NRL 2021: New Zealand Warriors to stay on in Australia

While the Warriors hold out hope of playing home matches in Auckland, the New Zealanders have had to extend their time in Australia.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and the Warriors are staying on in Australia. Picture: Matt Roberts/Getty Images

The Warriors have made a call-to-arms for Australian-based fans to repay the club by showing up to their matches as they work with the NRL for a financial contribution.

The Warriors have extended their stay on the Central Coast until at least June 21 as the ongoing border closes makes it impossible for the team to return home.

They have been hit hard financially after a four-figure drop in membership numbers.

“We will be going to knock on the NRL’s door at some stage because it has really impacted on our financial position in the short, mid and long term,” Warriors boss Cameron George said.

Watch The 2021 NRL Telstra Premiership Live & On-Demand with No Ad-Breaks During Play. New to Kayo? Try 14-Days Free Now >

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and the Warriors face an extended stay in Australia again. Picture: Matt Roberts/Getty Images

“The New Zealand-based members aren’t buying their memberships like normal because we are not home and I get that, but then the NSW people aren’t buying memberships to support us because we might not be here for long either.

“It’s without doubt has a significant impact on our value brand proposition in the market place. When you’re detached from the market for so long and live overseas, it becomes hard. “We are getting support from the NRL and Sport New Zealand. We’re well behind from being even in our financial position.”

The Warriors had originally planned to return to New Zealand for their first home game in more than a year against Manly on April 9. Instead they remain hopeful they will be able to host the Dragons at Mt Smart Stadium on July 2 – which will be the first home game at the venue since August 2019.

The Warriors remain hopeful they will be able to host the Dragons at Mt Smart Stadium on July 2. Picture: Matt Roberts/Getty Images

George hopes fans will show their appreciation for the Warriors’ sacrifice by turning up to support them at their home matches on the Central Coast starting with their round one fixture against the Titans on Saturday. They hope to play five games at home this year.

“We’d love every Kiwi in NSW and Queensland to come and support us on the Central Coast,” George said.

George said there would not be a repeat of last season where players returned home mid-year.

“Everyone is committed to it and buying into it,” George said.

“We have families here this year which is critical and very important for the players and the staff.”

Originally published as NRL 2021: New Zealand Warriors to stay on in Australia