The 2026 NPC season has kicked off with a bang. 

Tonight’s prime time viewing is the next chapter in the storied rivalry between North and South, with Auckland heading across the Strait to take on Canterbury. 

Xavi Taele is starting at centre for Auckland, and joined D’Arcy to preview the clash. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

The 2026 NPC season has kicked off with a bang.&nbsp;
Tonight’s prime time viewing is the next chapter in the storied rivalry between North and South, with Auckland heading across the Strait to take on Canterbury.&nbsp;
Xavi Taele is starting at centre for Auckland, and joined D’Arcy to preview the clash.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

Join Newstalk ZB's D'Arcy Waldegrave as we kick start your Saturday Morning with The All Sport Breakfast.

The All Sport Breakfast

Xavi Taele: Auckland centre previews the NPC clash against Canterbury

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/8966b384-e723-4a87-b91b-b499002d66a5/transcript