
| Team | Best Finish | Current Captain |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Stars | 2nd (Runners-up) | Maia Wilson |
| Waikato BOP Magic | 3rd (Finals) | Ameliaranne Ekenasio |
The Magic's Resilience
The Magic are currently coached by Mary-Jane Araroa and have focused on a "speed and agility" game plan to counter the height advantage of the Auckland and Wellington franchises. Their commitment to the Waikato/Bay of Plenty community remains a cornerstone of the league's regional strength.
League Statistics and Award Winners
The ANZ Premiership recognizes individual excellence through its annual awards. The "Player of the Year" is the most coveted individual prize, often serving as a predictor for Silver Ferns selection. Over the years, defenders like Jane Watson and Kelly Jackson have frequently taken home the top honors, reflecting the league's reputation for world-class defensive play. In the shooting circle, Maia Wilson and Amelia Walmsley have consistently challenged Grace Nweke for the Golden Arm title.
- Most MVP Awards: Jane Watson and Katrina Rore.
- Highest Shooting Percentage (2025): Amelia Walmsley (96%).
- Defensive Leader (2025): Carys Stythe (Interceptions and Deflections).
Most MVP Awards: Jane Watson and Katrina Rore.
Highest Shooting Percentage (2025): Amelia Walmsley (96%).
Defensive Leader (2025): Carys Stythe (Interceptions and Deflections).
| Year | Player of the Year | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Maddy Gordon | Central Pulse |
| 2024 | Ameliaranne Ekenasio | Waikato BOP Magic |
| 2025 | Elisapeta Toeava | Northern Mystics |
Historical Scoring Records
Grace Nweke holds the record for the most goals in a single Premiership game (over 60 goals) and the most goals in a season (852 in 2021). These statistics highlight the dominance of the "Post" shooter in the New Zealand domestic game prior to the 2025 rule changes.
Coaching Standards and High-Performance Pipelines
The ANZ Premiership is not just about the players; it is a high-stakes environment for coaches. The league requires coaches to hold advanced Netball NZ certifications and often acts as a proving ground for future international coaches. The relationship between the ANZ Premiership franchises and the National Netball League (NNL) is crucial. Each Premiership team has an affiliated NNL squad, ensuring a seamless transition for "training partners" who are called up to cover injuries in the senior league.
- Coaching Requirements: High-performance accreditation.
- Succession Planning: Clear pathways from NNL to Premiership.
- Performance Analysis: Use of GPS and video analysis is standard.
Coaching Requirements: High-performance accreditation.
Succession Planning: Clear pathways from NNL to Premiership.
Performance Analysis: Use of GPS and video analysis is standard.
| Team | Affiliated NNL Team | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Mystics | Northern Marvels | Talent development for Auckland/Northland |
| Central Pulse | Central Manawa | Pipeline for Wellington/Central region |
| Mainland Tactix | Mainland Hellers | South Island talent pool |
The "Fit-for-Purpose" Mandate
Under the influence of Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua, Premiership teams have adopted strict fitness standards. Players must meet specific "Yo-Yo" test levels (typically 14.5+) to be considered for elite match-day squads, ensuring the league remains one of the fastest in the world.
Future Outlook: The 2026 Free-to-Air Era
The ANZ Premiership is entering a transformative period. Following the 2025 season, it was announced that TVNZ would take over the exclusive broadcasting rights for 2026. This move to free-to-air television is expected to significantly increase the league's reach and commercial value. As the league continues to adapt to new rules and a shifting global netball landscape, its core mission remains the same: to provide the world's best domestic netball competition while celebrating the unique regional identities of New Zealand.
- Media Shift: Move to TVNZ in 2026.
- Commercial Growth: Increased sponsorship opportunities.
- Global Impact: Potential to attract more international imports.
Media Shift: Move to TVNZ in 2026.
Commercial Growth: Increased sponsorship opportunities.
Global Impact: Potential to attract more international imports.
| Factor | Future Impact |
|---|---|
| Free-to-Air TV | Higher viewership and fan engagement |
| International Imports | Increased diversity of playing styles |
| Youth Integration | Stronger Silver Ferns depth |
Staying Ahead of the Global Game
With leagues in Australia (SSN) and England (NSL) also expanding, the ANZ Premiership must continue to innovate. The 2025 rule changes are just the beginning of a new era designed to keep New Zealand netball at the forefront of the global stage.
Final Thoughts
The ANZ Premiership has successfully carved out its own identity as a fierce, technically proficient, and highly entertaining league. From the early dominance of the Southern Steel to the tactical mastery of the Central Pulse and the record-breaking exploits of the Northern Mystics, the competition has never been more vibrant. The 2025 season's triumph by the Mainland Tactix proves that any of the six franchises can reach the pinnacle with the right mix of leadership and local talent. As the league moves into a new broadcasting era, its role in shaping the future of New Zealand sport is more critical than ever.
FAQ
What is the ANZ Premiership? It is the top-level professional netball league in New Zealand, featuring six regional teams.
Which team won the 2025 ANZ Premiership? The Mainland Tactix won their first title in 2025 by defeating the Northern Mystics.
How many teams are in the ANZ Premiership? There are six teams: Northern Mystics, Northern Stars, Waikato BOP Magic, Central Pulse, Mainland Tactix, and Southern Steel.
What is the two-point shot rule? Introduced in 2025, it allows shooters to score two points for goals shot from a specific zone in the final 5 minutes of each quarter.
Which team has won the most titles? The Central Pulse and Northern Mystics are tied with three titles each.
Where can I watch ANZ Premiership matches? Matches are currently on Sky Sport NZ, with free-to-air coverage moving to TVNZ in 2026.
Who was the 2025 Player of the Year? Elisapeta Toeava from the Northern Mystics was named the 2025 Player of the Year.
Is there an elimination final? Yes, the teams placing 2nd and 3rd on the ladder play an Elimination Final to see who faces the 1st placed team in the Grand Final.
When does the ANZ Premiership season usually run? The season typically runs from April/May through to July.
What is the "Minor Premiership"? The Minor Premiership is awarded to the team that finishes at the top of the ladder at the end of the regular season.
