March 30, 2026

#hakinakina: Tough weekend for Kiwi teams as losses mount across codes

Dale Husband Posted On March 30, 2026

Dale Husband #hakinakina: Tough weekend for Kiwi teams as losses mount across codes

It’s been a challenging weekend for New Zealand sides, with defeats across rugby league, rugby union and football, alongside major coaching shake-ups in the NRL.

The Warriors have suffered their first loss of the NRL season, going down after a strong early run, marking a reality check as the competition begins to tighten.

In Super Rugby Pacific, Moana Pasifika’s struggles have continued, falling 39–19 to the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium, with defensive lapses again proving costly despite glimpses of fight.

On the international stage, the All Whites were beaten 2-nil by Finland at Eden Park, with the side acknowledging they were outplayed and lacked intensity against a well-organised European opponent.

Off the field, one of the biggest stories of the weekend has come out of the NRL, with Manly appointing club legend Kieran Foran as interim head coach following the shock sacking of Anthony Seibold just three games into the season.

The move sees Foran step into the role only months after retiring, as the Sea Eagles look to halt a poor start and turn their campaign around.

Across all codes, the results reflect a tough stretch for Kiwi teams, with questions now turning to how quickly sides can respond and regain momentum.

With competitions heating up and pressure building, the coming weeks will be crucial for teams looking to stay competitive and salvage their seasons.