New Zealand 1st XV Champions

The 2026 season has secured a special place in St Andrew's College rugby history, with the 1st XV achieving outstanding success, both regionally and nationally.

The first milestone came when the team claimed the Miles Toyota Premiership title with an impressive 33–17 victory over Christchurch Boys' High School. This result reflected the hard work and commitment of the players and coaches, and the support of the wider community, and established the 1st XV as one of the leading rugby teams in the region.

One week later, the team added another success to its remarkable campaign by winning the South Island Championship. In an exciting game against Southland Boys' High School, St Andrew's secured a dramatic 41–40 victory. The win ended a 35-year wait for a South Island championship and earned the team a place in the New Zealand Top Four competition.

The momentum continued on the national stage with a win against St Patrick's College, Silverstream, in the New Zealand Top Four semi-final. The hard-fought victory booked the team's place in the championship match and left them one step away from making history.

That opportunity came against Tauranga Boys' College in the New Zealand Top Four final. Continuing their strong form, St Andrew's produced a superb performance to secure a 34–24 victory and claim the New Zealand 1st XV Championship title. The achievement marked a historic moment for the College, with the 2026 1st XV becoming the first St Andrew's College team to win the New Zealand 1st XV Championship.

The success of the 2026 campaign reflects not only the talent and dedication of the players, but also the contribution of coaches, support staff, families, Old Collegians, and supporters who backed the team throughout their journey. Together, they helped create a season that will be remembered as one of the finest in St Andrew's College sporting history.