The accurate boot of Ben Botica wasn't enough to deny Southland a 24-22 defeat of North Harbour

As All Blacks coach Graham Henry took aim at Wellington coach Jamie Joseph, his players said they couldn't wait to return to provincial rugby.

Auckland produced their best performance of a flat Air NZ Cup rugby campaign but it still wasn't enough to lift the Ranfurly Shield off Wellington tonight.

Canterbury finally cracked a tough Tasman nut today which firmed their hold on second place in the Air NZ Cup rugby championship.

Chiefs rugby bragging rights reside firmly on the east side of the Kaimai Ranges after Air NZ Cup leaders Bay of Plenty outclassed Waikato today.