University of Auckland and University of Canterbury Crowned National Tertiary Volleyball Champions
More than 160 student-athletes from across Aotearoa gathered at CET Arena in Palmerston North over the weekend for the 2026 National Tertiary Volleyball Championships, with national titles, UTSNZ Shield points and university pride on the line.
Across two action-packed days, 16 teams contested 40 matches across four courts. Pool play on Saturday featured best-of-three set matches before the competition culminated in best-of-five finals on Sunday.
The University of Auckland claimed the women's championship with a commanding performance throughout the tournament, defeating AUT in the gold medal match to secure the national title. The University of Otago completed the podium in third place, while the University of Canterbury finished fourth.
The University of Auckland's Destiny Savaiinaea was named the Women's Finals MVP following an outstanding performance in the championship match.
In the men's competition, the University of Canterbury successfully defended its national title, defeating Pool A rivals the University of Auckland in the final to secure back-to-back National Tertiary Volleyball Championships. The University of Otago claimed the bronze medal, while Victoria University of Wellington finished fourth.
University of Canterbury's Jack Medina was recognised as the Men's Finals MVP after playing a pivotal role as setter in Canterbury's championship victory.
Lincoln University's men's team received the tournament Spirit Award, winning the voting by by an overwhelming margin. The award recognised their outstanding sportsmanship, positive attitude and contribution to the championship environment throughout the weekend.
The results have also had a significant impact on the race for the 2026 UTSNZ Shield. Following the volleyball championships, the University of Auckland has strengthened its position at the top of the standings with 38 points, ahead of the University of Otago on 34 and the University of Canterbury on 32. Now at the halfway point in this year’s National Tertiary Championship Series, the contest for the overall title remains wide open.
The championships once again showcased the depth and quality of tertiary volleyball in New Zealand while providing student-athletes with the opportunity to represent their universities in a highly competitive national environment.
UTSNZ extends its thanks to Volleyball New Zealand, Volleyball Manawatū, Sport Manawatu, officials, volunteers, coaches, team managers and CET Arena staff for their contribution to another successful National Tertiary Volleyball Championships.
You can check out the photo albums and replays of the event’s live streams via the links below.
Posted: Tue 14 Jul 2026
