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Police 'pleased with behaviour' of Kiwis–Samoa fans despite arrests post-match

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Mon, 20 Oct 2025, 11:06am

Police 'pleased with behaviour' of Kiwis–Samoa fans despite arrests post-match

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Mon, 20 Oct 2025, 11:06am

Police arrested two fans and ordered seven to be summonsed to court in the hours following the NZ Kiwis vs Toa Samoa rugby league match last night.

Overall, police said they were “pleased with the behaviour of fans” who attended the match, with minor incidents “swiftly dealt with”.

The tense Pacific Championships game took place at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium on Sunday evening. The Kiwis edged a win over Toa Samoa 24-18.

Samoa supporters descended on Māngere Town Square bearing flags, blasting music and dancing into the night.

A Herald photographer at the scene captured police instructing at least one supporter to remove speakers from the roof of their car.

“Two arrests were made post-match, along with seven people being summonsed to court for driving-related charges,“ police said.

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the Kiwis 24-18 win over Samoa at Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium. Photo / NZ Herald

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the Kiwis 24-18 win over Samoa at Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium. Photo / NZ Herald

“Next weekend’s game will be actively managed by police, both at the venue and the surrounding areas afterwards.”

Police reiterated an earlier message to attendees that they encourage fans to celebrate in a safe and responsible manner.

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the Kiwis beat Samoa 24-18 at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium. Photo / NZ Herald

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the Kiwis beat Samoa 24-18 at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium. Photo / NZ Herald

Early in the evening, police said officers would be monitoring Go Media Stadium and the town centres that traditionally celebrate the league teams.

“As always, we encourage everyone to celebrate safely after tonight’s game.

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the game. Photo / NZ Herald

Hundreds of Toa Samoa fans descended on Mangere Town Centre last night after the game. Photo / NZ Herald

“We remind fans to drink responsibly, have a plan to get home safely and be respectful to other fans, staff and emergency services.”

Police said disorderly behaviour would not be tolerated.

“Police will be on hand to ensure everyone can enjoy their celebrations in a safe and positive atmosphere.”

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