Heartland Championship

The Heartland Championship is an annual round-robin rugby union competition in men's domestic New Zealand rugby. First played in 2006, it is the third highest level of competition in New Zealand alongside the Ranfurly Shield. It is organised by New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and since 2021, it has been known as the Bunnings Heartland Championship after Bunnings, its naming rights sponsor.

Following the 2005 National Provincial Championship the NPC was restructured into two competitions. The Heartland Championship would include semi-professional and amateur players, and consist of the bottom twelve populated and performing regional teams. The higher ranked teams would compete in the reformed professional National Provincial Championship.

The Heartland Championship is a prestigious rugby union tournament held annually in New Zealand, showcasing the best of amateur rugby talent from the country's provincial unions. Established in 2006, the championship features teams from the Heartland Rugby Union, representing regions that may not compete at the highest levels of the sport but are rich in rugby tradition and passion.

The tournament typically runs from August to October, culminating in a thrilling final that determines the champion of the Heartland Championship. Teams compete in a round-robin format, followed by knockout stages, with each match offering intense competition and showcasing the skills, determination, and sportsmanship of the players.

The Heartland Championship is not only a platform for emerging talent but also a celebration of community spirit, with local supporters rallying behind their teams. The tournament fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and pride, as players represent their regions and strive for glory on the rugby field.

With its rich history, competitive spirit, and commitment to grassroots rugby, the Heartland Championship remains a vital part of New Zealand's rugby landscape, providing unforgettable moments and inspiring the next generation of rugby stars.