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Koru School races to victory in nib Junior $10K Relay

26 February 2026

The Māngere school took home the $10,000 grand prize during halftime of the Blues vs Hurricanes match

A team of fast-footed tamariki from Koru School in Māngere claimed the $10,000 prize at this year’s nib Junior $10K Relay, racing their hearts out at Eden Park during half-time at the Blues vs Hurricanes match on Saturday,16 May 2026.

The winning team was one of eight finalist teams, each made up of 10 runners aged 11 to 13, representing schools and junior rugby clubs from across Auckland, North Harbour and Northland. Cheered on by over ​22,000 fans, the young athletes took to one of New Zealand’s most iconic sporting grounds for an unforgettable relay experience.

The eight teams all showed impressive speed and talent, but it was Koru School that came out on top amid the nerves and excitement of the evening.

One of Koru School’s players who ran on the night, 12-year-old Noah Pulepule, said running on Eden Park was very fun, with the team embracing all the excitement and jitters of the occasion.

“We felt a bit nervous at first, but we liked that pressure,” said Pulepule. “The pressure feels good when you try to win. We were very happy for the opportunity.”

Making a lasting impact on the Māngere community

The $10,000 grand prize is set to make a massive difference for the Māngere school, being put towards new sports gear, first aid supplies, and bringing in a coach to run more sessions and activities designed to build confidence, teamwork and kindness.

Koru School coach and trainer, Pati Alapati said the prize will make a real difference for their young athletes, expanding access to sport and opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.

“These things might sound small, but this really helps keep our kids active. This is going to be a big help for our school and for our community. Thank you to nib.”

Prioritising a healthy legacy for the next generation

The nib Junior $10K Relay brings to life broader insights into how New Zealanders view wellbeing. ​​Research conducted by nib found that roughly three in five (61%) Kiwis believe the most important lesson to pass along to young people is how to live a healthy lifestyle. Approximately one in five (21%) believe wealth is a top priority. The findings of this national survey give credence to the saying ‘health is wealth’.

nib NZ Chief Executive Skye Daniels said initiatives like the nib Junior $10K Relay help reinforce healthy habits early in life.

“We know that ensuring kids are active is great for their overall health,” Mrs Daniels said. “And we appreciate and acknowledge the community that supports the kids and the relay - the teachers, the coaches and the mums and dads who have encouraged them to get out there and enjoy the team spirit and the run. When kids are active, connected, and having fun, it plays a huge role in their wellbeing.”

The nib Junior $10K Relay has now delivered $50,000 in funding to junior clubs and schools over five years, helping kids across the region stay active, connected and confident through sport.

Celebrating our 2026 finalists

While Koru School took home the trophy, making the final eight is a fantastic achievement. nib and the Blues want to congratulate all of the incredible junior clubs and schools who took to the turf and represented their communities:

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Koru School races to victory in nib Junior $10K Relay | nib