A busy year of women's rugby will continue in August with the Farah Palmer Cup kicking off.
While the Black Ferns are in England defending the Rugby World Cup, the country’s brightest developing talent will be on display across nine weeks of fierce competition.
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Defending premiership winners Waikato will kick the season off with an almighty battle against Auckland while championship winners (promoted to the premiership), Manawatū will face a tough challenge against Canterbury.
The first defence of the JJ Stewart Trophy will be when Waikato play at home against Counties Manukau in round two.
New Zealand Rugby Head of Women High Performance Hannah Porter, said the competition will see many new players emerge.
"With all eyes on women’s rugby in 2025, the Farah Palmer Cup will showcase the next generation of developing players.
"Following the record number of women taking the field in 2024, the Farah Palmer Cup remains a crucial pathway, giving players the chance to represent their whānau, clubs and communities on the national stage,” said Porter.
The Farah Palmer Cup presented by Bunnings Warehouse finals will see the Championship Final played on the weekend of September 20/21, while the Premiership Final will take place on the weekend of October 4/5.
All double headers (24 matches played alongside Bunnings Warehouse NPC fixtures,) and all competition play off matches will be broadcast live on Sky Sport, the remaining 12 fixtures will be live streamed by New Zealand Rugby. Sky Open will also broadcast one match per week free to air with a live start.
Farah Palmer Cup presented by Bunnings Warehouse teams:
Premiership:
Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury, Counties Manukau, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū,
Waikato.
Championship:
Northland, North Harbour, Otago, Taranaki, Tasman, Wellington
Full draw can be seen here