Auckland last night survived a serious scare against winless Hawke's Bay, bailed out by Simon Hickey's boot to leap into second in the Mitre 10 Cup Premiership.

Auckland have loaded up on lineout options and rushed the Ioanes back into action as they plan to lower Canterbury in Christchurch

Kurtis Haiu was once an integral part of Auckland's rugby landscape, writes Gregor Paul.

Nick White is Auckland's new rugby head coach, stepping up from the forwards portfolio to replace the Blues-bound Paul Feeney.

Canterbury seized a narrow victory over Auckland tonight to claim their seventh title in eight years.

The Makos have never beaten Auckland at Eden Park, but they will be buoyed by a second spell last week at Taranaki which ended their losing streak.

Auckland have secured a home ITM Cup Premiership semifinal, but they did it against staunch neighbours Counties.

A rampant Auckland thumped Northland at Eden Park tonight to move second in the Premierships standings.

Relive all the action from tonight's Ranfurly Shield challenge as Hawke's Bay retained the Log O' Wood again Ranfurly Shield.

Auckland today handed ITM Cup leaders Tasman their first loss of the season with a superb defensive display.

Move confirms schoolboy rugby has surpassed ITM Cup in size and importance and is where the Auckland Rugby Union will target much of its future investment.

Auckland secured fourth in the ITM Cup Premiership with a controlled 38-10 bonus-point win over Northland.

The rivalry between Auckland and North Harbour has paled significantly since the infamous Battle of Onewa 20 years ago, with the neighbouring sides playing out a dour, scrappy encounter at Eden Park tonight.

Auckland coach Paul Feeney must be a master of the halftime team talk, though he probably wishes his oratory skills were less essential.

Auckland need more of the second-half commitment which saw them steal victory from Wellington when they face Bay of Plenty in today's crossover clash in Rotorua.

The Blues have secured their spot in the 2024 Super Rugby finals, beating the Brumbies 34-20. Video / Sky Sport