Shaun Johnson thinks the Warriors can win the NRL premiership - and that is why he has signed a new four-year contract with the Auckland team.

With most league interest focused on next weekend's Auckland Nines, it's easy to forget the Warriors, like all clubs, are preparing for an assault on a more prestigious prize.

The Warriors have sought tips from New Zealand rugby sevens coach Sir Gordon Tietjens and former sevens specialist Karl Te Nana have been ahead of the Auckland Nines next month.

Kiwi rugby league international Russell Packer told his dad during a Christmas Day Skype session that "everything is sweet" and he'd be bailed on an assault charge.

He is being hailed as the next Billy Slater but English superstar Sam Tomkins reveals Alfie Langer inspired his dream to come to the NRL and his mum gave the thumbs up to the Warriors.

Talented fullback gets nod for World Cup squad despite fluctuating form for Warriors.

England fullback Sam Tomkins has spoken of his excitement at joining the New Zealand Warriors next season.

Warriors' fans are known for being a loyal bunch and their patience will continue to be tested over the next two seasons.

Neither Matt Elliott nor Elijah Taylor could deny it - the Warriors missed their chance to snatch an unlikely finals berth because of the top two inches.

Sam Tomkins has signed with the Warriors and will be unveiled by the club in the next 10 days.

I got it wrong when early in the season I said Thomas Leuluai was not the answer for the Warriors as a half.

Watch a replay of our live updates of the Rugby Championship international between the All Blacks and Argentina from Waikato Stadium in Hamilton.

Presuming the more likely parts of the last-ditch plan work out, the Warriors will be left hoping one of two giant upsets occurs in the final round of the NRL.