Reports from across the ditch that a historic State of Origin rugby league game in New Zealand is all but a done deal.

The Daily Telegraph's reporting that the New Zealand Government has paid $5 million to secure game two of the 2027 Origin series at Eden Park.

The money will come from the $70 million Major Events Fund, designed to attract big events to New Zealand.

Former Kiwis and Warriors coach Tony Kemp says this is a big deal for New Zealand - and the event will likely sell out.

"It'll be sold out within minutes - unless you know somebody, you probably won't get a ticket. I don't think people understand just how big State of Origin is down here."

LISTEN ABOVE