Northern Region Football are adjusting community football kickoff times so players can catch Auckland FC’s home semi-final in the Isuzu Ute A-League.

“Our football community is right behind Auckland FC, and we want people to be able to play their games, then enjoy the semi final. AFC have added a lot to football here, and plenty of our members will be cheering them on from the stands and clubrooms across our region,” said NRF CEO Laura Menzies. 

All LOTTO NRFL and Northern League clubs were offered the opportunity to reschedule kick off times or matchdays so that players, officials and supporters could get to the match or host member events in their club rooms to watch the game.

NRF is working to bring as many community football kickoff times as possible forward by up to an hour. While ground and officials’ availability will place some constraints, NRF is committed to accommodating as many adjustments as possible.

“We’re all football people, and think you should be able to participate *and* support your team.  We took the same approach during FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, and when Wellington Phoenix played in Auckland,” said Laura Menzies.  

A number of community games have been adjusted already – any team can request their kickoff time be reviewed and by emailing competitions@nrf.org.nz, and we'll do our level best to make it happen. 

Article added: Friday 16 May 2025