Ten team NRFL competitions in 2027 following club consultation 
We’re excited to announce the launch of a refreshed LOTTO NRFL competition structure for the 2027 season. 

This NRFL and League One format refresh was prompted by changes to the National League changes. We’ve taken the opportunity to review key aspects of these competitions and design this major update, to set the foundation for long-term player development, improved club pathways and a more balanced football calendar for men’s and women’s competitions.

Additional refinement of the Reserves competitions continue, to complete the future NRFL structure. 

Working with clubs 
The process to determine these new formats began by meeting NRF and WaiBOP clubs in February with to discuss how National League adjustments would affect NRFL competitions and get initial feedback on competition structures and regulations. 

From there a working group was established for both the Men’s and Women’s competitions made up of NRF and WaiBOP clubs including Takapuna, Metro, Papatoetoe, Otumoetai, Melville, Onehunga Sports, Western Springs and WaiBOP Federation alongside referee and development staff, was formed to explore the options in more detail, including: 

• Competition formats
• Eligible teams
• Promotion/relegation
• Licensing requirements
• Cross-regional representation
• Reserve teams and coaching license requirements
• Available weekends

The group met multiple times throughout the year, with outcomes presented in recent online meetings, with NRF addressing any feedback that has been received during this process.

We want to thank all clubs and the working group members in particular for their engagement and thoughtful feedback on these proposals.  

New look NRFL competitions from 2027
From 2027, the NRFL will move to streamlined ten team leagues for men’s and women’s competitions. This structure supports competitive integrity, consistent scheduling and more meaningful match days to deliver quality competitions, and will be in place for the 2027 season. 

• NRFL Men’s Premiership – ten teams
• NRFL Men’s Championship – ten teams
• NRFL Men’s Conference – ten teams
• NRFL Women’s Premiership – ten teams
• NRFL Women’s Championship – ten teams

This fully aligned model ensures a clearer pathway between divisions and improves season length, club planning and overall competition quality.

Reserve leagues
Work will continue in early 2026, with club meetings to determine the make-up, composition, and formats of the 2027 reserve leagues for both the men’s and women’s competitions scheduled in Q1. 

With mirrored reserve leagues no longer possible due to several club teams competing in the new winter National Leagues, it’s essential that we carefully design a structure that best supports competitive balance and club needs.

League One 
This competition is unchanged in 2026, before transitioning to a ten team competition in 2027, which will provide more opportunities for clubs to play at a higher level. More information around the make up and composition of these leagues will be developed during 2026, we will keep clubs updated throughout.

Thanks from the NRF team  
We want to wholeheartedly thank all clubs for their engagement and input throughout this process, and the working group in particular for your time and commitment to shaping a league model that supports long-term player development, clearer pathways and a more balanced football calendar. 
 

Article added: Friday 05 December 2025