AUT Crowned Champions at the 2025 National Tertiary Netball Championship

The Christchurch Netball Centre was buzzing with energy last weekend as New Zealand’s top tertiary institutions clashed in the 2025 National Tertiary Netball Championship. Held over two days, from Saturday the 27th to Sunday the 28th of September, the tournament showcased rising stars, thrilling comebacks, and dominant performances — culminating in AUT claiming the national title in convincing fashion.

AUT capped off a dominant weekend with a commanding 46–29 victory over Lincoln University in the Grand Final on Sunday afternoon. They controlled the tempo from the first whistle, demonstrating sharp attacking play and rock-solid defence that Lincoln struggled to break down.

AUT dropped just one game throughout the tournament, falling to the University of Waikato, with strong wins over the University of Auckland and Lincoln University. They then went on to defeat the University of Otago in the semi-finals, before delivering a commanding Grand Final performance to secure a well-earned championship title.

In the battle for bronze, the University of Canterbury overcame a strong University of Otago side 37–32. It was a tightly contested match, but Canterbury’s consistency across four quarters and depth on the bench proved decisive. The win capped a strong campaign for Canterbury, who went unbeaten in pool play and drew only once against Massey.

Final Standings

1st: AUT

2nd: Lincoln University

3rd: University of Canterbury

4th: University of Otago

5th: University of Waikato

6th: University of Auckland

7th: Massey University

8th: Victoria University of Wellington

Spirit Award: University of Waikato

The 2025 National Tertiary Netball Championship proved once again to be a key event in the New Zealand sporting calendar, offering a platform for student-athletes to shine at a national level. With fast-paced play, enthusiastic crowds, and sportsmanship on full display, this year’s edition was one to remember.

As teams head back to campuses across the country, the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and excellence continues to fuel the next generation of netball stars.

Tournament Team

• Sophia Lafaiali'i – AUT

• Arikinoa Shortland – University of Waikato

• Keziah Ripley-Cowan – AUT

• Esther Pratten – Lincoln University

• Samantha Laing – University of Canterbury

• Zalika Clarke – Massey University

• Te Paea Ma’u – University of Auckland

• Stacey Ah Van – AUT

• Siahn Nilsen – University of Canterbury

• Amy Thomas – University of Otago

Full Results: 2025 National Tertiary Netball Championship

Photos: Flickr Albums

Re-watch the Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/@utsnz/streams